19054, Levittown, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 19054, Levittown, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.70 percent of residents in 19054 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lower Bucks Hospital with a distance of 4.99 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 19054

The quest for optimal health, especially when managing conditions like hypertension, necessitates a deep understanding of healthcare access. For residents of ZIP Code 19054, encompassing the heart of Levittown, Pennsylvania, this understanding hinges on the intricacies of transportation. This write-up, a "Hypertension Score" assessment, explores the transportation landscape, weighing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services to gauge the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical appointments and pharmacies. This analysis is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Levittown, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health.

The cornerstone of transportation in 19054 is the automobile. The major arteries, the core infrastructure, are crucial. The iconic **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276)**, while offering swift passage, often comes with tolls, adding to the financial burden of healthcare. **US Route 13 (Bristol Pike)**, a bustling commercial corridor, provides numerous access points to local businesses and medical facilities, but can be congested during peak hours. **US Route 1 (Roosevelt Boulevard)**, a major thoroughfare, offers access to Philadelphia and its extensive healthcare resources, but the commute can be lengthy, particularly during rush hour. **New Falls Road** and **Hulmeville Road** serve as crucial connectors, providing access to local hospitals and specialist offices.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and time of day. For example, a visit to **Lower Bucks Hospital** on Bath Road, a common choice for residents, might take approximately 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this commute could easily stretch to 25-30 minutes. Reaching hospitals in Philadelphia, such as **Jefferson Torresdale Hospital** or the **Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania**, could take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic conditions on US Route 1 or the Pennsylvania Turnpike. This time commitment significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," as it affects the patient's ability to adhere to appointment schedules and manage their condition effectively.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with its own set of challenges. **SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority)** provides bus service within the area. Several routes serve 19054, including the **Route 128** and the **Route 130**, which connect to various healthcare facilities and regional rail lines. The **Route 128** runs along Bristol Pike, providing access to many local businesses and medical offices. The **Route 130** travels through the heart of Levittown, offering convenient access to local services.

However, the frequency of these buses can be a limiting factor, particularly during evenings and weekends. Furthermore, while SEPTA strives for accessibility, ensuring ADA compliance, the availability of accessible routes and the reliability of elevators and ramps at all stops and transfer points is a constant concern. The "Hypertension Score" must account for the limitations of public transit, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, like **Uber** and **Lyft**, offer a more flexible option, especially for those who do not drive or prefer not to navigate traffic. These services are readily available in 19054, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical visits. The "Hypertension Score" must consider the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access.

Beyond ride-sharing, medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medical Transportation Services** provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, easing the burden for patients with mobility limitations. While these services can be invaluable, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "Hypertension Score" in 19054 must also factor in the proximity of pharmacies. Access to medication is crucial for managing hypertension. Numerous pharmacies, including **CVS**, **Walgreens**, and independent pharmacies, are located within the ZIP Code, accessible by car, public transit, or ride-sharing. The availability of these pharmacies and their operating hours contribute positively to the "Hypertension Score."

Furthermore, the presence of urgent care facilities, such as **Patient First** and **AFC Urgent Care**, provides immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions. These facilities offer an alternative to emergency room visits, potentially reducing wait times and improving healthcare access. The accessibility of these urgent care facilities, considering transportation options, positively impacts the "Hypertension Score."

The "Hypertension Score" is not merely a numerical rating; it's a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. It acknowledges the advantages and disadvantages of each transportation mode, considering factors like cost, time, accessibility, and reliability. For individuals considering moving to Levittown, this score serves as a vital tool, enabling them to make informed decisions about their healthcare management.

The "Hypertension Score" for 19054 is a dynamic measure. It must be periodically reevaluated, considering potential changes in transportation infrastructure, public transit schedules, and the availability of healthcare services. It is also influenced by individual circumstances, such as mobility limitations, financial constraints, and personal preferences.

In conclusion, navigating healthcare access in 19054 requires a multifaceted approach. While the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation, the availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options provides a safety net for those who cannot or choose not to drive. The "Hypertension Score" reflects this complexity, highlighting the importance of understanding the transportation landscape to effectively manage hypertension and ensure optimal healthcare access for all residents of Levittown. This is particularly important for those considering moving to Levittown, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health and wellbeing in their new home.