18201, Hazleton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18201, Hazleton, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.97 percent of residents in 18201 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 0.85 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hazleton (ZIP Code 18201)

Considering a move to Hazleton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18201) and managing hypertension? Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" assessing transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for consistent care and adherence to treatment plans. We'll delve into drive times, public transit intricacies, and alternative transport services, painting a vivid picture of your potential healthcare journey.

The "Hypertension Score" considers factors like travel time, frequency of service, accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations, and cost. A higher score indicates easier access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges. This assessment is designed to empower you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision about your move, especially concerning your health.

**Driving the Arteries: Roadways to Wellness**

Hazleton's transportation landscape is primarily driven by personal vehicles. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south thoroughfare, and the Pennsylvania Route 93 (PA-93), which provides east-west connectivity. The speed and efficiency of these routes are crucial to your healthcare access.

For residents in the heart of Hazleton, the drive to major healthcare providers like Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton (LVH-Hazleton) is generally manageable. Expect a drive of approximately 5-10 minutes via PA-93 or a slightly longer route using Broad Street and then connecting to PA-93. This short commute is a significant advantage, contributing positively to the Hypertension Score.

Venturing beyond Hazleton for specialized care requires a longer commitment. To reach larger medical centers in Scranton or Allentown, you'll rely on I-81. The drive to Scranton, home to Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine and numerous specialists, can take around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Allentown, with its extensive healthcare network, is about a 1 hour and 15-minute to 1 hour and 30-minute drive via I-80 East and then I-476 South. These longer drives, while offering wider healthcare choices, impact the Hypertension Score negatively.

**Public Transit's Pulse: Navigating the Bus System**

Public transportation in Hazleton is provided by the Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA). The system offers a limited network of bus routes, primarily focused on serving the immediate Hazleton area. For individuals with hypertension, reliable public transit is essential for regular appointments.

LCTA routes serving Hazleton include Route 18, which runs along Broad Street, and Route 21, which connects to the Laurel Mall. These routes, while potentially useful for local errands, may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. Route 18 is particularly relevant, as it passes near LVH-Hazleton, offering a viable, albeit potentially slower, alternative to driving.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. LCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the frequency of service on some routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited. This reduced frequency, combined with the potential for longer travel times compared to driving, negatively affects the Hypertension Score.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Hazleton, offering another option for accessing healthcare. While convenient, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during peak hours or in less populated areas, can also be inconsistent. This variability impacts the Hypertension Score.

Medical transportation services are specifically designed to assist individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like Medical Transportation Services (MTS) and First Transit offer non-emergency medical transport in the Hazleton area. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel, but they typically require advance booking and may be more expensive than other options. They can be a valuable resource, particularly for those unable to drive or use public transit, but the cost factor influences the Hypertension Score.

**Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP Code 18201 reflects a mixed picture. The immediate access to LVH-Hazleton via car is a significant advantage, contributing positively to the score. The limited public transit options and the reliance on longer drives for specialized care, however, detract from the score. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternatives, but their cost and potential limitations must be considered.

**Moving to Hazleton: Healthcare Considerations**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to Hazleton, a careful assessment of your healthcare needs is essential. If you require frequent specialist visits or rely heavily on public transit, the limited options in Hazleton might present challenges. However, the proximity to LVH-Hazleton and the availability of alternative transportation services offer some reassurance.

Before making your decision, consider the following:

* **Your healthcare needs:** How often do you need to see a doctor or specialist?
* **Your mobility:** Are you able to drive, or do you rely on public transit or other services?
* **Your budget:** Can you afford ride-sharing or medical transportation services?
* **Your insurance coverage:** Does your insurance cover transportation costs?

By carefully evaluating these factors and understanding the transportation landscape, you can make an informed decision about whether Hazleton is the right place for you, considering your health and well-being. The "Hypertension Score" is a tool to aid this process, highlighting the vital connection between transportation and healthcare access.