18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18619, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.45 percent of residents in 18619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center Muncy with a distance of 15.47 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18619**

This analysis delves into the accessibility of healthcare for residents of Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 18619, with a particular focus on individuals managing hypertension. The goal is to assess the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering various transportation options. This 'Hypertension Score' considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access in this rural community.

Hillsgrove, nestled in Sullivan County, presents unique challenges. Its remote location and limited public transportation options significantly impact healthcare access, especially for those with chronic conditions like hypertension, requiring regular medical attention and medication refills. The ability to quickly and reliably reach a doctor's office or pharmacy is critical for managing this condition effectively.

**Drive Time Analysis**

The primary mode of transportation for most Hillsgrove residents is personal vehicles. Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor in the 'Hypertension Score'. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in surrounding towns, necessitating travel on several highways and roads. The main arteries for accessing healthcare are Pennsylvania Route 42 and U.S. Route 220.

For residents needing routine check-ups or medication refills, the closest primary care physicians and pharmacies are likely in Dushore, approximately a 20-30 minute drive. This journey typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 42, a winding road that can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during winter.

More specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology appointments, often requires travel to Williamsport, a larger city about an hour's drive away. This trip involves using Pennsylvania Route 42 to U.S. Route 220, a highway with varying speed limits and potential traffic delays. The extended travel time to specialists can be a significant burden for those managing hypertension, increasing the risk of missed appointments and delayed treatment.

The drive times, while manageable for some, can be a challenge for elderly residents, individuals with mobility limitations, or those without personal vehicles. The 'Hypertension Score' must reflect this reality, acknowledging the potential for increased stress and reduced adherence to medical regimens due to transportation difficulties.

**Public Transportation Limitations**

Public transportation options in Hillsgrove are severely limited. Sullivan County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transportation poses a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

While there are no fixed-route buses, the county offers a demand-response transportation service, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, however, requires advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for appointments outside of regular business hours. This service may have ADA features.

The infrequent and unreliable nature of this demand-response service makes it an inadequate solution for individuals requiring frequent medical visits or facing urgent health issues. The 'Hypertension Score' must reflect the significant limitations of public transportation in Hillsgrove, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region but may have limited presence in rural areas like Hillsgrove. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-share services for medical appointments can be risky, as delays or cancellations can disrupt treatment plans.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services offer a more reliable and specialized option for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments.

The 'Hypertension Score' will consider the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-share and medical transport services, recognizing their potential to improve healthcare access while acknowledging their limitations.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Hillsgrove**

For individuals considering moving to Hillsgrove, the 'Hypertension Score' is a critical factor to consider. Those managing hypertension must carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare services before relocating. The remote location and limited transportation options can significantly impact their ability to receive timely and consistent medical care.

Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive, access reliable transportation, and navigate potential delays in reaching medical facilities. They should also research the availability of local pharmacies and the ease of obtaining prescription refills.

The 'Hypertension Score' serves as a vital tool for potential residents, providing a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in Hillsgrove. It empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, ensuring they can effectively manage their hypertension in this rural environment.

**Conclusion**

The 'Hypertension Score' for ZIP code 18619 reflects the challenges faced by residents in accessing healthcare, particularly those managing hypertension. The remote location, limited public transportation, and reliance on personal vehicles create significant barriers to timely and consistent medical care.

While ride-share and medical transport services offer some solutions, their availability and cost can be prohibitive. The 'Hypertension Score' emphasizes the need for strategies to improve healthcare access in Hillsgrove, such as expanding public transportation options, promoting telehealth services, and supporting community-based healthcare initiatives.

By understanding the transportation and healthcare access landscape, residents and prospective movers can make informed decisions and advocate for improvements that will enhance the health and well-being of the Hillsgrove community. This score is a reflection of the real-world challenges that residents face in navigating the landscape of healthcare in a rural setting.