16503, Erie, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16503, Erie, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 16503 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Vincent Hospital with a distance of 1.30 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 16503

Understanding healthcare access, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension, is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Erie, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16503). This write-up details the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, offering a "Hypertension Score" based on commute times and available options. The score reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services, factoring in the specific challenges faced by individuals managing hypertension, such as the need for regular check-ups and medication refills.

The 16503 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Erie, a city grappling with transportation challenges and a growing need for accessible healthcare. The presence of the Interstate 90 (I-90) and Interstate 79 (I-79) corridors provides critical arteries for long-distance travel, but their impact on local healthcare access is nuanced. The primary challenge lies in the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing services.

**Driving the Landscape:**

For many residents, the journey to healthcare begins behind the wheel. The major hospitals and clinics, including UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital, are strategically located, but travel times vary significantly based on location within 16503 and the time of day.

Traveling from the eastern edge of the ZIP code, near the Presque Isle State Park, to UPMC Hamot (located near the intersection of State Street and East 26th Street) typically involves navigating surface streets, such as East 12th Street and Peach Street. This journey, during peak traffic hours, can take up to 25 minutes, impacting appointment adherence for those with hypertension. The western edge of the ZIP code, around West 38th Street, offers a shorter commute, potentially around 15 minutes, via West 38th Street and Peach Street.

The journey to Saint Vincent Hospital, located near the intersection of 26th and Myrtle Streets, is similar, relying on Peach Street and State Street. The time varies depending on the starting point within 16503, but it is generally comparable to the Hamot commute.

Accessing smaller clinics and specialized medical practices, often scattered throughout the ZIP code, can further complicate the transportation puzzle. The reliance on Peach Street, a major commercial thoroughfare, often leads to congestion, particularly during rush hour. The lack of dedicated bus lanes exacerbates this issue, especially for individuals with hypertension who may experience fatigue or other health-related limitations.

**Public Transit's Role:**

The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides public transportation within the city. Several bus routes traverse the 16503 ZIP code, offering a potential alternative to driving.

Route 10 (Peach Street) is a critical route, serving the major commercial corridor and providing access to several medical facilities. However, the frequency of the route, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a barrier. The average wait time for a bus can be up to 30 minutes, which is a concern for individuals needing timely access to healthcare.

Route 15 (East 12th Street) and Route 16 (West 38th Street) provide access to the eastern and western portions of the ZIP code, connecting to various medical facilities. However, these routes may require transfers, increasing travel time and complexity.

The EMTA offers ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial feature for those with hypertension who may experience mobility limitations. However, the availability of these accessible buses on all routes and at all times is not guaranteed, which can create transportation challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Erie. They provide an alternative to driving and public transit, offering on-demand transportation. The cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing is also subject to driver availability, which can be limited during certain hours or in specific areas of the ZIP code.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, are also available. These services are often reserved for individuals with specific medical needs or those requiring assistance with mobility. The cost of medical transportation is typically higher than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Hypertension Score Calculation:**

The Hypertension Score for 16503 is calculated based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Average commute time to major hospitals and clinics during peak hours (weighted heavily).
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of EMTA routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Cost and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** Availability and cost of specialized medical transport.

**Score Interpretation:**

* **High Score (Poor Access):** Long drive times, limited public transit options, unreliable ride-sharing, and high cost of medical transport.
* **Medium Score (Moderate Access):** Moderate drive times, some public transit options, and variable ride-sharing availability.
* **Low Score (Good Access):** Short drive times, frequent public transit, reliable ride-sharing, and affordable medical transport.

**Challenges and Recommendations:**

The 16503 ZIP code presents several challenges for individuals with hypertension. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing can create barriers to healthcare access.

To improve the Hypertension Score, several recommendations are suggested:

* **Enhance EMTA Services:** Increase the frequency and route coverage of EMTA buses, particularly on routes serving medical facilities.
* **Improve Infrastructure:** Implement dedicated bus lanes on Peach Street and other major thoroughfares.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Subsidies:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments.
* **Expand Medical Transportation Options:** Increase the availability and affordability of medical transportation services.
* **Promote Telehealth:** Encourage the use of telehealth services for routine check-ups and medication refills.

**Conclusion:**

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right, and the transportation landscape in 16503 significantly impacts the ability of individuals with hypertension to manage their condition effectively. By understanding the transportation challenges and implementing targeted solutions, the community can improve healthcare access, fostering a healthier environment for all residents, and making Erie a more welcoming destination for those moving to the area. The Hypertension Score provides a valuable framework for assessing and addressing these critical needs.