16546, Erie, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16546, Erie, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

92.26 percent of residents in 16546 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Vincent Hospital with a distance of 1.42 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 16546

Considering a move to Erie, Pennsylvania, and specifically ZIP code 16546? If you're managing hypertension, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up, a “Hypertension Score” assessment, delves into the transportation landscape surrounding medical appointments, crucial for consistent care. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility within and around 16546.

The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably is a cornerstone of hypertension management. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and the potential for urgent care necessitate a well-defined transportation strategy. This analysis considers the practicalities of getting from your home in 16546 to the most relevant healthcare providers, focusing on the availability and efficiency of various transportation methods.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roadways**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents. Within 16546, the ease of navigating to healthcare facilities hinges on the efficiency of local roadways. Presuming a starting point within the zip code, let's consider the primary arteries: Interstate 90 (I-90), a major east-west thoroughfare, offers quick access to hospitals and specialized clinics located along its path.

Traveling east on I-90, you can reach UPMC Hamot, a major medical center, in approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This route is generally straightforward, but rush hour congestion, particularly near the city center, can add significant time. Heading west on I-90 also provides access to healthcare, though options are somewhat limited.

Pennsylvania Route 5 (PA-5), also known as West Ridge Road, serves as a critical east-west connector within the city. It provides access to several primary care physicians and smaller clinics closer to 16546. Driving along PA-5 offers a more localized approach, potentially reducing travel time for routine appointments.

Pennsylvania Route 8 (PA-8), or Peach Street, is a major north-south thoroughfare. It intersects with several key healthcare providers. Traveling south on PA-8, you can reach Millcreek Community Hospital in about 10-15 minutes. This hospital offers a range of services, including cardiology and emergency care, making it a vital resource for those managing hypertension.

Finally, local roads like Zimmerly Road, Zuck Road, and Sterrettania Road provide access to neighborhood clinics and pharmacies, offering convenience for medication pick-ups and minor health concerns. These roads are generally less congested, making them suitable for shorter trips.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Routes**

The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) provides public transportation services within the city and surrounding areas. Understanding the EMTA routes that serve 16546 is essential for those who rely on public transit.

Several EMTA routes directly serve the 16546 area, including routes 1, 2, and 12. Route 1, the "Peach Street" route, travels along PA-8, offering convenient access to Millcreek Community Hospital and other medical facilities. Route 2, the "West 26th Street" route, provides access to clinics and pharmacies along its path. Route 12, the "West Ridge Road" route, offers access to healthcare facilities along PA-5.

The EMTA strives to provide accessible transportation. All EMTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, adhering to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. This is particularly important for individuals with hypertension who may experience mobility limitations.

However, public transit in Erie, like in many cities, can be subject to delays. Weather conditions, traffic congestion, and route variations can impact travel times. Therefore, planning for additional travel time is advisable when using public transit for medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient alternatives to driving or using public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are unable to drive or prefer not to.

Availability and pricing of ride-sharing services in Erie can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. However, they generally provide a reliable option for reaching healthcare facilities, offering door-to-door service.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transportation, several options are available. Medical transport services cater specifically to patients with mobility limitations or other needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with transportation.

Local medical transport providers in Erie include, but are not limited to, Erie Paratransit and various private ambulance services. These services typically require advance booking, ensuring timely and safe transportation to medical appointments.

**Healthcare Access: A Comprehensive Perspective**

The "Hypertension Score" for 16546 reflects a mixed landscape. While driving offers relatively quick access to major medical centers, public transit provides a viable alternative, particularly for those without personal vehicles. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer additional options, catering to diverse needs.

When moving to Erie, individuals managing hypertension should consider several factors. Proximity to healthcare providers, the efficiency of transportation routes, and the availability of alternative transport solutions are crucial.

The availability of pharmacies within 16546 and surrounding areas is also vital for medication access. Several pharmacies, including national chains and local pharmacies, are located within the zip code and along the primary transportation routes, ensuring convenient access to prescriptions.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

The "Hypertension Score" write-up provides a detailed overview of transportation options for healthcare access in 16546. By understanding the drive times, public transit routes, and alternative transport solutions, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The ease of access to healthcare, a critical factor for individuals managing hypertension, is a key consideration when moving to a new location. While 16546 offers a range of transportation options, careful planning and consideration of individual needs are essential for ensuring consistent and reliable healthcare access. The ultimate goal is to facilitate a smooth transition and empower individuals to maintain optimal health within their new community.