18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18255, Weatherly, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.92 percent of residents in 18255 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 7.23 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Weatherly, PA (ZIP Code 18255) - A Transportation and Healthcare Access Analysis

Considering a move to Weatherly, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18255)? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score," a composite metric designed to assess the ease of accessing healthcare services, specifically for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and medication. The score considers transportation options, drive times, and accessibility features, providing a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access within the area. This is especially crucial when considering the impact of transportation on health outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a definitive medical assessment but rather a tool to aid in relocation decisions, particularly for those with chronic conditions. It reflects the practical realities of navigating the local transportation landscape to reach essential healthcare providers. This report will detail the transportation infrastructure, including highways, roads, and public transit, and evaluate their implications for healthcare access.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

Weatherly's primary arteries are Route 93, Route 81, and Route 1006 (also known as Broad Mountain Road). These roads connect the borough to surrounding communities and healthcare facilities. The accessibility of these roadways is a critical component of the "Hypertension Score."

Drive times are a significant factor in determining healthcare access. For residents of Weatherly, the closest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in nearby towns, primarily Hazleton and Lehighton. Driving to Hazleton Regional Hospital via Route 93 and Route 309 typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Lehighton, home to St. Luke's Hospital – Lehighton Campus, is accessible via Route 93 and Route 209, with a drive time of around 25-35 minutes. These drive times are considered moderate, but the score will consider the potential impact of inclement weather and traffic congestion on these routes.

Access to specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, may necessitate travel to larger medical centers further afield, potentially increasing drive times. The drive to larger facilities in Allentown, accessible via Route 81, can take over an hour, making it a less desirable option for routine checkups or urgent care needs. This longer travel time will negatively impact the "Hypertension Score."

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Weatherly are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or prefer not to drive. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some bus service, but its routes and frequency are limited, particularly for reaching healthcare facilities.

The LCTA Route 18, for example, might offer some service to Hazleton, but its schedule is often infrequent, and the routes may not directly serve medical facilities. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor in assessing the viability of public transit for individuals with mobility limitations. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the availability of accessible buses, ramps, and other features.

The lack of extensive public transit options in Weatherly significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." The reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services becomes more pronounced, potentially increasing healthcare costs and limiting access for those without these options. The impact of limited public transportation on healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to Weatherly.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Weatherly area, offering an alternative transportation option, especially for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can be a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or other healthcare needs. The availability and cost of these services will be factored into the "Hypertension Score."

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transportation services can add to the overall cost of healthcare and potentially create logistical challenges. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the affordability and reliability of these services.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the proximity of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies. The availability of these services within a reasonable driving distance is crucial for managing hypertension effectively.

Weatherly has a few local medical practices, but the range of specialists may be limited. This necessitates travel to larger medical centers in Hazleton or Lehighton for specialized care. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the availability of both primary care and specialist services within a reasonable travel radius.

The availability of pharmacies for medication refills is another crucial factor. Weatherly has pharmacies within the borough, but the "Hypertension Score" will consider the ease of access and the hours of operation.

**ADA Accessibility: Ensuring Inclusivity**

The "Hypertension Score" emphasizes the importance of ADA accessibility across all transportation options and healthcare facilities. This includes accessible buses, ramps, elevators, and other features that enable individuals with disabilities to access healthcare services independently.

The score will consider the ADA compliance of public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical facilities in the area. This is particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or other disabilities that may impact their ability to travel.

**The "Hypertension Score" – A Summary**

The "Hypertension Score" for Weatherly, PA (ZIP Code 18255) will be determined by weighing the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The time required to reach primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals.
* **Public Transit:** The availability, frequency, and ADA accessibility of public transportation.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.
* **Healthcare Provider Proximity:** The proximity of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The accessibility of transportation options and healthcare facilities for individuals with disabilities.

Based on this analysis, the "Hypertension Score" for Weatherly, PA (ZIP Code 18255) will reflect the overall ease of accessing healthcare services, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This score will provide a valuable tool for those considering moving to the area, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The impact of transportation on healthcare access is a crucial factor to consider when planning a move to Weatherly.