16701, Bradford, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 16701, Bradford, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.63 percent of residents in 16701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 21.66 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bradford, PA (ZIP Code 16701)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is inextricably linked to accessible healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within Bradford, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16701), evaluating its impact on healthcare access, specifically for those seeking regular medical attention to control high blood pressure. Understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure is crucial for residents, potential newcomers, and healthcare providers aiming to improve patient outcomes. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation resources. The ultimate goal is to paint a clear picture of the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare system within this specific geographic area.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Bradford is often the personal vehicle. Driving times to medical facilities are significantly impacted by the local road network. For residents residing in the eastern portion of the ZIP code, reaching UPMC Kane, a primary healthcare provider, necessitates navigating Route 446, a major artery that can experience congestion during peak hours. The journey, typically spanning approximately 10-15 minutes under normal traffic conditions, can be extended by inclement weather, a common occurrence in the region.

Residents in the western part of 16701 might find themselves closer to Bradford Regional Medical Center, accessible via Interstate 86 (I-86) and then Route 219. This route, generally more direct, still demands careful attention to traffic flow, particularly near the I-86 interchanges. The drive time, averaging 5-10 minutes, is subject to fluctuations based on traffic conditions.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of these major hospitals, accessing specialized clinics or physician practices may require navigating secondary roads like East Main Street, West Washington Street, and Congress Street. These routes, while offering alternative paths, can be narrow and subject to delays, especially during periods of high traffic volume. This necessitates careful planning for appointments, factoring in potential travel time variances.

Public transportation, while present, presents limitations within Bradford. The Bradford Area Regional Transit Authority (BARTA) operates a limited bus service within the city. Route numbers are not readily available, but services are available. The routes may not provide comprehensive coverage, especially for residents in more remote areas of the ZIP code. Furthermore, the frequency of service is generally low, with buses running on a limited schedule, particularly on weekends and evenings.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor in evaluating public transit options for individuals with mobility limitations. BARTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, enhancing accessibility for those requiring them. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service frequency can still pose challenges for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent medical appointments and struggle with long wait times or inconvenient schedules.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bradford, but their availability is not consistent. The presence of these services is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. This variability can pose a significant challenge for patients with hypertension, who may need reliable transportation for regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with healthcare needs. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) within the Bradford area. These services, often catering to patients with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, can be a valuable resource. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and prior booking is often required.

For individuals considering moving to Bradford, the transportation landscape presents a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. While the city offers relatively short drive times to major healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation necessitate careful consideration. Individuals with hypertension should factor in potential travel times, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the need for pre-booked medical transportation when evaluating their healthcare access.

The 'Hypertension Score' for Bradford, PA (ZIP Code 16701) reflects the interplay of these factors. The score is a composite of several elements: drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-share reliability, and medical transportation availability. A higher score indicates greater ease of access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges.

Drive times, while generally reasonable, are subject to traffic and weather conditions, reducing the score. The limited public transit options and the variability of ride-sharing services further contribute to a lower score. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial buffer, but its cost and the need for pre-booking can still create barriers.

For those seeking to improve their health, especially those managing hypertension, it is critical to understand the transportation landscape in Bradford. Careful planning, including considering the limitations of public transportation and the potential need for ride-sharing or medical transportation, is essential.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 16701 should be viewed as a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on evolving transportation infrastructure and service availability. As Bradford continues to develop, improvements in public transit, increased ride-sharing availability, and enhanced medical transportation options could significantly improve healthcare access for all residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The ability to easily and reliably access healthcare is a cornerstone of well-being, and understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities is paramount for individuals seeking to live a healthy life in Bradford.