18632, Mildred, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18632, Mildred, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.86 percent of residents in 18632 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 28.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center Muncy with a distance of 27.62 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mildred, PA (ZIP Code 18632)

The quaint village of Mildred, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Sullivan County (ZIP Code 18632), presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. Understanding the intricacies of transportation is paramount, especially for individuals managing hypertension, a condition demanding consistent medical attention and readily available access to care. This write-up explores the "Hypertension Score" for Mildred, evaluating the ease and challenges of reaching essential healthcare services, including physicians, pharmacies, and specialized care, focusing on transportation options available.

The Hypertension Score, a hypothetical metric, considers factors like travel time, mode of transportation, accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations, and the frequency of available services. A high score indicates excellent healthcare access, while a low score suggests significant barriers. For Mildred, the score will likely reflect the challenges of rural living, where distances are vast, and options are limited.

**Driving Distances and Roadways:**

For residents of Mildred, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in surrounding towns and cities. The drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a comprehensive hospital, involves a journey of approximately 60 miles, primarily via **US-220 South** and then onto **I-80 East**. This drive, under ideal conditions, can take around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Closer options include the Guthrie Clinic in Sayre, about 40 miles away. The route typically involves **PA-487 South** to **US-220 North**. The drive time is around 50 minutes. Smaller, more local clinics and physician offices might exist in nearby towns like Dushore or Laporte, but their scope of services could be limited. These shorter trips would likely utilize local roads like **PA-87** and **PA-180**.

The driving experience in this area can be impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks. Moreover, the winding, mountainous roads can be challenging for drivers unfamiliar with the terrain. This necessitates careful planning and consideration of weather forecasts before any medical appointment.

**Public Transportation and Accessibility:**

Public transportation options in Mildred and surrounding areas are extremely limited. Sullivan County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The lack of a robust public transit network presents a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with mobility limitations. This is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score, as regular check-ups and medication refills are crucial for managing the condition.

While there is no formal public bus service, the county might offer a demand-response transportation service, potentially through the **Sullivan County Transportation Authority**. These services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours. The availability and accessibility of these services, particularly for individuals with disabilities, would need to be carefully assessed. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of any such service is paramount, ensuring wheelchair accessibility and other necessary accommodations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are unlikely to be readily available in Mildred. The rural nature of the area and the limited population density make it economically unfeasible for these companies to operate. This further exacerbates the transportation challenges.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are an essential component of healthcare access. Several specialized medical transport companies might serve the area. These companies often provide door-to-door service, assisting patients with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability might be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments.

Companies like **CareRide** or local ambulance services, could be options. The cost and availability of these services significantly impact the Hypertension Score. The ability to secure timely and affordable medical transportation is crucial for individuals with hypertension, who require consistent medical care.

**Pharmacies and Medication Access:**

Access to pharmacies is another crucial aspect of the Hypertension Score. Residents of Mildred may need to travel to nearby towns like Dushore or Eagles Mere to access pharmacies. The distance to the nearest pharmacy impacts the ease of medication refills and access to pharmacist consultations.

The availability of mail-order pharmacies can be a valuable option, especially for individuals with transportation challenges. However, this requires careful planning and coordination to ensure timely medication delivery. The ability to obtain medications promptly and affordably is a key factor in managing hypertension effectively.

**The Impact on the Hypertension Score:**

The Hypertension Score for Mildred, PA (18632) is likely to be moderate to low. The primary factor driving this score is the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of a reliable public transit system, and the potential lack of readily available ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access.

The long distances to medical facilities, the potential for weather-related travel delays, and the cost of medical transportation services all contribute to the challenges. The limited availability of pharmacies and the need to travel for medication refills further complicate the situation.

**Moving to Mildred and Healthcare Considerations:**

For individuals considering moving to Mildred, especially those managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should investigate the availability of medical providers, pharmacies, and transportation options.

They should also consider the potential impact of weather conditions on travel and the need for emergency preparedness. Planning for healthcare needs, including establishing relationships with healthcare providers and ensuring access to medication, is crucial before making the move.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating healthcare in Mildred, PA (18632), presents unique challenges. The Hypertension Score reflects the realities of rural living, where transportation limitations significantly impact healthcare access. While the beauty and tranquility of the area are undeniable, individuals managing hypertension must carefully consider the transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare services. Proactive planning, including exploring medical transportation options and establishing relationships with healthcare providers, is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being in this rural community. The ability to overcome these transportation hurdles is essential for ensuring that residents of Mildred can effectively manage their hypertension and live healthy lives.