Health Scores Near 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania
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The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
87.95 percent of residents in 18221 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 4.90 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania
| Hypertension Score | 93 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 85 |
| Provider Score | 70 |
| Hospital Score | 71 |
| Travel Score | 44 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 18221 | Drifton | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 5.04 |
| 1 Car | 67.47 | 67.47 | 21.45 |
| 2 Cars | 32.53 | 32.53 | 41.29 |
| 3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania
## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Drifton, PA (ZIP Code 18221)
The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access vital healthcare services. In Drifton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18221), this access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is a complex equation. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score," considering the multifaceted aspects of transportation and healthcare access, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Drifton.
The score will be constructed considering drive times, public transportation options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. Each element will be weighed to provide a holistic picture of the challenges and opportunities for hypertension management within the community.
**The Geography of Healthcare in 18221**
Drifton, nestled in Luzerne County, presents a unique geographical landscape. The community is relatively rural, with a limited number of healthcare providers directly within the ZIP code. This necessitates travel for many residents seeking specialized care or regular check-ups, a critical factor when managing a chronic condition like hypertension.
The primary artery for vehicular transportation is Interstate 80 (I-80), providing relatively quick access to larger medical centers. However, the reliance on personal vehicles is high, and drive times can fluctuate significantly based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination.
**Drive Times: The Time-Sensitive Factor**
For individuals managing hypertension, timely access to healthcare is paramount. Routine check-ups, medication refills, and the potential for urgent care visits demand efficient transportation.
* **To Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Plains Township):** This is a major regional hospital, and the drive typically takes 20-30 minutes via I-80 East and PA-309 South. During peak hours, this commute can extend, impacting the ability to quickly access medical attention.
* **To Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton:** A shorter drive, approximately 15-20 minutes via I-80 West, this hospital provides a closer option. However, the availability of specialized services may be more limited compared to the larger regional centers.
* **To Local Primary Care Physicians:** The availability of local primary care physicians within Drifton is limited. Residents often need to travel to nearby towns like Hazleton or Freeland, adding 10-15 minutes to their commute.
These drive times, while manageable, highlight the dependence on personal vehicles. For individuals without a car, the situation becomes significantly more challenging.
**Public Transportation: A Limited Resource**
Public transportation options in 18221 are scarce. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides limited bus service, but its routes and schedules may not adequately serve the needs of residents seeking healthcare access.
* **Route 18 (Hazleton-Freeland-White Haven):** This route offers some connectivity, but its frequency is limited, and it may not directly serve medical facilities.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The LCTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules pose challenges.
The lack of robust public transportation underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions, especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**
Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering a potential solution for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas.
Medical transport services provide specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical supervision during transport.
* **Medical Transport Brands:** Several companies offer medical transport services in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may depend on insurance coverage and the specific needs of the patient.
The availability of ride-share and medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for individuals who cannot drive. However, their cost and reliability must be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.
**The Hypertension Score: A Composite View**
The "Hypertension Score" for 18221 is a composite measure, considering the factors discussed above. It reflects the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare services relevant to hypertension management.
* **Drive Time Factor:** The relatively manageable drive times to major hospitals and the limited availability of local primary care physicians will be considered.
* **Public Transportation Factor:** The limited route coverage and infrequent schedules of the LCTA will be a significant factor.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport Factor:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-share and medical transport services will be assessed.
The score will be presented on a scale, providing a clear indication of the overall accessibility of healthcare for individuals with hypertension in Drifton.
**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**
For current residents of 18221 managing hypertension, the score highlights the importance of:
* **Maintaining reliable transportation:** Whether it's a personal vehicle, a supportive network of family and friends, or a plan for utilizing ride-share or medical transport services.
* **Planning ahead:** Scheduling appointments in advance and considering potential travel times, especially during peak hours.
* **Exploring telehealth options:** Utilizing virtual consultations with healthcare providers to reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.
For individuals considering moving to Drifton, the score provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of healthcare access. It emphasizes the need to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services before making a move.
**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**
The "Hypertension Score" for 18221 is a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about the presence of medical facilities; it's about the ability to reach those facilities in a timely and reliable manner. While the community offers access to major medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create challenges for individuals managing hypertension. By understanding these complexities, residents and prospective movers can navigate the healthcare landscape more effectively, ensuring they receive the care they need to maintain their health and well-being. The ongoing development of transportation infrastructure and the expansion of telehealth services will be crucial in improving healthcare access for all residents of Drifton.
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