18424, Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18424, Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.33 percent of residents in 18424 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Community Medical Center with a distance of 13.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Gouldsboro, PA (ZIP Code 18424)

Considering a move to the serene landscapes of Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18424)? Beyond the picturesque beauty, it's crucial to assess your access to essential healthcare services, especially if you manage hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive analysis of the transportation landscape, offering a "Hypertension Score" based on the ease of reaching medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport. This information is vital for informed decision-making, particularly for individuals prioritizing healthcare access.

Gouldsboro, nestled in the Pocono Mountains, presents a unique transportation challenge. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its relative remoteness influences healthcare accessibility. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, with limited public transit options. This necessitates careful consideration of drive times to medical facilities, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect this reality, offering a nuanced understanding of your healthcare commute.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Healthcare Access**

The primary roadways serving Gouldsboro are Interstate 380 (I-380), Pennsylvania Route 611 (PA-611), and the local network of smaller roads. Access to healthcare facilities hinges on these routes. For instance, the closest hospitals, such as Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre and Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton, necessitate navigating these roadways.

Driving to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, approximately 25 miles from Gouldsboro, typically takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey involves utilizing I-380 East and then connecting to I-81 North. During rush hour, particularly on weekdays, congestion on I-380 can significantly extend travel times. Winter weather, common in the Poconos, adds another layer of complexity, potentially causing delays due to snow and ice.

Similarly, a trip to Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton, roughly 20 miles away, demands a drive of approximately 30-40 minutes. This route primarily involves PA-611 South and I-81 North. Traffic on PA-611, especially near Scranton, can be heavy, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. The "Hypertension Score" will consider these variables, reflecting the potential impact of traffic and weather on healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public transportation options in Gouldsboro are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. While the Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some bus services in the Scranton area, these routes rarely extend directly into Gouldsboro.

The LCTA does operate some routes that may offer a connection point, requiring a transfer, but these routes often have limited frequency and may not be easily accessible from all parts of Gouldsboro. The primary challenge with public transit is the extended travel time and the need for multiple transfers, potentially increasing the stress and inconvenience for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" will weigh the limitations of public transit in assessing healthcare access.

ADA accessibility is a critical factor when considering public transit. The LCTA strives to provide accessible buses, but the availability of accessible routes and the practicality of navigating transfers with mobility limitations must be carefully evaluated. Individuals with mobility challenges should verify the specific accessibility features of each route and transfer point.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Gouldsboro area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Ride-sharing fares can also be a significant expense, especially for frequent medical appointments. The "Hypertension Score" will factor in the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, such as MedTrans or other local providers, offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, but they provide a reliable and safe option for those requiring assistance. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the availability and cost of medical transport options.

**The "Hypertension Score" and Your Decision**

The "Hypertension Score" for Gouldsboro (ZIP Code 18424) is designed to provide a holistic assessment of healthcare access. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average travel times to the nearest hospitals and medical facilities, considering traffic and weather conditions.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, accessibility, and convenience of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability and Cost:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of specialized medical transportation.

The score will range from 1 to 5, with 1 representing the least accessible and 5 representing the most accessible. A lower score indicates a greater challenge in accessing healthcare, potentially impacting the management of hypertension.

**Moving to Gouldsboro: Informed Choices for Healthcare**

Choosing to move to Gouldsboro requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the relative remoteness and limited transportation options can present challenges. The "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable tool for making an informed decision, especially for individuals managing hypertension.

Before making a move, individuals should:

* **Assess their healthcare needs:** Determine the frequency and type of medical appointments required.
* **Research local medical facilities:** Identify the nearest hospitals, clinics, and specialists.
* **Evaluate transportation options:** Consider the cost, reliability, and convenience of each option.
* **Consult with healthcare providers:** Discuss the implications of healthcare access on their treatment plan.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make an informed decision about whether Gouldsboro is the right place to call home, ensuring they can effectively manage their health and access the care they need. The "Hypertension Score" empowers individuals to prioritize their healthcare needs, making the move to Gouldsboro a well-informed and healthy choice.