18962, Silverdale, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 18962, Silverdale, Pennsylvania is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.21 percent of residents in 18962 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grand View Health with a distance of 3.19 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Silverdale (18962)

Silverdale, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18962), a charming community nestled in Bucks County, offers a desirable quality of life, drawing individuals and families seeking a blend of tranquility and convenience. However, when considering a move, particularly for those managing hypertension, a critical factor emerges: **healthcare access**. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" framework, evaluating the ease of **transportation** to essential medical services, empowering informed decisions.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. This is paramount for individuals managing hypertension, requiring regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care. Understanding the logistical landscape of accessing these services is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Silverdale's geographical location dictates primary **transportation** routes. For residents, accessing healthcare often begins with navigating local roads. The primary arteries are Route 313 (Dublin Pike) and Route 113 (Harleysville Pike). These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, impacting drive times to medical facilities.

For specialized care or hospitals, the primary destinations are Doylestown Hospital (approximately 15-20 minutes via Route 313 and Route 611) and Grand View Hospital in Sellersville (roughly 10-15 minutes via Route 313 and Route 113). These drive times are estimates and can fluctuate significantly based on traffic conditions. The presence of traffic signals and intersections along these routes can add to the overall travel duration.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276) offers a faster, albeit toll-based, option for reaching healthcare facilities further afield, such as hospitals in Philadelphia or surrounding areas. However, this route adds a financial burden and might not be the most practical for routine appointments.

**Public Transit and Accessibility:**

Public transit options in Silverdale are limited, which poses a challenge for those relying on this mode of **transportation**. SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) provides bus service in the area. Route 132, while not directly serving Silverdale, connects to nearby towns with potential transfer points. Route 132 offers a connection to the Lansdale/Doylestown Regional Rail line, providing access to Philadelphia.

However, the frequency of these bus routes can be infrequent, especially during evenings and weekends. This limitation necessitates careful planning and consideration of appointment times. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features (wheelchair accessibility, audio announcements) should be confirmed for each route and vehicle.

The lack of robust public **transportation** presents a significant hurdle for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. This impacts healthcare access, potentially leading to missed appointments and delayed care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Silverdale area. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to medical conditions. However, ride-sharing availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can also increase costs.

Medical transport services offer specialized **transportation** for individuals requiring assistance. These services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare needs. Several companies operate in the region, including Liberty Medical Transportation and First Choice Medical Transportation.

These services are often covered by insurance, but prior authorization may be required. Understanding the specific requirements and limitations of these services is essential for planning healthcare appointments.

**Hypertension Score Considerations:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Silverdale (18962) is influenced by several factors. The proximity to healthcare facilities is a positive factor, with Grand View Hospital and Doylestown Hospital within relatively short driving distances. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges.

The score is further impacted by the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transport. While these options provide viable alternatives, their accessibility and affordability must be considered.

For individuals managing hypertension, the score should reflect the need for reliable and timely access to medical care. This includes routine check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care. The score should also consider the potential for unexpected delays due to traffic or **transportation** limitations.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

When considering a move to Silverdale, individuals with hypertension should prioritize a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends for assistance, and the feasibility of utilizing ride-sharing or medical transport services.

It's crucial to research the specific healthcare providers in the area and their appointment scheduling policies. Understanding the potential wait times and the ease of rescheduling appointments is essential.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Silverdale is not a static number but a dynamic assessment. It reflects the individual's specific needs and circumstances. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this analysis, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure their well-being. Moving to Silverdale offers a lot, but a well-planned **transportation** strategy is crucial for maintaining good health.