18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18845, Stevensville, Pennsylvania is 12 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.05 percent of residents in 18845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Packer Hospital with a distance of 21.73 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Accessing Healthcare in Stevensville (ZIP Code 18845)

The journey to manage hypertension in Stevensville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18845), is a complex one, interwoven with the fabric of **transportation** options and the availability of **healthcare access**. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive “Hypertension Score,” a subjective assessment of the ease with which residents can access vital medical care, considering factors beyond just the presence of providers. For individuals considering **moving to Stevensville**, understanding these nuances is crucial for maintaining their health.

The score will weigh factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. It acknowledges the geographical realities of the region, including the presence of mountainous terrain and limited infrastructure. We'll paint a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities that shape the healthcare landscape in this rural community.

**The Foundation: Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of **transportation** in Stevensville is, undoubtedly, the automobile. Drive times to healthcare facilities form the cornerstone of our assessment. The nearest hospital, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, is located in Sayre, Pennsylvania, approximately 20 miles away. The drive, primarily via US-220 North, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times, adding to the stress for those managing hypertension.

Other options include the Towanda Memorial Hospital, roughly 15 miles away, accessible via PA-414 and US-220 South. This drive typically takes 20 to 30 minutes. These facilities offer a range of services, including cardiology and internal medicine, essential for hypertension management. However, these distances, while manageable, represent a time commitment that can be challenging for those requiring frequent check-ups or experiencing acute health events.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians may be available in neighboring towns like Wyalusing and Towanda, potentially reducing drive times. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology, is often limited in these smaller settings, necessitating travel to the larger hospitals.

**Public Transit: A Sparse Network**

Public **transportation** options in Stevensville are severely limited. The lack of a robust public transit system poses a significant barrier to **healthcare access**, especially for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to health conditions. There is no established bus route that directly serves Stevensville. This reliance on private vehicles or alternative **transportation** options places a considerable burden on individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The absence of public transit underscores the need for creative solutions to improve **healthcare access**. Exploring options like community-based shuttle services or partnerships with local volunteer organizations could help bridge the gap and provide vital **transportation** assistance. The lack of ADA-compliant features in any existing public transit further limits options for those with mobility issues.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Patchwork of Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not guaranteed, especially in rural areas like Stevensville. Availability may be limited, and wait times can be significant, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for routine medical appointments is not a reliable strategy.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers, offer specialized assistance for those who cannot drive themselves. These services are essential for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transport to and from dialysis appointments or other specialized treatments. However, the cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, and availability may be limited, especially during peak demand.

**Assessing the Score: A Subjective Perspective**

Considering all these factors, the “Hypertension Score” for Stevensville, ZIP code 18845, is moderately challenging. While the drive times to major hospitals are not excessively long, the lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services significantly impact **healthcare access**. The score reflects the need for residents to rely heavily on personal vehicles or navigate a complex network of alternative **transportation** options to receive necessary medical care.

The score also acknowledges the importance of proactive health management. Individuals with hypertension in Stevensville need to prioritize regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. They must also plan for potential **transportation** challenges, especially during adverse weather conditions.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For individuals considering **moving to Stevensville**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and **healthcare access** requirements is crucial. They should research the availability of local medical providers, understand the drive times to hospitals and clinics, and explore potential **transportation** assistance programs.

The local community could benefit from initiatives that improve **healthcare access**. These could include:

* **Advocating for increased public transit options:** Even a limited bus route connecting Stevensville to nearby towns could significantly improve **healthcare access**.
* **Supporting ride-sharing initiatives:** Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized **transportation** for medical appointments could be beneficial.
* **Expanding medical **transportation** services:** Increasing the availability of NEMT services could provide crucial assistance to those who cannot drive.
* **Promoting telehealth:** Encouraging the use of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and medication management.

**Conclusion**

The "Hypertension Score" for Stevensville, Pennsylvania, highlights the complex interplay between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While the community offers access to medical facilities, the limitations in public transit and the reliance on private vehicles pose challenges for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding these challenges is essential for residents and those considering **moving to Stevensville**. Addressing these challenges through community initiatives and individual planning can improve the quality of life for all residents and ensure that those with hypertension receive the timely and appropriate care they need.