18622, Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18622, Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.17 percent of residents in 18622 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 9.39 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Huntington Mills (ZIP Code 18622)

The crisp mountain air and tranquil landscapes of Huntington Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18622), offer a respite from the hustle of city life. However, for those managing hypertension, the serenity is coupled with the practical reality of healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, crucial for individuals seeking consistent medical care, particularly those with hypertension, and assesses the challenges and opportunities for accessing healthcare in this rural community. We'll consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture for anyone considering a move to Huntington Mills, or already residing there.

The cornerstone of managing hypertension is consistent access to medical professionals. This includes regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist appointments. In Huntington Mills, the ability to reach these resources hinges significantly on transportation. The primary roads serving the area are the winding **Route 239**, the connector to **Route 487**, and the more direct **Route 118**. These roads, while offering scenic drives, can become challenging during inclement weather, potentially delaying or even preventing access to critical healthcare.

Drive times are a critical factor. The nearest hospitals and primary care physicians are located in surrounding towns, requiring travel. For example, a trip to Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. This journey primarily utilizes **Route 487** and **Interstate 80**. Appointments at smaller clinics or doctor’s offices in nearby towns like Benton or Shickshinny might offer slightly shorter drive times, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, primarily via **Route 239** and **Route 487**.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. While there are no fixed-route buses directly serving Huntington Mills, the **Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA)** might offer demand-response services, also known as paratransit, for individuals with disabilities or those who qualify based on specific criteria. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours. The availability of ADA-accessible features on these services is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility challenges, a factor potentially exacerbated by the effects of hypertension.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in more urban areas. Availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This unreliability poses a significant hurdle for individuals with hypertension who require timely access to medical care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for those on fixed incomes, potentially making regular medical appointments financially burdensome.

Medical transport services provide a lifeline for individuals unable to drive or utilize other transportation methods. Companies like **CareTrans** and **First Transit** offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may involve scheduling constraints. While NEMT services are essential for many, they can be costly, and the availability of specialized vehicles equipped to handle medical needs, such as those with oxygen support, should be verified.

The absence of readily available transportation options can significantly impact healthcare access for individuals with hypertension. Regular appointments, medication refills, and timely responses to health concerns are vital for managing this condition. The dependence on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing, creates a challenging environment for individuals residing in Huntington Mills.

For those considering moving to Huntington Mills and managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is paramount. Evaluate the reliability of personal transportation, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the potential for utilizing medical transport. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the impact of weather conditions on travel times is also crucial.

Furthermore, the distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for delays due to road conditions should be carefully considered. It is advisable to establish a relationship with a local primary care physician and to proactively plan for transportation to appointments, including arranging backup options.

The challenge of healthcare access in Huntington Mills necessitates proactive planning. Individuals with hypertension should explore all available transportation options, including the potential for assistance from family members, friends, or community organizations. The establishment of a strong support network can mitigate some of the challenges associated with limited transportation resources.

The implications of transportation limitations extend beyond the practical aspects of getting to appointments. They can also impact mental well-being. The stress of unreliable transportation can contribute to anxiety and exacerbate existing health conditions. The feeling of isolation, common in rural areas, can be amplified by transportation barriers.

The healthcare landscape in Huntington Mills demands a holistic approach. While the beauty and tranquility of the area are undeniable, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully weighed. Individuals with hypertension must be prepared to navigate these challenges proactively, ensuring they can receive the consistent medical care necessary to manage their condition effectively.

In conclusion, while Huntington Mills offers a peaceful environment, the transportation infrastructure presents significant hurdles for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. Drive times, limited public transit, the sporadic nature of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport all contribute to a complex landscape. For those considering a move or already residing in Huntington Mills, careful planning, proactive resource utilization, and a strong support network are essential for ensuring access to consistent and timely medical care. This careful assessment of transportation needs is a crucial step in maintaining health and well-being in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, community.