19043, Holmes, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 19043, Holmes, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.28 percent of residents in 19043 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Catholic Medical Center- Mercy Fitzgerald with a distance of 2.85 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Holmes, PA (ZIP Code 19043)

The quiet residential community of Holmes, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 19043, offers a haven for families and individuals seeking a tranquil suburban lifestyle. Yet, beneath the veneer of peaceful streets and well-maintained homes lies a crucial consideration for residents, especially those managing or at risk of hypertension: **healthcare access**. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within and around Holmes, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach vital medical appointments, particularly those related to managing high blood pressure. We'll assess the challenges and opportunities for **healthcare access**, providing a "Hypertension Score" based on the available transportation options.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment of the accessibility of healthcare resources. It considers factors like travel time, mode of transport, and the availability of specialized services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and advantages faced by Holmes residents when seeking timely and convenient medical care, especially for a condition like hypertension, which requires consistent monitoring and treatment.

For individuals managing hypertension, regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist visits are essential. The ability to access these services promptly and efficiently is paramount. A lack of convenient transportation can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. This write-up aims to illuminate the transportation realities within 19043, enabling residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

The primary mode of transportation in Holmes is undoubtedly the private vehicle. The area is well-connected by a network of roads, facilitating relatively quick access to healthcare facilities. The key arteries for navigating the region are the **Interstate 95 (I-95)**, the **Blue Route (I-476)**, and **US Route 1 (City Avenue)**. These highways provide efficient routes to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices located in surrounding areas, like Philadelphia and Delaware County.

From Holmes, a drive to the closest major hospital, **Crozer-Chester Medical Center** in Upland, typically takes around 15-20 minutes via **I-95 South**. The **Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP)**, a renowned medical institution in Philadelphia, is accessible via **I-95 North**, with a drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, **Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital** in Darby is reachable within 10-15 minutes via **MacDade Boulevard** and **Chester Pike**. These drive times assume normal traffic conditions.

However, rush hour congestion, particularly on **I-95**, can significantly extend travel times. This is a critical consideration for those with hypertension, as prolonged travel can exacerbate stress and potentially impact blood pressure levels. Furthermore, the reliance on a private vehicle poses challenges for individuals without access to a car, those with mobility limitations, or those who prefer not to drive.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

Public transportation options in Holmes, while present, offer a less direct and often more time-consuming route to healthcare facilities. The **Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)** provides bus service in the area. Several bus routes, including the **113**, **114**, and **115**, traverse through Holmes and connect to neighboring towns and transportation hubs.

The **113** route, for instance, travels along **MacDade Boulevard**, offering access to various medical offices and pharmacies. The **114** connects to the **Darby Transportation Center**, providing connections to the **SEPTA Regional Rail** lines, which can facilitate travel to Philadelphia hospitals. The **115** route runs along **Chester Pike**, offering access to medical facilities in the surrounding areas.

However, the frequency of these bus routes can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends. This can lead to longer wait times and increased travel durations. Moreover, the bus routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, requiring transfers and increased walking distances.

**ADA Accessibility:**

SEPTA is committed to providing accessible services for individuals with disabilities. All SEPTA buses are equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. Furthermore, SEPTA offers a **Reduced Fare Program** for seniors and individuals with disabilities, making public transportation more affordable. However, the accessibility of bus stops themselves can vary, and some may lack adequate ramps or accessible pathways.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without access to a car or who prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing for greater flexibility in scheduling appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, like **CareRide** and **MedRide**, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may have limited availability.

**The "Hypertension Score" for Holmes, PA (19043):**

Based on the analysis, the "Hypertension Score" for Holmes, PA, reflects a mixed landscape. The area benefits from a well-connected road network, providing relatively quick access to healthcare facilities by car. However, the reliance on private vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the cost of ride-sharing services present challenges for some residents.

The score is impacted by the fact that Holmes is a suburban community, and therefore, the reliance on cars is high. Public transportation offers a viable, albeit less convenient, alternative. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide additional options, but their cost and availability must be considered.

**Moving to Holmes:**

For individuals considering moving to Holmes, particularly those managing hypertension, it's crucial to carefully evaluate the transportation options and their potential impact on healthcare access. The proximity to major highways is a definite advantage for those who drive. However, potential residents should also assess their reliance on public transportation or ride-sharing services and factor in the associated costs and travel times.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Holmes highlights the importance of planning and preparation. By understanding the transportation landscape and its limitations, residents can proactively manage their healthcare needs and ensure timely access to essential medical services. This proactive approach is key to maintaining good health and well-being in this peaceful suburban community.