18848, Towanda, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18848, Towanda, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.36 percent of residents in 18848 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Robert Packer Hospital with a distance of 14.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Towanda, PA (ZIP Code 18848)

Considering a move to Towanda, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18848)? This charming Bradford County town offers a peaceful lifestyle, but understanding the realities of healthcare access, particularly for those managing hypertension, is crucial. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, a vital component of effective hypertension management. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of your ability to reach essential medical care.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is regular access to medical professionals. This includes physician appointments, medication refills, and monitoring of blood pressure. The availability and ease of transportation directly impact your ability to adhere to these critical components of care. This analysis provides a framework to understand the challenges and opportunities in Towanda, allowing you to make an informed decision about your move.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary artery through Towanda is **U.S. Route 6**, a major east-west thoroughfare. This route provides access to several healthcare facilities, including the Guthrie Towanda Hospital, a key destination for medical care. Driving to the hospital from various points within the 18848 ZIP code typically takes between 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your specific location within the town. Rush hour traffic, though generally light compared to urban areas, can slightly extend these drive times.

**Pennsylvania Route 220** is another important road, running north-south and connecting Towanda to surrounding communities. Travel times to healthcare providers outside of Towanda, such as those in Sayre or Athens, can range from 20 to 40 minutes via Route 220. This necessitates careful planning, especially for those with time-sensitive medical needs.

**Local Roads:** Within Towanda, roads like **Main Street** and **Pine Street** offer direct access to the hospital and other medical offices. However, these roads can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially adding a few minutes to your travel time.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Towanda are limited but exist. The **Bradford County Transit Authority (BCTA)** provides bus services within the county. While the BCTA serves Towanda, the frequency of routes and the areas covered might not be ideal for frequent medical appointments. The BCTA offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The availability of fixed-route buses can be a lifeline for those without personal vehicles. However, the schedules might not align perfectly with doctor's appointments, potentially requiring careful coordination and planning. Confirming route numbers and schedules is essential before relying on public transit for healthcare access. This is an important factor when considering moving to Towanda.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the Towanda area, although their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote areas. This means that relying solely on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs might not be the most reliable option.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport companies, offer specialized transportation options for those with mobility limitations or other health conditions. These services are particularly crucial for individuals with hypertension who may experience mobility issues or require assistance during travel.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Towanda, 18848, reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. While the town offers some advantages, such as relatively short drive times to the Guthrie Towanda Hospital, challenges exist. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services require careful consideration.

The score considers the ease of access to medical facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the availability of specialized services. Individuals with hypertension require consistent access to medical care, and the transportation landscape in Towanda directly impacts their ability to maintain this access.

**Factors impacting the score:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** The Guthrie Towanda Hospital is a major asset, offering a range of services.
* **Drive Times:** Short drive times within Towanda are a significant advantage.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Limited public transit options can be a barrier.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** Inconsistent ride-sharing availability poses a challenge.
* **Medical Transport Services:** The availability of medical transport is crucial for those with mobility issues.

**Recommendations for individuals with hypertension considering a move to Towanda:**

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate your current transportation situation and consider whether you will have access to a personal vehicle.
* **Explore Public Transit Options:** Familiarize yourself with the BCTA routes and schedules.
* **Investigate Ride-Sharing Availability:** Check the availability of Uber and Lyft in your potential neighborhood.
* **Research Medical Transport Services:** Identify local medical transport providers and understand their services and costs.
* **Factor in Appointment Scheduling:** When scheduling appointments, consider the transportation time and potential delays.

**Conclusion:**

Towanda, Pennsylvania, offers a peaceful environment. However, a thorough understanding of transportation options is critical for individuals managing hypertension. While short drive times to the local hospital are a significant advantage, the limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services require careful planning. By considering the factors outlined in this "Hypertension Score" assessment, individuals can make informed decisions about their move and ensure they can maintain consistent access to essential healthcare services. This is a crucial element when considering moving to Towanda.