18419, Factoryville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18419, Factoryville, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.20 percent of residents in 18419 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 11.52 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18419

The tranquil borough of Factoryville, nestled in the heart of Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, offers a welcome respite from the frenetic pace of city life. Yet, for residents managing hypertension, the serene backdrop presents a unique challenge: navigating the complex terrain of healthcare access. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for Factoryville (ZIP code 18419), examining the intricacies of transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. For individuals considering moving to Factoryville, understanding these nuances is crucial for maintaining optimal health.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the ease with which residents can access essential medical services, specifically those related to managing hypertension. This includes primary care physicians, cardiologists, pharmacies, and diagnostic facilities. Factors such as travel time, mode of transportation, and accessibility features are all meticulously evaluated. The score aims to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health management.

The primary mode of transportation in Factoryville is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The town is situated at the intersection of several key roadways. Route 6, a major east-west artery, provides access to Scranton, the county seat, and beyond. Traveling east on Route 6, one can reach the Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, a comprehensive healthcare facility. The drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Route 107, another vital thoroughfare, connects Factoryville to the north and south. This road offers access to local pharmacies and smaller medical practices in nearby towns like Clarks Summit and Dalton. The drive times to these locations are generally shorter, ranging from 10 to 20 minutes. The rural nature of the area means that traffic congestion is usually minimal, making car travel relatively predictable.

For residents without personal vehicles, the public transportation options are limited. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the county. However, service to Factoryville is infrequent and primarily geared toward connecting residents to larger population centers. The primary route serving Factoryville is Route 17, which connects to Scranton. The bus ride to Scranton can take up to an hour, significantly increasing travel time compared to driving.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. LCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the infrequency of service and the potential for long travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton area and may be accessible in Factoryville. However, their availability can vary depending on demand and the time of day. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The price can fluctuate significantly based on the distance traveled and the time of day.

Medical transportation services are also available, catering specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can be particularly helpful for patients who are unable to drive or use public transit. However, availability and cost can vary depending on the provider and the level of care required. Brands like First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) operate within the region, offering specialized transport for healthcare needs.

The availability of pharmacies in Factoryville is a positive aspect of healthcare access. Local pharmacies provide convenient access to prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as cardiology, is more limited. Residents often need to travel to Scranton or other larger cities to access these services.

The location of Factoryville, while offering a peaceful environment, presents a challenge for healthcare access. The rural setting means that residents often need to travel significant distances to reach specialized medical facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall "Hypertension Score."

For individuals managing hypertension, regular medical check-ups, medication refills, and access to specialized care are essential. The transportation challenges in Factoryville can potentially impact the ability to adhere to these requirements. The longer travel times and the potential for transportation delays can add stress and inconvenience, potentially affecting the management of hypertension.

When assessing the "Hypertension Score" for Factoryville, it is crucial to consider the individual's specific needs and circumstances. For residents with personal vehicles, the drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable. However, for those without access to a car, the limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing services can create significant barriers to healthcare access.

Furthermore, the availability of support services, such as home healthcare and telehealth, can play a crucial role in mitigating the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. Home healthcare services can provide medication management and other essential care in the comfort of the patient's home.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Factoryville (18419) reflects a mixed picture. While the town offers a tranquil environment, the transportation challenges can impact healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles. For individuals considering moving to Factoryville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services is essential. Planning for healthcare access, including considering the drive times along Route 6 and Route 107, utilizing the LCTA Route 17, and exploring ride-sharing or medical transport, is vital for successfully managing hypertension in this charming, yet geographically challenging, location.