18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.05 percent of residents in 18704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with a distance of 1.69 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kingston, PA (ZIP Code 18704)

The quest for optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, necessitates more than just medical expertise. It demands a reliable and accessible transportation network to facilitate timely appointments, medication refills, and preventative care. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding Kingston, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18704), assessing its impact on healthcare access for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the nuances of commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions is crucial for anyone residing in or considering moving to Kingston.

Kingston, nestled in Luzerne County, presents a unique challenge. While it enjoys proximity to various healthcare providers, the effectiveness of this access hinges on the availability and efficiency of transportation. This is particularly significant for individuals with hypertension, who require consistent medical attention and medication adherence to control their condition. The following analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the transportation options, offering insights into their strengths and weaknesses in the context of healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating Highways and Roads**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The ease of driving to healthcare appointments is often a significant factor in choosing a place to live. Within Kingston, residents can utilize local roads such as Wyoming Avenue, Market Street, and Pierce Street to reach nearby healthcare facilities. These routes offer relatively short travel times, typically under 10 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

However, accessing larger hospitals and specialized clinics often requires navigating the regional highway system. Interstate 81 (I-81) provides a major north-south artery, offering connections to Scranton and Harrisburg. Heading south on I-81, one can reach Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Plains Township within approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Northbound on I-81, accessing healthcare facilities in Scranton might take up to 45 minutes.

The North Cross Valley Expressway (PA-309) is another key route, providing access to healthcare providers in Wilkes-Barre and surrounding areas. Travel times on PA-309 are generally shorter than those on I-81, with the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital accessible within 10-15 minutes. However, traffic congestion during peak hours can significantly impact travel times on both highways, especially on PA-309.

The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another crucial consideration. While most facilities offer ample parking, the cost and availability of parking spaces can vary. Individuals with hypertension may find that the stress of finding parking adds to their anxiety, potentially impacting their health.

**Public Transit: A Balancing Act**

Public transportation offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the county, including Kingston. However, the frequency and coverage of LCTA routes can be a limiting factor for healthcare access.

Several LCTA routes serve Kingston, including Route 9, which runs along Wyoming Avenue, and Route 18, which provides access to downtown Wilkes-Barre. These routes connect Kingston to various healthcare facilities, including Wilkes-Barre General Hospital and the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, with buses often running hourly or less frequently, particularly during evenings and weekends.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. LCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the public transit system can vary. Passengers with mobility limitations should carefully assess the accessibility of specific routes and stops before relying on public transit.

The reliance on public transportation can also impact the flexibility of healthcare appointments. Patients may need to schedule appointments around bus schedules, potentially limiting their choices and adding to their stress. Furthermore, the travel time on public transit can be significantly longer than driving, especially for those with multiple appointments or who need to travel to specialized clinics.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services are readily available in Kingston and can provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. The ease of booking a ride and the door-to-door service can be particularly appealing for individuals with mobility limitations or those who prefer not to drive.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor. The fares can vary depending on the distance, time of day, and demand. Individuals with hypertension, who may have limited incomes, need to factor these costs into their healthcare budget.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services are often covered by insurance and can provide transportation to and from healthcare appointments for those who are unable to drive or use public transit.

Several medical transport providers operate in the Kingston area, including ambulance services and NEMT companies. These providers offer a range of services, including wheelchair-accessible transportation and stretcher transport. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and individuals may need to schedule their transportation in advance.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Kingston**

The transportation landscape in Kingston presents a mixed bag for individuals managing hypertension. While driving offers the most flexibility and often the shortest travel times, public transit and ride-sharing services provide viable alternatives. The availability of medical transport services further enhances healthcare access for those with specific needs.

For individuals considering moving to Kingston, a thorough assessment of the transportation options is essential. Factors to consider include the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of public transit routes, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport.

Individuals with hypertension should prioritize locations with easy access to healthcare facilities, reliable public transit, and readily available ride-sharing services. Understanding the nuances of the transportation network is crucial for ensuring timely appointments, medication refills, and preventative care. This comprehensive assessment of transportation options will empower residents to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare access.