18628, Lopez, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18628, Lopez, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.28 percent of residents in 18628 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berwick Hospital Center with a distance of 26.78 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 18628

The journey to healthcare within ZIP Code 18628, encompassing the charming locale of Lopez, Pennsylvania, presents a multifaceted challenge, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, focusing on transportation options, drive times, and accessibility, aims to provide a “Hypertension Score” assessment, reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical services. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents, particularly those considering moving to Lopez, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Lopez lies in the proximity of medical facilities. The town itself offers limited direct options, necessitating travel to neighboring communities. This geographical reality immediately introduces the variable of transportation, a critical determinant of the “Hypertension Score.”

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For those who drive, the primary routes to healthcare involve traversing the scenic but sometimes winding roads of Sullivan County. The most direct path often leads south via Route 220, a major artery connecting Lopez to larger towns like Dushore and Towanda. Drive times to these locations, where hospitals and specialized clinics are situated, can vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions.

A typical drive to Guthrie Towanda Memorial Hospital, for example, can range from 30 to 45 minutes, assuming moderate traffic and favorable weather. This journey necessitates careful planning, especially for individuals with hypertension who may experience anxiety or stress related to travel. Route 87, another key road, offers an alternative route, though it can be more circuitous and potentially slower, particularly during peak hours.

The condition of the roads themselves also plays a role. While generally well-maintained, the mountainous terrain can present challenges during winter months, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of accidents. This factor further contributes to the complexity of the “Hypertension Score.”

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The availability of bus routes is scarce, and schedules may not align with the needs of individuals seeking regular medical appointments. While the specific bus routes serving Lopez are limited, it’s crucial to investigate the existence of any public transit options, even if infrequent.

The absence of comprehensive public transit can severely restrict healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, or for individuals unable to drive due to medical conditions. This limitation significantly impacts the “Hypertension Score,” particularly for those who rely on public transportation. The lack of readily available public transit forces individuals to explore alternative options, which can be costly and time-consuming.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while increasingly prevalent in urban areas, may have limited availability in Lopez. The presence of these services should be confirmed, as they can provide a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who are unable to drive themselves. The cost and availability of ride-sharing services will undoubtedly impact the “Hypertension Score.”

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. Researching the availability of medical transport services in the area is crucial. The presence of these services can significantly improve the “Hypertension Score,” especially for individuals with mobility issues.

**Accessibility and ADA Compliance: A Critical Consideration**

The accessibility of transportation options is paramount, especially for individuals with disabilities. Public transit, if available, must adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring accessibility for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. The availability of accessible vehicles and routes is a critical factor in the “Hypertension Score.”

The ease of access to medical facilities themselves is equally important. Buildings should be equipped with ramps, elevators, and other features to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. This aspect, along with the accessibility of transportation, contributes to the overall “Hypertension Score.”

**The “Hypertension Score” in Context**

The “Hypertension Score” for ZIP Code 18628 is influenced by several factors. The relatively long drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the potential scarcity of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. The availability of medical transport services and the accessibility of both transportation and medical facilities can partially mitigate these challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Lopez, the “Hypertension Score” should be a key consideration. It's essential to evaluate the available transportation options and assess their suitability for managing hypertension. Proximity to healthcare facilities is crucial, and the ability to access those facilities reliably is paramount.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the “Hypertension Score” in Lopez requires a multi-faceted approach. Encouraging the expansion of public transportation, advocating for the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting the presence of medical transport providers would significantly enhance healthcare access. Furthermore, ensuring the accessibility of all transportation and healthcare facilities is essential.

Individuals managing hypertension should proactively research all available transportation options, plan their medical appointments carefully, and consider the potential impact of travel on their health. This proactive approach, combined with community efforts to improve transportation and healthcare access, can ultimately improve the “Hypertension Score” for residents of ZIP Code 18628. This will make moving to Lopez a more feasible option.