18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18518, Old Forge, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.06 percent of residents in 18518 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Community Medical Center with a distance of 5.26 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Transportation and Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 18518 (Old Forge, PA)**

The decision to relocate, especially when managing a health condition like hypertension, necessitates a thorough evaluation of healthcare access. For those considering a move to Old Forge, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18518), understanding the intricacies of transportation options to medical facilities is paramount. This write-up analyzes the available transportation infrastructure, including drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing services, to determine a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease of accessing healthcare within this specific geographic area. This score will aid in evaluating the feasibility of managing hypertension while living in Old Forge.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Old Forge is the availability of transportation. The town's location, nestled within the Lackawanna Valley, presents both opportunities and challenges. The major thoroughfare, Interstate 81, offers swift north-south access, while Interstate 84 provides east-west connectivity. Route 6, a significant east-west artery, adds another layer of transportation options. However, the reliance on personal vehicles is substantial.

Drive times to medical facilities are crucial. The nearest major healthcare provider, Geisinger Community Medical Center, is approximately a 10- to 15-minute drive, primarily via the Keyser Avenue exit off Interstate 81. Scranton, the county seat, offers a wider range of specialists and hospitals. Driving to Scranton can take between 15 to 30 minutes, dependent on traffic, utilizing Interstate 81, Route 6, and local roads like Boulevard Avenue. The drive to Wilkes-Barre, another healthcare hub, is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, utilizing Interstate 81 south.

Public transportation, while present, presents limitations. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the county. Several routes serve Old Forge, offering connections to Scranton and surrounding areas. The primary routes serving the area include Route 20, which runs along Main Street, and Route 21, which offers connections to Scranton. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, particularly on evenings and weekends. ADA-accessible buses are available, offering crucial support for those with mobility limitations. The lack of extensive public transit options may pose a challenge for those without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Old Forge area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, availability and pricing can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments requires careful planning and budgeting. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for appointments with specific time constraints.

Medical transportation services are also available, catering specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, often provided by private companies, offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Companies such as MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) provide medical transport. The cost of these services can be significant, and eligibility may depend on insurance coverage and the patient's medical condition.

Evaluating the transportation landscape, we can formulate a Hypertension Score. This score considers several factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and frequency of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and accessibility of medical transportation.

Given the reliance on personal vehicles, the Hypertension Score for Old Forge is moderately favorable. The proximity to Geisinger Community Medical Center offers a significant advantage. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, although these services may come at a cost. The limited public transit options, particularly for those with mobility limitations, represent a challenge.

For individuals with well-controlled hypertension and access to a personal vehicle, the score is relatively high. They can easily access medical care and manage their condition. For those reliant on public transit or with mobility limitations, the score is lower. Careful planning and reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation are necessary.

Moving to Old Forge requires careful consideration of healthcare access. While the town offers a pleasant environment, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges for those managing hypertension. Understanding these factors is crucial for making an informed decision about relocating to this community.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It should be regularly reevaluated based on individual circumstances, changes in health, and updates to transportation services. This comprehensive analysis provides a solid foundation for making informed decisions about healthcare access in Old Forge, Pennsylvania, ensuring that the move supports, rather than hinders, the management of hypertension. The ability to readily access healthcare is a critical aspect of well-being, and this assessment aims to empower individuals to make informed choices.