18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18056, Hereford, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.32 percent of residents in 18056 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital with a distance of 8.28 miles from the area.

Here's a hypertension-focused analysis for individuals considering a move to Hereford, PA (ZIP Code 18056), assessing transportation and healthcare access.

**Hypertension Score: Hereford, PA (ZIP Code 18056)**

The health of a community is intricately linked to its ability to access healthcare. For residents of Hereford, Pennsylvania, managing hypertension, a chronic condition requiring consistent medical attention, hinges on the efficiency and availability of transportation options. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of transportation infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and potential challenges for those living with hypertension in ZIP Code 18056, offering a “Hypertension Score” based on accessibility.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

Hereford, nestled in the heart of rural Pennsylvania, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the major roadways surrounding the area. The primary route is the **Pennsylvania Route 100**. This road provides a direct link to the more populated areas where medical facilities are located.

Drive times, crucial for someone managing hypertension, vary based on traffic and time of day. The closest hospital, **Lehigh Valley Hospital–Muhlenberg**, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. This journey typically involves navigating Route 100 and connecting to major highways like **Interstate 78**.

Another option is **St. Luke's Hospital–Upper Bucks Campus**, which is roughly a 35-50 minute drive via Route 100 and connecting roads. These drive times are important. A sudden hypertensive crisis demands swift medical intervention.

The quality of the roads themselves is generally good, but winter weather can pose a challenge, potentially increasing drive times and making travel hazardous. The absence of significant congestion outside of peak hours is a plus, but the reliance on personal vehicles does present a challenge for those without.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in the Hereford area are significantly limited. The **LANTA (Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority)**, the primary public transit provider for the Lehigh Valley, does not directly service Hereford. The nearest LANTA routes are located in more populated areas, requiring a transfer and significantly increasing travel time to healthcare facilities.

This lack of public transit poses a considerable barrier for individuals who cannot drive, are unable to afford a car, or prefer not to drive. ADA accessibility on any available routes is a critical consideration, as those with mobility issues may find the lack of accessible transportation a significant hurdle. The absence of a robust public transit system is a notable factor in the Hypertension Score, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Hereford area, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as **MedStar** and **CareRide**, are available to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, including those with mobility issues or those requiring assistance. While these services provide a vital lifeline, they often require pre-booking and can be expensive.

**Healthcare Facilities: Proximity and Specialization**

The availability of healthcare facilities is another critical component of the Hypertension Score. While Hereford itself does not have a hospital, the surrounding areas offer a range of options. The previously mentioned Lehigh Valley Hospital–Muhlenberg and St. Luke's Hospital–Upper Bucks Campus provide comprehensive medical services, including cardiology departments and specialized care for hypertension.

Access to primary care physicians is crucial for managing hypertension. Finding a primary care physician accepting new patients in the area is an essential consideration. Proximity to pharmacies for medication refills is another factor. The availability of specialized care, such as cardiology and endocrinology, is also essential for those with complex hypertension needs.

**Pharmacy Access: Medication is Key**

Access to pharmacies is a significant factor in managing hypertension. Several pharmacy chains, such as **CVS** and **Walgreens**, have locations within a reasonable driving distance of Hereford. Local pharmacies may also be available, offering a more personalized service.

The ability to easily obtain prescription refills is crucial for maintaining medication adherence. The availability of mail-order pharmacy services is another option, particularly for those with limited mobility or transportation options.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for Hereford, PA (18056) reflects a mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages. The area offers the tranquility of rural living, but transportation limitations pose a challenge for those managing hypertension.

The score considers the following factors: drive times to healthcare facilities (moderate), the limited availability of public transit (low), the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport (moderate, but potentially costly), the proximity of healthcare facilities (moderate), and pharmacy access (moderate).

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

For individuals considering a move to Hereford, PA, with a diagnosis of hypertension, a careful assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is crucial.

* **Personal Vehicle:** Owning a reliable vehicle is almost essential.
* **Transportation Planning:** Plan routes to medical appointments and factor in potential delays due to traffic or weather.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Have a plan in place for emergencies, including contact information for medical transport services and a backup plan in case of vehicle breakdown.
* **Healthcare Provider Selection:** Choose a primary care physician and cardiologist with convenient access.
* **Medication Management:** Ensure easy access to a pharmacy and consider mail-order options.
* **Community Support:** Explore local community resources and support groups for individuals with hypertension.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The Hypertension Score for Hereford, PA, reflects the need for careful planning and resourcefulness. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options necessitate proactive measures to ensure access to quality healthcare. By understanding the challenges and utilizing available resources, individuals with hypertension can successfully manage their condition while enjoying the benefits of living in Hereford. The ability to secure reliable transportation is paramount. The best strategy involves a combination of personal vehicle use, strategic use of ride-sharing or medical transport, and meticulous planning to ensure timely access to medical care and medication refills.