19079, Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 19079, Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.64 percent of residents in 19079 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Catholic Medical Center- Mercy Fitzgerald with a distance of 1.54 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sharon Hill (19079)

The quest for accessible healthcare, particularly for those battling arthritis, is a complex journey. This analysis, an "Arthritis Score," examines the transportation landscape within and around Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19079), a vital consideration for anyone considering moving to this Delaware County borough. The focus is on how easily residents can access medical care, considering the unique challenges posed by arthritis and the crucial role of transportation.

The impact of arthritis on daily life is profound. Simple tasks, like walking to a doctor's appointment, can become excruciating. The ability to reach healthcare providers is therefore paramount. This score will evaluate the various transportation options available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a realistic picture of healthcare access for those in need.

Sharon Hill, a small community nestled within the Philadelphia metropolitan area, benefits from its proximity to a wealth of medical resources. However, accessibility isn't solely determined by the presence of hospitals and clinics; it hinges on the efficiency and practicality of getting there. The Arthritis Score will reflect the realities of travel, acknowledging the potential for pain, limited mobility, and the need for convenient and reliable transportation.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Travel Times**

For residents of Sharon Hill with personal vehicles, the primary arteries for healthcare access are readily available. The borough itself is easily navigable, with local roads like Chester Pike (PA-13) and Sharon Avenue providing convenient access to nearby amenities. However, the true test lies in reaching larger medical centers.

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is a major landmark, and its surrounding roadways influence travel. Driving to hospitals in Philadelphia, such as the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) or Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, necessitates navigating the complexities of Interstate 95 (I-95). This highway, a major north-south artery, can be subject to heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours. Travel times to these hospitals can vary significantly, ranging from 20 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, Route 476 (the Blue Route) offers a slightly longer, but often less congested, route to hospitals located further west, such as those in Bryn Mawr or Havertown. This option might be preferable for those seeking specialized care or avoiding the potential gridlock of I-95. The drive time to these destinations typically ranges from 30 to 50 minutes.

The availability of parking at these medical facilities is another factor to consider. Many hospitals have parking garages, but these can be costly and may require significant walking distances from the parking spot to the actual appointment location. This can be a significant challenge for individuals with arthritis.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag for Healthcare Access**

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides public transportation services to Sharon Hill, offering a crucial alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The SEPTA trolley Route 102, a light rail line, runs directly through Sharon Hill, providing a convenient link to the surrounding communities. This trolley offers relatively frequent service, but it may require transfers to reach certain hospitals.

The SEPTA bus Route 113 also serves Sharon Hill, offering connections to other parts of Delaware County and Philadelphia. However, bus travel can be slower than driving or taking the trolley, and the frequency of service may be less reliable, especially during off-peak hours.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with arthritis. SEPTA has made efforts to improve accessibility across its system, including elevators and ramps at stations and accessible buses and trolleys. However, the reliability of these features and the potential for delays due to mechanical issues should be taken into account.

The journey to a hospital using public transportation can be time-consuming. Depending on the destination and the need for transfers, a trip that might take 20 minutes by car could easily stretch to an hour or more using public transit. This extended travel time can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with arthritis.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options and Limitations**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services can be readily available in Sharon Hill, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and the distance traveled, and it's important to factor this into the overall cost of healthcare.

For individuals with more significant mobility limitations, specialized medical transport services are available. These services, such as Liberty Medical Transportation and MedTrans, offer door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, making them less ideal for urgent medical needs.

The availability of these services and their coverage area is a key factor in the Arthritis Score. While ride-sharing offers convenience, medical transport provides a more specialized and accommodating option for those with severe mobility challenges.

**Evaluating the Score: Factors and Considerations**

The Arthritis Score for Sharon Hill (19079) is not a single number but a nuanced assessment based on several factors. These include:

* **Drive times:** The time required to reach major hospitals and medical centers during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public transit accessibility:** The frequency, reliability, and ADA accessibility of SEPTA services.
* **Ride-sharing availability and cost:** The ease of accessing Uber and Lyft, and the associated expenses.
* **Medical transport options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of specialized medical transport services.
* **Parking availability and cost:** The ease of finding parking at medical facilities and the associated expenses.

The score will also consider the overall cost of transportation, the potential for delays, and the physical demands of each transportation option.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Sharon Hill**

Moving to Sharon Hill offers proximity to the healthcare resources of the Philadelphia metropolitan area. However, the Arthritis Score reveals a complex transportation landscape. While personal vehicles offer the most direct access, traffic congestion and parking costs can be significant challenges. Public transit provides a valuable alternative, but it can be time-consuming and may require transfers. Ride-sharing services offer convenience, while medical transport provides specialized support for those with mobility limitations.

For individuals with arthritis considering moving to Sharon Hill, a thorough understanding of these transportation options is essential. Careful planning, consideration of individual needs, and a realistic assessment of the challenges are vital for ensuring reliable and accessible healthcare. This Arthritis Score provides a framework for making informed decisions about moving to Sharon Hill and successfully navigating the journey to healthcare.