18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18512, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.06 percent of residents in 18512 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 1.75 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Scranton's 18512

Considering a move to Scranton, Pennsylvania, particularly the 18512 ZIP code? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" – a composite assessment of transportation options and healthcare access specifically relevant to individuals managing hypertension. The score aims to illuminate the ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical care, factoring in commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation methods. This is vital information for anyone considering a move, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.

The 18512 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Scranton and Dunmore, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The city's layout, characterized by hills and varying road conditions, significantly influences transportation efficiency. Furthermore, the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services impacts the overall accessibility of medical facilities, crucial for consistent hypertension management.

**Driving Times and Road Networks**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, the primary arteries within 18512 are critical. Interstate 81 (I-81) serves as the major north-south thoroughfare, offering relatively quick access to hospitals and specialist clinics. However, peak traffic, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can dramatically increase travel times. Pennsylvania Route 6 (PA-6), a major east-west route, provides access to healthcare facilities located further east.

Local roads, such as Boulevard Avenue, Cedar Avenue, and the Scranton Expressway, offer alternative routes, though they are often subject to stop-and-go traffic and potential delays. The condition of these roads can also vary, especially during winter months, impacting travel times and safety. The drive to major healthcare providers, such as Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) on Wyoming Avenue or Moses Taylor Hospital on Mulberry Street, can range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the ZIP code.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Lackawanna County Transit System**

The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS), also known as "The COLTS," provides public transportation within the region. While the COLTS offers a network of bus routes, its coverage within 18512 can be limited, especially for individuals residing in the more geographically challenging areas. The bus routes most relevant for healthcare access include routes 1, 2, and 9.

Route 1 often serves the central Scranton area, potentially connecting residents to GCMC and other downtown medical facilities. Route 2 typically travels along the west side of Scranton. Route 9 runs along the east side of Scranton and can provide access to some healthcare providers in that area. However, the frequency of these routes can be a significant factor, with buses often running at intervals of 30 to 60 minutes, or even longer during off-peak hours and weekends.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The COLTS is mandated to provide accessible services. All COLTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps. However, the availability of accessible bus stops and the distance from a bus stop to a healthcare facility can still pose challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternatives to Consider**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transportation, especially for individuals with mobility issues or those who prefer not to drive. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility devices. Local medical transport providers include companies such as First Transit and American Medical Response (AMR). However, these services typically require prior booking and may not be readily available for last-minute appointments.

**The Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for 18512 is not a single numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment based on the following factors:

* **Drive-time accessibility:** The proximity of healthcare providers and the average commute times via car.
* **Public transit reliability:** The frequency, coverage, and accessibility of COLTS bus routes.
* **Ride-sharing and medical transport availability:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options.
* **Geographic challenges:** The impact of hills, road conditions, and weather on transportation efficiency.

**Implications for Hypertension Management**

For individuals with hypertension, consistent access to medical care is paramount. This includes regular check-ups, medication refills, and the ability to quickly seek medical attention in case of emergencies. The transportation options available in 18512 directly impact the ability to adhere to these essential healthcare requirements.

The score highlights the need for careful consideration of transportation challenges when moving to Scranton. While driving offers the most flexibility, traffic and road conditions can present obstacles. Public transportation, while available, may not always be convenient or frequent enough. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide viable alternatives, but at a cost.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

Individuals with hypertension considering a move to 18512 should:

1. **Assess the proximity of healthcare providers:** Identify the hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies closest to their prospective residence.
2. **Evaluate public transit options:** Research the COLTS bus routes and schedules to determine their suitability for accessing healthcare.
3. **Factor in ride-sharing and medical transport costs:** Estimate the cost of using these services for regular medical appointments.
4. **Consider the impact of geographic challenges:** Account for hills, road conditions, and weather when planning transportation.
5. **Plan for potential emergencies:** Identify alternative transportation options in case of sudden health issues.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their move and ensure they have adequate access to the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension effectively. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a guide to understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access within Scranton's 18512 ZIP code, making moving to Scranton a better-informed choice.