19149, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 19149, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.54 percent of residents in 19149 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Nazareth Hospital with a distance of 2.30 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19149

The quest for accessible healthcare, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension, is a critical consideration when contemplating a move. Understanding the transportation landscape within a specific ZIP code, such as Philadelphia's 19149, is paramount. This write-up delves into the transportation options available for residents of 19149 seeking healthcare, focusing on their impact on healthcare access and how they might influence decisions for those considering moving to Philadelphia. The goal is to provide a "Hypertension Score" assessment, reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching medical appointments.

The 19149 ZIP code, encompassing the vibrant neighborhoods of Eastwick and Southwest Philadelphia, presents a unique transportation challenge. The area is bordered by major roadways, offering both opportunities and potential obstacles. The proximity to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) adds another layer to the transportation matrix. For individuals managing hypertension, timely and reliable access to medical care is not just a convenience; it is a necessity.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains a prevalent mode of transportation in 19149. Several major roadways crisscross the area, providing direct routes to various healthcare facilities. The primary arteries include the I-95, a major north-south thoroughfare, and the I-76 (Schuylkill Expressway), connecting to Center City and beyond. The often-congested I-95 can lead to significant delays, particularly during peak hours.

Furthermore, the local roads, such as Lindbergh Boulevard and Island Avenue, serve as crucial connectors to hospitals and clinics. Drive times to major healthcare providers, like the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) or the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), can vary significantly depending on traffic. A typical drive to HUP, located in West Philadelphia, could take anywhere from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions on I-76.

**Public Transit: Navigating the SEPTA Network**

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides public transit options in 19149. Several bus routes serve the area, offering a more affordable alternative to driving. The 37, 52, and 108 bus routes are particularly relevant, providing connections to key destinations, including hospitals and medical centers.

SEPTA's bus network, while extensive, has its limitations. Travel times can be longer than driving, and the frequency of service may not always align with medical appointment schedules. Furthermore, while SEPTA strives to provide accessible services, including ADA-compliant features like ramps and priority seating, the availability of these features on all buses needs to be considered.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or other healthcare needs, are also available. Companies like Logisticare and Veyo specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, eligibility criteria and prior scheduling are often required.

**Healthcare Access: Evaluating the "Hypertension Score"**

Evaluating the transportation options in 19149 allows us to formulate a "Hypertension Score." This score considers the ease and reliability of accessing healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The score would be lower (indicating more challenges) for individuals reliant on public transit, particularly those with mobility limitations. The score would be higher (indicating better access) for those who can drive or utilize ride-sharing services. The availability of medical transportation services, while beneficial, also needs to be factored in, as these services often require pre-planning.

**Moving to Philadelphia: Weighing the Transportation Equation**

For those considering moving to Philadelphia and specifically to 19149, the transportation landscape is a crucial factor. Individuals with hypertension need to assess their ability to consistently and reliably access their healthcare providers. This assessment should include a realistic evaluation of their transportation needs, the cost of various options, and the potential impact on their health management.

The proximity to major roadways like I-95 and I-76 offers the convenience of driving. However, the potential for traffic congestion needs to be carefully considered. SEPTA's bus routes provide an affordable alternative, but travel times and accessibility limitations should be acknowledged. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer on-demand solutions but come with associated costs and scheduling requirements.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Approach**

The "Hypertension Score" is not a static number. It should be personalized, reflecting an individual's specific needs and circumstances. Factors such as mobility limitations, financial constraints, and the frequency of medical appointments all influence the score. For those considering moving to 19149, a thorough investigation of the available transportation options is essential. Understanding the challenges and opportunities will allow for informed decisions, ensuring that healthcare access remains a priority. The goal is to find the optimal balance between convenience, cost, and reliability, allowing residents to prioritize their health and well-being within the vibrant community of 19149.