18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.41 percent of residents in 18465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 7.54 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Thompson, PA (ZIP Code 18465)

The quaint borough of Thompson, Pennsylvania, nestled within the verdant embrace of Susquehanna County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to consistently and reliably reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and other vital services is paramount. This write-up, designed to inform potential residents or those already residing in ZIP code 18465, analyzes the existing transportation infrastructure and its implications for managing hypertension. We aim to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score," a subjective assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare within and from Thompson.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Thompson is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The vast majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation. This reality significantly shapes the landscape of healthcare access. The primary arteries for moving to Thompson and navigating within the region are Route 171 and Route 29. Route 171 snakes through the heart of the borough, providing direct access to local amenities and connecting with other major thoroughfares. Route 29, running north-south, offers a more direct route to larger towns and cities, including Montrose and Scranton, where more specialized medical services are readily available.

Drive times are a critical component of the Hypertension Score. The distance to essential healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies, directly impacts the ability to manage hypertension effectively. A typical drive to the nearest primary care physician within Thompson could take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. Pharmacies are generally accessible within a similar timeframe. However, accessing specialized care, such as cardiology, often necessitates a longer commute.

For specialized care, the drive to Montrose, the county seat, is approximately 20-30 minutes via Route 29. Scranton, a regional hub with a wider array of specialists and hospitals, is approximately 45-60 minutes away, also primarily via Route 29. These longer drive times, especially during inclement weather or peak traffic hours, can pose challenges for individuals with hypertension, potentially impacting appointment adherence and medication refills. The reliability of these drive times is also a factor; road closures due to weather or accidents can significantly disrupt access.

Public transportation options within and from Thompson are extremely limited. This is a significant factor impacting the Hypertension Score. There is no established public bus system operating within the borough or connecting it to neighboring towns. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, those who are unable to drive due to health reasons, or those who prefer not to drive. The absence of public transit necessitates reliance on other, often less reliable, modes of transportation.

The absence of public transit directly impacts healthcare access. Individuals without personal vehicles are left with limited options. This lack of transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed medication refills, and a general decrease in the ability to effectively manage hypertension. The lack of ADA-accessible features in any potential public transit options further exacerbates this issue for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Scranton area. However, their availability and reliability in Thompson are significantly less certain. The limited population density and geographic isolation can make it challenging to secure a ride, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergency situations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited depending on insurance coverage and scheduling demands.

The availability and accessibility of medical transportation services are crucial for individuals with hypertension who may have mobility limitations or who are unable to drive. These services can provide a vital link to healthcare, ensuring that individuals can attend appointments and receive necessary medical care. However, the cost and availability of these services are significant factors that impact the overall Hypertension Score.

Pharmacies are essential for managing hypertension. The ability to quickly and easily access medication refills is critical. Thompson has local pharmacies, providing convenient access to medications and other healthcare essentials. However, the availability of specialized medications or the need for compounding services may require a trip to a pharmacy in a larger town, such as Montrose or Scranton, adding to the overall transportation burden.

The availability of pharmacies and their proximity to residents directly impacts medication adherence and overall hypertension management. The ability to obtain refills quickly and easily is crucial for maintaining consistent medication schedules. The distance to pharmacies and the availability of delivery services are important considerations for the Hypertension Score.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Thompson, PA (ZIP Code 18465) is moderate, leaning towards challenging. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transportation options and the potential for longer drive times to specialized care, presents significant challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The availability of local pharmacies and the potential for medical transportation services offer some mitigation, but the overall transportation infrastructure can be a barrier to consistent and reliable healthcare access.

For individuals moving to Thompson or considering a move, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and capabilities is essential. Those who are reliant on public transportation or who have mobility limitations should carefully consider the challenges associated with accessing healthcare. The ability to drive or to secure reliable transportation from family, friends, or medical transportation services is crucial for effectively managing hypertension in this community.

The potential for inclement weather, particularly during the winter months, further complicates transportation and healthcare access. Snow and ice can make driving conditions hazardous, potentially leading to delays or cancellations of appointments. This factor should be considered when assessing the overall Hypertension Score.

In conclusion, while Thompson offers a tranquil and scenic environment, the transportation infrastructure presents specific challenges for individuals managing hypertension. Careful planning, consideration of individual transportation needs, and awareness of the limitations of the existing infrastructure are crucial for ensuring effective healthcare access and successful hypertension management. The availability of local pharmacies, the potential for medical transportation services, and the proximity to larger towns with more comprehensive healthcare options offer some mitigation, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options remain significant factors influencing the Hypertension Score. For those considering moving to Thompson, a thorough evaluation of these factors is essential to ensure a smooth transition and continued access to quality healthcare.