19029, Essington, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 19029, Essington, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.26 percent of residents in 19029 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crozer Chester Medical Center with a distance of 3.66 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Essington (ZIP Code 19029)

Considering a move to Essington, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19029)? Beyond the charm of this Delaware County community, understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially concerning hypertension. This write-up explores the "Hypertension Score" for Essington, evaluating transportation options to essential medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing/medical transport services, all critical for managing hypertension effectively.

Essington's location, nestled near the Delaware River and Philadelphia International Airport, presents a unique transportation landscape. The proximity to major roadways and the availability of public transit significantly influence healthcare access. This analysis will help prospective residents understand the realities of navigating transportation to doctors' appointments, pharmacies, and specialized care, crucial for individuals managing hypertension.

**The Significance of the Hypertension Score**

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a prevalent condition requiring consistent monitoring and treatment. Timely access to healthcare, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist consultations, is vital for effective management. The "Hypertension Score" aims to quantify the ease with which residents of 19029 can access these vital services, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure. A high score indicates easier access, while a low score suggests potential difficulties.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times**

For residents relying on personal vehicles, understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is essential. The primary arteries serving Essington are Interstate 95 (I-95), the Blue Route (I-476), and the Commodore Barry Bridge, providing access to New Jersey. The most direct route to hospitals and specialized clinics in the Philadelphia area often involves I-95.

For example, driving to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) in Philadelphia, a major healthcare provider, typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. During rush hour, this commute can extend significantly, potentially impacting appointment adherence. Access to Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland, PA, is usually a shorter drive, around 10-15 minutes, utilizing I-95 and Chester Pike.

The drive to primary care physicians and pharmacies located within Essington and neighboring communities like Tinicum Township and Ridley Park is generally manageable, taking 5-10 minutes. However, individuals with mobility limitations or those without personal vehicles will face greater challenges. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is also a factor, with some locations experiencing congestion during peak hours.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag**

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides public transportation options in the area. The 113 bus route is a key link for Essington residents, connecting them to various destinations, including the Chester Transportation Center. From there, connections to regional rail lines, such as the Wilmington/Newark Line, offer access to Philadelphia and other areas.

The 113 bus route offers limited service, particularly on weekends and evenings. This can pose a significant challenge for those needing to attend appointments outside of regular business hours. While SEPTA strives to provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring the accessibility of all stops and connections can be problematic. The reliability of public transit, especially during inclement weather, can also affect healthcare access.

The SEPTA Regional Rail provides another option, though it requires a transfer from the bus or a drive to a station. The closest regional rail stations are in Chester and Eddystone. This adds extra time and complexity to the journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Supplement, Not a Solution**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Essington. They can provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited access to transportation. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, making it a less affordable option for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like MedTrans or Liberty Medical Transportation, specialize in transporting individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, booking medical transport requires advance planning, and availability can be limited, especially during peak demand.

**The Hypertension Score: A Preliminary Assessment**

Based on the factors discussed, the "Hypertension Score" for Essington (19029) is moderately favorable. While the proximity to major roadways provides good access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport for those without personal vehicles pose challenges.

The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options when managing hypertension. Residents should factor in drive times, public transit schedules, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services when scheduling appointments and obtaining medication refills.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

Prospective residents considering moving to Essington, particularly those managing hypertension, should carefully assess their transportation needs. Evaluate the proximity of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and other essential services. Consider the availability and reliability of public transit and the affordability of ride-sharing services.

Individuals with mobility limitations should prioritize housing options near accessible public transit routes or within easy reach of healthcare facilities. Investigating the availability of medical transport services in advance is also recommended.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Essington**

Essington offers a blend of suburban convenience and proximity to major urban centers. For individuals managing hypertension, navigating the transportation landscape requires careful planning and a proactive approach. While the availability of personal vehicles and ride-sharing services provides options, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with these services must be considered. By understanding the nuances of healthcare access and making informed decisions about transportation, residents of 19029 can successfully manage their health and enjoy the benefits of living in this Delaware County community.