19029, Essington, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 19029, Essington, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.26 percent of residents in 19029 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crozer Chester Medical Center with a distance of 3.66 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Essington (ZIP Code 19029)

Considering a move to Essington, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19029)? If you're living with arthritis, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the ease of **transportation** to rheumatologists, pain specialists, physical therapists, and other crucial healthcare providers, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability. The goal is to provide a clear picture of **healthcare access** in this Delaware County community.

Essington is a small, primarily residential area. Its proximity to Philadelphia International Airport influences traffic patterns. The primary arteries for vehicular **transportation** are Interstate 95 (I-95), the Blue Route (I-476), and Route 291. Route 291, also known as Industrial Highway, is a major east-west thoroughfare, often congested, especially during peak hours.

Driving times are significantly affected by traffic. Reaching specialists in Philadelphia, particularly during rush hour, can be a challenge. Expect a 30-45 minute drive to Center City Philadelphia, home to major hospitals like the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, via I-95. These institutions house renowned rheumatology departments.

Heading south, towards Wilmington, Delaware, is another option. Drive times to ChristianaCare, a large healthcare system, are generally shorter, around 20-30 minutes via I-95, depending on traffic. This could be a more manageable option for some.

Public transit offers an alternative, though its utility for those with arthritis requires careful consideration. SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) provides bus and regional rail service. The 37 bus route runs through Essington, connecting to the 13th Street Station in Philadelphia, offering access to the city's healthcare network. However, the 37 bus can be crowded and may not be ideal for those with mobility limitations.

Regional Rail, accessed at the Eddystone Station, provides a faster route to Philadelphia. The Wilmington/Newark Line offers frequent service. However, the walk to the station from various parts of Essington, and the potential for stairs at some stations, could pose challenges. Accessibility features, such as elevators and ramps, vary by station. Always verify ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance for specific stations before relying on this mode of **transportation**.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Essington. They offer a convenient, door-to-door option. However, costs can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or inclement weather. Booking in advance is advisable.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with disabilities. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and can be a more expensive option than ride-sharing. However, they provide specialized assistance and can be a valuable resource for those with significant mobility limitations.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation facilities are essential for managing arthritis. Several facilities are located within a reasonable driving distance of Essington. These include facilities in nearby towns like Ridley Park and Prospect Park. Drive times to these locations are typically 10-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Pain management clinics are also available in the surrounding area. Finding a clinic within a reasonable distance is crucial for ongoing care. Researching clinics and their specific services, including their acceptance of your insurance, is essential before **moving to Essington**.

Pharmacy access is another important consideration. Several pharmacies, including national chains like CVS and Walgreens, are located within Essington and nearby towns. This ensures convenient access to medications prescribed for arthritis.

For those considering **moving to Essington**, understanding the practicalities of healthcare access is crucial. The **transportation** landscape presents a mixed bag. While car travel offers the most flexibility, traffic congestion and parking challenges in Philadelphia must be considered. Public transit provides a more affordable option, but its accessibility and comfort levels may be limiting for some. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenient alternatives, but at a higher cost.

The "Arthritis Score" for Essington is moderate. While healthcare providers are accessible, the reliance on driving and the potential for traffic delays, along with the limitations of public transit for those with mobility issues, lower the score. Careful planning, including researching the locations and accessibility features of healthcare providers, and exploring all available **transportation** options, is essential for successful healthcare management.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and circumstances. Factors like the severity of arthritis, the frequency of appointments, and personal preferences will influence the optimal approach to healthcare access. Thorough research, including visiting potential healthcare providers and assessing the practicality of various **transportation** methods, is highly recommended before making a decision about **moving to Essington**. The goal is to ensure that you can maintain access to the care you need to manage your arthritis effectively.