19124, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 19124, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.37 percent of residents in 19124 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Christopher's Hospital For Children with a distance of 2.07 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19124

Considering a move to Philadelphia, specifically the 19124 ZIP code? This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services for individuals managing high blood pressure, a significant health concern. The score considers various transportation options, vital for healthcare access, and their impact on timely appointments and medication refills. Living with hypertension demands consistent care; therefore, the ease of reaching medical professionals becomes paramount.

The 19124 ZIP code, encompassing the neighborhoods of Frankford, Northwood, and Lawndale, presents a mixed bag of transportation options. Its location in Northeast Philadelphia offers proximity to major roadways but also relies heavily on public transit. This blend impacts the "Hypertension Score," reflecting the potential challenges and advantages for residents seeking healthcare.

**The Road to Care: Driving and Ride-Sharing**

Driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, though traffic and parking availability must be considered. Accessing hospitals and clinics often involves navigating major arteries. The Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1) is a primary thoroughfare, connecting 19124 to various medical centers. Expect congestion, especially during peak hours. The Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276) provides a faster route to hospitals further afield, though toll costs add to the expense.

Smaller roads like Frankford Avenue and Bustleton Avenue serve as vital connectors within the neighborhood. These routes, while offering local access, can experience significant traffic delays. Consider the time of day when scheduling appointments and factor in potential delays.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating parking hassles. However, surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can significantly increase costs. Individuals with hypertension may find this an expensive option for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: Navigating the SEPTA Network**

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides extensive public transit coverage in 19124. The Market-Frankford Line (the "El") offers a rapid transit option, with stations along Frankford Avenue. This line provides a direct connection to Center City, where numerous hospitals and specialty clinics are located. However, the walk from the station to the final destination must be considered, especially for those with mobility limitations.

Several SEPTA bus routes serve the area, including the 20, 28, 50, 56, 59, and 66. These buses provide access to local healthcare facilities and connect to other transit lines. Bus travel times are generally longer than the El, and schedules can be subject to delays due to traffic.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. SEPTA has made significant strides in improving accessibility, with elevators and ramps at many stations and accessible buses. However, availability may vary, and it's essential to confirm accessibility features for specific routes and stations before traveling.

**Specialized Transportation: Medical Transport and Beyond**

For individuals with significant mobility limitations, medical transportation services offer specialized assistance. Companies like MedTrans and Logisticare provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services require pre-booking and may have eligibility requirements.

Beyond medical transportation, other options exist. Senior centers and community organizations may offer transportation assistance for medical appointments. Exploring these resources is crucial for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit independently.

**Healthcare Access: Hospitals and Clinics in Proximity**

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the proximity of healthcare facilities. Several hospitals and clinics are within a reasonable distance of 19124.

* **Jefferson Frankford Hospital:** Located within the 19124 ZIP code, this hospital offers comprehensive medical services, including cardiology and primary care.
* **Temple University Hospital:** A major academic medical center, Temple University Hospital is accessible via the Market-Frankford Line and offers specialized care.
* **Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia:** Located in the neighboring ZIP code, Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia provides a wide range of medical services, including cardiology and endocrinology.

Numerous primary care physicians and specialists are located within the area. Finding a healthcare provider accepting new patients and accessible via transportation is essential.

**The "Hypertension Score" Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for 19124 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While driving offers direct access, traffic congestion and parking limitations can pose challenges. Public transit provides affordable options, but travel times and accessibility considerations are crucial. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be expensive. Medical transportation services cater to individuals with mobility limitations.

**Factors influencing the score:**

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** The presence of hospitals and clinics within the area improves the score.
* **Transportation options:** The availability of multiple transportation modes, including driving, public transit, and ride-sharing, contributes positively.
* **Accessibility:** ADA accessibility of public transit and the availability of medical transportation services enhance the score.
* **Traffic conditions:** Traffic congestion on major roadways can negatively impact the score.
* **Cost:** The cost of transportation, particularly ride-sharing and medical transportation, can affect the score.

**Recommendations for Residents with Hypertension:**

* **Choose a primary care physician within easy reach:** Consider proximity to home and access via transportation.
* **Plan appointments strategically:** Factor in travel time and potential delays, especially when using public transit.
* **Explore all transportation options:** Weigh the pros and cons of each mode, considering cost, convenience, and accessibility.
* **Utilize available resources:** Contact senior centers and community organizations for transportation assistance.
* **Maintain open communication with your healthcare provider:** Discuss any transportation challenges and explore potential solutions.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Moving to Philadelphia, particularly 19124, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for evaluating the transportation challenges and opportunities. By understanding the available options and planning accordingly, individuals with hypertension can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure consistent access to the care they need. The key is proactive planning, exploring all available resources, and prioritizing convenient, reliable transportation to maintain optimal health.