18657, Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18657, Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.59 percent of residents in 18657 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 17.42 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tunkhannock (ZIP Code 18657)

Considering a move to Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18657)? This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical professionals is paramount for managing this condition, and the transportation infrastructure significantly impacts that access. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, ultimately providing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease of healthcare navigation in this Wyoming County community.

Tunkhannock, nestled in the Endless Mountains, presents a unique transportation landscape. While the scenic beauty is undeniable, the rural setting influences healthcare access. The primary arteries for automobile travel are US Route 6 and US Route 6 Bypass. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours or inclement weather, impacting drive times to essential healthcare facilities.

Driving to the nearest major hospitals, such as Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township, requires navigating these routes. The drive, typically around 30-45 minutes under ideal conditions, can stretch to an hour or more during rush hour or winter storms. The route primarily involves US Route 6 East, transitioning to Interstate 81 South. This extended travel time is a critical factor for individuals with hypertension, where prompt medical attention can be life-saving.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation presents a challenge. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides limited bus service to Tunkhannock. However, these routes, often designated by numbers, are infrequent and may not directly serve medical facilities. Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility varies across routes and bus types. Individuals with mobility limitations, a common concern among those with hypertension, may find public transit less than ideal.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, operate in the area but availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on these services for regular medical appointments can be risky, potentially leading to delays or missed appointments. The cost of ride-sharing also adds a financial burden, further impacting healthcare access. Medical transport services, such as LifeGuard Transportation, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. While these services provide door-to-door assistance, they often require advance booking and can be expensive.

Healthcare access extends beyond the physical journey. The availability of local medical practices within Tunkhannock is also crucial. The Tunkhannock Community Health Center offers primary care services. However, the scope of specialized care may be limited, necessitating travel to larger hospitals for cardiology appointments, diagnostic testing, or emergency treatment.

The "Hypertension Score" is a subjective assessment reflecting the overall ease of accessing healthcare for individuals with hypertension in ZIP Code 18657. It considers factors such as drive times, public transit reliability, ride-sharing availability, and the presence of local medical facilities.

**Factors Considered:**

* **Drive Times:** The time required to reach major hospitals and specialized medical facilities.
* **Public Transit:** The frequency, accessibility, and reliability of public bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Local Medical Resources:** The presence and scope of primary care and specialized medical practices within Tunkhannock.
* **Weather Conditions:** The impact of inclement weather on transportation.

**Scoring Methodology:**

The score is based on a scale of 1-5, with 1 representing the least accessible and 5 representing the most accessible.

* **1:** Extremely limited access. Long drive times, unreliable public transit, inconsistent ride-sharing, and limited local medical resources.
* **2:** Limited access. Moderate drive times, infrequent public transit, and unreliable ride-sharing. Some local medical resources.
* **3:** Moderate access. Manageable drive times, limited but available public transit, and occasional ride-sharing. Adequate local medical resources.
* **4:** Good access. Relatively short drive times, reliable public transit, and consistent ride-sharing. Comprehensive local medical resources.
* **5:** Excellent access. Very short drive times, frequent and accessible public transit, readily available ride-sharing, and abundant local medical resources.

**Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 18657:**

Based on the analysis, the "Hypertension Score" for Tunkhannock (ZIP Code 18657) is a **2**.

**Rationale:**

While Tunkhannock offers local primary care, the reliance on automobile transportation to reach specialized medical facilities significantly impacts healthcare access. Drive times to major hospitals can be substantial, especially during peak hours or in adverse weather. Public transit options are limited and may not be suitable for all individuals. Ride-sharing availability is inconsistent. While medical transport services are available, they add to the cost and require advance planning. This combination of factors contributes to a lower score, highlighting the challenges of healthcare access for individuals with hypertension in this rural setting.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

* **Advocate for increased public transit:** Expanding LCTA bus routes to include more frequent service and direct routes to medical facilities. Improving ADA accessibility on all routes is crucial.
* **Promote ride-sharing partnerships:** Encourage partnerships between local healthcare providers and ride-sharing companies to offer discounted or subsidized transportation for medical appointments.
* **Support telehealth initiatives:** Expand access to telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine check-ups and medication management.
* **Attract more specialized medical practices:** Encourage the establishment of cardiology clinics or satellite offices of larger hospitals within Tunkhannock to reduce the need for travel.
* **Improve road infrastructure:** Advocate for road maintenance and upgrades to reduce travel times and improve safety, particularly during inclement weather.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Tunkhannock presents a unique lifestyle, but individuals managing hypertension must carefully consider the challenges of healthcare access. While the community offers local resources, the reliance on automobile transportation and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services create potential barriers. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about relocating and ensuring access to timely and effective medical care. Planning for transportation is essential for individuals with hypertension, and exploring options like medical transport or telehealth can improve the overall quality of life.