19140, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 19140, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.64 percent of residents in 19140 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Temple University Hospital with a distance of 0.46 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 19140

Considering a move to Philadelphia's 19140 ZIP code? This area, encompassing portions of South Philadelphia, offers a vibrant tapestry of neighborhoods, from the historic Italian Market to the bustling commercial corridors. However, before settling in, it's crucial to understand the realities of healthcare access, especially for those managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical appointments, a critical factor in controlling this chronic condition.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a formal medical metric, but rather a qualitative evaluation of how easily residents in 19140 can reach essential healthcare services, particularly those specializing in hypertension management. The score considers various transportation modalities, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, weighing their accessibility, reliability, and overall convenience. A higher score indicates easier access to healthcare, while a lower score suggests potential challenges that require proactive planning.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, navigating 19140 presents a mixed bag. The area is relatively compact, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Major arteries like the **Schuylkill Expressway (I-76)**, the **Delaware Expressway (I-95)**, and **Broad Street** are crucial for reaching hospitals and specialist offices.

Traveling north on the Schuylkill Expressway offers access to hospitals in Center City and University City, while heading south on I-95 provides access to hospitals in South Philadelphia and Delaware County. Broad Street, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides access to several medical facilities along its route. Expect drive times to vary dramatically depending on the time of day. Morning and evening commutes can easily double or triple travel times, emphasizing the need for careful scheduling and route planning.

Street parking in 19140 can be challenging, especially in densely populated areas. Many medical facilities offer parking garages, but these often come with associated fees. Consider these costs when budgeting for healthcare visits. Parking availability and cost are critical considerations for individuals with mobility limitations or those who may require frequent appointments.

**Public Transportation: A Vital Lifeline:**

Philadelphia's public transportation system, operated by SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), provides a crucial alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or those seeking to avoid traffic. The **Broad Street Line (BSL)**, a subway line, runs directly through 19140, offering rapid transit to Center City hospitals and connections to other transit lines.

Several bus routes also traverse the area, including the **Route 7, Route 17, Route 27, Route 29, Route 64, and Route 79**, providing access to various medical facilities and community health centers. These bus routes offer a more extensive network, reaching areas not directly served by the BSL.

SEPTA is committed to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, with elevators and ramps available at many stations and on most buses. However, accessibility can vary, so it's essential to check the specific features of each station and route before traveling. Delays and service disruptions can occur, so planning for extra travel time is always a good idea. The convenience of public transit is a significant factor when moving to Philadelphia.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, especially for those who prefer door-to-door service. These services are readily available in 19140, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can increase costs.

For individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical transportation, several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These companies, such as **LogistiCare, Medical Transportation Management (MTM), and Access2Care**, offer door-to-door transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often require prior arrangements and may be covered by insurance for eligible patients.

**The Hypertension Score in 19140:**

Based on the assessment, the "Hypertension Score" for 19140 is moderately positive. The availability of multiple transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offers reasonable healthcare access. However, the score is tempered by the potential for traffic congestion, the variability in public transit reliability, and the cost of ride-sharing services.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to 19140, proactive planning is essential. Research the location of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, cardiologists, and pharmacies, and assess the accessibility of their offices via various transportation modes. Familiarize yourself with SEPTA routes and schedules, and consider utilizing ride-sharing services or medical transport options as needed.

When moving to Philadelphia, consider the proximity of your residence to public transit stops and healthcare facilities. Factor in the potential for traffic delays and plan for extra travel time, especially for appointments requiring punctuality. Maintain a list of emergency contact numbers and transportation resources.

By carefully considering these factors and proactively planning for transportation needs, residents of 19140 can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain access to the healthcare services they require. Prioritizing healthcare access is a key component of a healthy and fulfilling life in this vibrant Philadelphia neighborhood.