16505, Erie, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16505, Erie, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.57 percent of residents in 16505 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Millcreek Community Hospital with a distance of 3.54 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 16505

Considering a move to Erie, Pennsylvania, specifically ZIP Code 16505? This area, encompassing a significant portion of the city, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the intricate dance between transportation and healthcare access is crucial for maintaining well-being. This write-up offers a detailed 'Hypertension Score' assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing essential medical care.

The 'Hypertension Score' considers the ease of reaching medical facilities from various points within 16505, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transportation options. This score aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access for those managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent monitoring and treatment.

**Driving Dynamics: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

For residents of 16505, personal vehicle ownership remains a primary mode of transportation. The ability to quickly reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and diagnostic centers is paramount for individuals with hypertension. Several major roadways facilitate this movement.

Interstate 90 (I-90), a vital east-west artery, borders the northern edge of 16505, offering rapid access to healthcare facilities located further east or west. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Pennsylvania Route 5 (PA-5), also known as West 12th Street, runs through the heart of the ZIP code, providing direct access to numerous medical offices and pharmacies. This road, while convenient, can experience heavy traffic, particularly near intersections.

Pennsylvania Route 8 (PA-8), or Peach Street, is another crucial thoroughfare, offering access to a wide array of healthcare providers and specialist clinics. Its proximity to major shopping centers and commercial areas can lead to increased traffic volume. Understanding these traffic patterns is critical for planning appointments and ensuring timely access to medical care.

Smaller roads, such as West 26th Street, provide additional routes to healthcare facilities, offering alternative pathways to avoid congestion on the main arteries. However, these roads might be less well-maintained and could present challenges during inclement weather.

The drive times to various healthcare facilities from within 16505 vary. UPMC Hamot, a major hospital, is generally accessible within a 10-20 minute drive, depending on the starting point and traffic conditions. Saint Vincent Hospital, another prominent healthcare provider, is also within a similar driving distance. Local clinics and doctor's offices are often reachable within a 5-15 minute drive.

**Public Transit: A Network of Accessibility**

The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides public transportation services within 16505, offering an alternative for those without personal vehicles or seeking to avoid driving. The EMTA operates several bus routes that traverse the ZIP code, connecting residents to healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and other essential services.

Route 1, for example, serves the West 12th Street corridor, providing access to numerous medical offices and pharmacies. Route 2 travels along Peach Street, offering access to a variety of healthcare providers. Route 15 provides service along West 26th Street.

The EMTA’s website and mobile app provide real-time tracking of buses, allowing riders to monitor arrival times and plan their journeys effectively. While the EMTA strives to provide accessible transportation, the frequency of routes and the potential for delays can impact the convenience of public transit for individuals with hypertension.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, are available on all EMTA buses. However, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can present challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring more frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an additional transportation option within 16505. These services can provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare-related destinations. The availability and cost of ride-share services can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and distance traveled.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available in the area. These services often provide transportation to and from medical appointments, offering assistance with mobility and other needs. Companies like MedTrans and several local providers offer specialized transportation services. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

The cost of ride-share and medical transportation services can be a significant factor for individuals managing hypertension, especially those with limited financial resources. Exploring available assistance programs or insurance coverage for transportation costs is essential.

**Healthcare Access: A Synthesis of Transportation Factors**

The 'Hypertension Score' for 16505 reflects a multifaceted landscape. While the area offers a range of transportation options, the effectiveness of accessing healthcare hinges on individual circumstances.

For those with personal vehicles, drive times to healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, provided traffic conditions are considered. Public transit offers an alternative, but route frequency and potential delays can impact convenience. Ride-share services and medical transportation provide additional options, but their cost and availability must be considered.

Individuals with hypertension should carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. Prioritizing healthcare access is crucial. This includes identifying the nearest healthcare providers, understanding their appointment scheduling processes, and exploring all available transportation options.

**Moving to Erie: Considerations for Hypertension Management**

For individuals considering a move to 16505, understanding the local transportation landscape is crucial. Researching the proximity of healthcare providers to potential residences, evaluating the accessibility of public transit, and exploring ride-share and medical transportation options are essential steps.

Consulting with healthcare providers and support groups can provide valuable insights into navigating the healthcare system in Erie. Exploring available resources for transportation assistance, such as Medicaid transportation benefits or local community programs, is also recommended.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals with hypertension can make informed decisions about their move to 16505, ensuring they have access to the healthcare services they need to manage their condition effectively. The key is proactive planning and a comprehensive understanding of the transportation options available.