19134, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 19134, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.91 percent of residents in 19134 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Christopher's Hospital For Children with a distance of 1.29 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19134

Considering a move to Philadelphia, particularly the 19134 ZIP code? This area, encompassing parts of North Philadelphia, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up offers a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. It's crucial to understand these factors before settling in, as efficient transportation is paramount in managing chronic conditions like high blood pressure.

The 19134 area is predominantly residential, characterized by a mix of row houses and apartment buildings. It's nestled amongst major thoroughfares, but navigating these roads, and the public transportation that services them, presents its own complexities. This score analyzes various transportation modalities, weighing their accessibility, reliability, and overall suitability for residents needing regular medical attention.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

Driving is a prevalent mode of transportation in Philadelphia, yet congestion and parking availability can significantly impact healthcare access. Major arteries like Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1) and Broad Street (PA-611) are critical for navigating the city. From the heart of 19134, accessing hospitals and clinics involves varying drive times.

Temple University Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is generally a 10-20 minute drive, depending on traffic. The journey typically involves navigating Broad Street or heading west on Hunting Park Avenue. Driving north on Roosevelt Boulevard offers another option, but traffic can be heavy. Jefferson Health's Frankford Hospital, located further northeast, might take 20-30 minutes via Roosevelt Boulevard or the I-95 corridor.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians within the ZIP code itself are often more accessible, potentially reducing drive times to under 10 minutes. However, the availability of specialized care might necessitate longer trips. Consider the impact of rush hour, particularly on weekday mornings and evenings, which can significantly extend travel times and potentially delay crucial medical appointments.

Parking, especially near hospitals, can be another hurdle. Parking garages and street parking options exist, but costs and availability vary. This factor adds an additional layer of stress for individuals managing hypertension, where minimizing stress is vital.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City’s Veins**

Philadelphia's public transportation system, operated by SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), provides a vital link to healthcare access for many residents. Several bus routes service 19134, including the 23, 56, and 75, connecting residents to hospitals, clinics, and other essential services.

The 23 bus, running along Germantown Avenue, offers a north-south route. The 56 bus, traversing Hunting Park Avenue, offers an east-west option. The 75 bus, traveling along Wyoming Avenue, provides another east-west connection. These routes, while offering accessibility, are subject to delays, particularly during peak hours.

SEPTA also operates the Broad Street Line subway, which has stations within reasonable proximity to 19134. Reaching the Broad Street Line requires a bus transfer or a walk, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. The subway offers a faster and more reliable option compared to surface transportation, especially during rush hour.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. SEPTA has made significant strides in improving accessibility, with elevators and ramps available at many stations and on newer buses. However, older buses and some subway stations may still present challenges. Confirming ADA accessibility for specific routes and stations is essential for those with mobility needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Healthcare Access**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an on-demand transportation alternative. They can be particularly useful for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to navigate public transit. The availability of these services in 19134 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and other specialized providers, cater specifically to individuals needing assistance with medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles. They are especially beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

**Hypertension Score Considerations: A Holistic Approach**

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a simple numerical value. It's a comprehensive assessment considering the interplay of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. The ideal score reflects a combination of factors: proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the ability to manage costs.

For residents of 19134 managing hypertension, the score is impacted by several factors. The reliance on public transit, while providing accessibility, is subject to potential delays. Driving offers more control but can be affected by traffic and parking challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenience but come with associated costs.

The proximity of primary care physicians and clinics within the ZIP code can positively influence the score, minimizing travel times for routine check-ups. The availability of specialized care, however, might necessitate longer journeys.

**Moving to Philadelphia: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering a move to Philadelphia, particularly 19134, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. This understanding directly impacts the ability to manage hypertension effectively.

Before making a decision, prospective residents should:

* **Assess their individual needs:** Consider their mobility limitations, financial resources, and the frequency of medical appointments.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify preferred hospitals, clinics, and specialists.
* **Explore transportation options:** Evaluate the feasibility of driving, utilizing public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.
* **Consider proximity:** Prioritize housing locations with easy access to healthcare facilities and reliable transportation.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure seamless healthcare access, promoting better health outcomes and a smoother transition to life in Philadelphia. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a guide, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and informed decision-making when it comes to healthcare access in the 19134 ZIP code.