16507, Erie, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16507, Erie, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

90.08 percent of residents in 16507 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hamot with a distance of 0.49 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Erie, PA (ZIP Code 16507)

Considering a move to Erie, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16507) and concerned about managing hypertension? This write-up provides a detailed assessment of transportation options and healthcare access, crucial factors influencing your ability to effectively manage this condition. We’ll explore the realities of commuting to medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary care. Understanding these dynamics is paramount when evaluating your healthcare needs in a new environment.

Erie, a city nestled on the shores of Lake Erie, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The city's layout, coupled with its weather patterns, directly impacts how residents access healthcare. This analysis will delve into the specifics of 16507, providing a realistic picture of your daily commute to medical appointments.

The core of our analysis centers on the transportation infrastructure. The major thoroughfare in 16507 is Peach Street, a primary artery for commercial activity and residential neighborhoods. Other key roads include West 26th Street, connecting various residential areas, and West 12th Street, providing access to downtown Erie and its associated healthcare facilities. Interstate 90, a significant east-west highway, runs north of 16507, providing rapid access to destinations outside the immediate area.

Drive times are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. Assuming a typical weekday morning, a drive from the heart of 16507 to UPMC Hamot, a major healthcare provider, could take between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions along Peach Street and West 12th Street. Rush hour congestion, particularly around the intersection of Peach Street and 26th Street, can significantly extend these times. Driving to Saint Vincent Hospital, another prominent medical facility, would likely take a similar amount of time, relying on the same road network.

The availability of public transit, provided by the Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA), is another crucial factor. The EMTA operates a network of bus routes throughout the city. Route 6, for instance, runs along Peach Street, offering a direct connection to many healthcare facilities. Route 10, traversing West 26th Street, provides access to various medical offices and clinics. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, may be limited.

For individuals with mobility limitations, ADA-accessible buses are available on all EMTA routes. These buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring ease of access for passengers using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. However, the reliance on public transit can add considerable time to your commute, potentially doubling or tripling the travel time compared to driving. This increased travel time can significantly impact your Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals requiring frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Erie. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit, especially for those who may not own a car or prefer not to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further increase the expense. The availability of ride-sharing, while offering flexibility, may not always be a reliable or affordable option.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, provide door-to-door transportation for medical appointments. They often include assistance with mobility and may be covered by insurance. While offering the most convenient option, medical transport is typically reserved for those with significant mobility challenges or specific medical requirements.

Healthcare access is not merely about physical proximity to medical facilities; it also encompasses the availability of specialized care. UPMC Hamot and Saint Vincent Hospital offer a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology, endocrinology, and nephrology, all essential for managing hypertension. However, the wait times for appointments with specialists can vary, potentially delaying access to crucial care.

The location of pharmacies within 16507 is another critical element. Access to medication is paramount in managing hypertension. Numerous pharmacies, including national chains and local independent pharmacies, are located within the ZIP code, ensuring convenient access to prescription refills.

The "Hypertension Score" for 16507, therefore, is a complex assessment. While the presence of major healthcare facilities is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles or public transit significantly impacts the ease of access. The drive times, especially during peak hours, and the potential limitations of public transit, can pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport provides alternative options, but at a potential cost.

Moving to Erie, PA, and managing hypertension requires careful consideration of these transportation and healthcare access factors. The decision should be based on your individual needs, mobility, and financial resources. Evaluating the proximity of your residence to healthcare facilities, understanding the public transit routes and schedules, and assessing the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport are crucial steps in determining your personal Hypertension Score.

The overall picture suggests that while healthcare access in 16507 is generally good, the transportation infrastructure presents certain challenges. Careful planning and consideration of your individual needs are essential for successfully managing hypertension in this environment. Your ability to navigate the transportation landscape and access healthcare services will ultimately determine your quality of life.