18825, Jackson, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18825, Jackson, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.72 percent of residents in 18825 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18825

Considering a move to Jackson, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18825)? Understanding healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is crucial. This write-up provides a detailed 'Hypertension Score' assessment, analyzing transportation options to medical facilities within and around this rural community. The goal is to illuminate the realities of **healthcare access** and how **transportation** infrastructure impacts the lives of those seeking care, especially concerning the management of high blood pressure.

The 'Hypertension Score' is a composite metric. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and specialized medical transport services. The higher the score, the better the overall accessibility to healthcare resources. Factors like road quality, traffic patterns, and the presence of ADA-compliant transportation are all incorporated. This analysis is designed to empower potential residents to make informed decisions, ensuring a smoother transition into the community and providing a clearer picture of **moving to Jackson**.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of **transportation** in 18825. The area is characterized by a network of rural roads and highways. The primary thoroughfare is **Interstate 81**, which provides access to larger medical centers in Scranton and Binghamton. Expect a drive time of approximately 45-60 minutes to reach Scranton, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Binghamton is further, requiring a drive of around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Local travel relies heavily on **US Route 6**, which connects smaller towns and provides access to local pharmacies and clinics. Travel on Route 6 is generally smoother, but it can be subject to seasonal variations in traffic volume. **Pennsylvania Route 4005** provides a direct route to the town of Montrose, offering additional healthcare options.

Road conditions can vary. While major highways are generally well-maintained, secondary roads may experience potholes or limited winter maintenance, particularly in the more remote areas. This can impact travel times and potentially pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those relying on less robust vehicles.

**Public Transit:**

Public **transportation** options in 18825 are limited. Susquehanna County, where Jackson is located, does not have a comprehensive public bus system. However, there are some options for those without personal vehicles.

The **Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS)**, based in Scranton, provides some limited services that might reach the outskirts of the county. However, these routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting to Scranton. Access to these routes would require travel to a central point, adding considerable travel time. The **LCTS** does offer ADA-compliant vehicles.

For those seeking public transit, the reliance on neighboring counties and their services presents a significant hurdle. Travel times are extended, and the frequency of service can be unreliable, making it a less than ideal option for those requiring regular medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, but their presence in 18825 is inconsistent. Availability is heavily influenced by demand and driver density. While they may be an option for occasional trips, relying on them for regular medical appointments can be risky due to potential delays or unavailability, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Specialized medical **transportation** services are available. These services cater specifically to individuals with mobility issues or those who require assistance with their medical appointments. Companies like **CareRide** and **MedTrans** offer door-to-door service, often with trained personnel to assist with patient needs. However, these services come at a premium cost and require advance booking, which can create challenges for urgent or unscheduled medical needs.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The 'Hypertension Score' for 18825 reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare. The score is moderately impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options. While drive times to major medical centers are manageable, the lack of readily available alternative **transportation** methods creates a potential barrier for those without reliable personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations.

The availability of ride-share services is inconsistent, and the cost of specialized medical **transportation** can be prohibitive for some. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, impacting the management of hypertension and other chronic conditions.

**Implications for Individuals with Hypertension:**

For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access to medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist consultations, is paramount. The **transportation** landscape in 18825 presents several considerations.

* **Reliance on personal vehicles:** Individuals without a personal vehicle may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare.
* **Limited public transit:** The lack of a robust public transit system restricts access for those who cannot drive.
* **Ride-share limitations:** The inconsistent availability of ride-share services can impact appointment reliability.
* **Cost of medical transport:** The expense of specialized medical **transportation** can be a financial burden.

**Recommendations:**

Potential residents with hypertension should carefully assess their **transportation** needs. Consider the following:

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** Evaluate the distance to primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies.
* **Vehicle reliability:** Ensure access to a reliable vehicle and consider the costs of maintenance and fuel.
* **Alternative transportation options:** Research the availability and cost of ride-share services and medical **transportation**.
* **Community resources:** Explore local community programs that may offer assistance with **transportation** or medical expenses.

**Conclusion:**

The 'Hypertension Score' for 18825 highlights the importance of careful planning when considering a move to this rural community. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the challenges of **healthcare access** are real. Individuals managing hypertension must proactively address their **transportation** needs to ensure consistent access to medical care. Thorough research, careful planning, and a realistic assessment of personal circumstances are critical for a successful transition and the continued management of their health. This information is vital when considering **moving to Jackson**.