18202, Hazleton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18202, Hazleton, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.05 percent of residents in 18202 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 2.15 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hazleton (ZIP Code 18202)

Considering a move to Hazleton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18202)? Understanding the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for managing conditions like hypertension, is crucial. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within and around the city. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for potential residents, especially those with hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal medical metric, but a qualitative assessment of the ease with which individuals can reach necessary healthcare services. It weighs the availability, affordability, and convenience of transportation options. Factors like drive times, public transit frequency, and the presence of specialized medical transport services are all considered. A higher score indicates better access, while a lower score signals potential challenges.

Hazleton, nestled in the foothills of the Pocono Mountains, presents a unique transportation landscape. The city's relatively compact size offers advantages, but the surrounding terrain and limited public transit options can create hurdles. Residents with hypertension require regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist visits, making reliable transportation a necessity.

**Driving and Drive Times:**

The primary mode of transportation in Hazleton is personal vehicles. Several major roadways facilitate movement within and beyond the city. Interstate 81 (I-81) is the dominant north-south artery, providing access to larger cities like Scranton to the north and Harrisburg to the south. Route 80, a major east-west interstate, lies a short distance south of Hazleton, connecting to Philadelphia and New York City.

Within Hazleton, Route 309 serves as a significant commercial corridor, lined with businesses and healthcare providers. Route 924 and Route 424 also play vital roles in local traffic flow. Drive times to healthcare facilities within Hazleton are generally manageable, typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on location and traffic. However, travel to specialists or hospitals outside the city can significantly increase commute times.

For instance, a drive to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, a regional hospital, can take approximately 30 to 45 minutes via I-81, depending on traffic. Similarly, a trip to Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton, located on the outskirts of the city, might require a 10-20 minute drive. The "Hypertension Score" considers these drive times, recognizing that longer commutes can present challenges, particularly for individuals experiencing health issues.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Hazleton are limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service within the city and surrounding areas. However, the frequency of routes and the coverage area are limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Bus routes primarily operate along major roads, including Route 309, Route 924, and Broad Street.

While the LCTA strives to provide accessible services, including ADA-compliant buses, reliance on public transit for frequent healthcare appointments can be challenging. The limited frequency of buses and potential for longer travel times can pose difficulties for individuals with hypertension, who may experience fatigue or require urgent medical attention. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the limitations of public transit, recognizing that it may not be a viable primary mode of transportation for many residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Hazleton, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, availability can vary depending on demand and time of day. Ride-sharing services can be a convenient option for short trips to medical appointments, but the cost can accumulate, especially with frequent visits.

Medical transport services are also available, catering specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Several medical transport providers operate in the Hazleton area, including companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local independent providers.

The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the value of ride-sharing and medical transport, recognizing that these options can improve healthcare access for individuals with specific needs. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier for some, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak hours or in remote areas.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score":**

The "Hypertension Score" for Hazleton (ZIP Code 18202) reflects a mixed picture. While the city offers several healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals, the accessibility of these services is influenced by transportation limitations.

The availability of personal vehicles is a significant advantage, allowing for relatively quick access to healthcare facilities within Hazleton. However, the reliance on personal vehicles also presents challenges, including the cost of ownership, potential traffic delays, and the need for parking.

The limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing services can pose barriers for individuals who do not own a car or who have limited mobility. The availability of medical transport services is a positive factor, but the cost and availability of these services can also be a concern.

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

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to Hazleton, several factors should be carefully considered. The proximity of healthcare providers is crucial, as is the ease with which those providers can be reached. Evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies within a reasonable distance.

Assess the feasibility of using personal vehicles, considering potential traffic delays and parking availability. Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport options. If relying on public transit, familiarize yourself with the LCTA bus routes and schedules.

Prioritize finding a healthcare provider who is conveniently located and accessible via your preferred mode of transportation. Ensure that your chosen pharmacy is easily accessible for medication refills. Consider the potential impact of transportation limitations on your ability to attend regular check-ups, manage your medication, and seek urgent medical attention.

The "Hypertension Score" for Hazleton, while not a definitive metric, provides a valuable framework for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals with hypertension can make informed decisions about moving to Hazleton, ensuring they can effectively manage their condition and maintain their health.