19026, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 19026, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.62 percent of residents in 19026 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Delaware County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.01 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Drexel Hill (ZIP Code 19026)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of spring in Drexel Hill, a verdant suburb nestled within Delaware County, Pennsylvania. For those considering a move to this desirable locale, especially individuals managing asthma, understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 19026, offering a detailed assessment of healthcare access, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options. This information will allow prospective residents to make informed decisions, ensuring their health needs are readily met.

The primary concern for asthmatics is the speed and reliability of reaching medical care during an exacerbation. In Drexel Hill, the proximity to quality healthcare facilities is a significant advantage. Crozer-Chester Medical Center, a comprehensive hospital, is a reasonable drive away, typically accessible via the **Baltimore Pike (US-1)**. During off-peak hours, the journey can be completed in approximately 15-20 minutes. However, the Baltimore Pike is notorious for congestion, particularly during rush hour. Commuting during peak times, such as weekday mornings and evenings, could extend the travel time to 30-45 minutes. This underscores the importance of considering traffic patterns when evaluating healthcare access.

Another crucial healthcare destination is the Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital in Darby, Pennsylvania. This hospital is accessible via **Garrett Road** and **Springfield Road**. The drive time is generally shorter than to Crozer-Chester, averaging 10-15 minutes during non-peak hours. However, similar to the Baltimore Pike, these roads can experience significant traffic congestion, especially around the Springfield Mall area. The availability of multiple hospital options is a boon, providing flexibility and potentially reducing travel times depending on the severity of the condition and the time of day.

Public transportation offers a viable alternative for those who prefer to avoid driving or who may not have access to a personal vehicle. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides extensive bus service throughout Drexel Hill. The **Route 102 trolley** offers a direct connection to the 69th Street Transportation Center, a major hub with connections to the Market-Frankford Line (subway) and various bus routes. This provides access to hospitals in Philadelphia, including the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP).

The SEPTA bus routes serving Drexel Hill include the **Route 101**, **Route 103**, and **Route 107**. These routes provide access to various medical offices and facilities within the surrounding areas. It is essential to note that SEPTA buses are generally ADA-accessible, featuring ramps or lifts for passengers with mobility impairments. This is a critical consideration for asthmatics who may experience breathing difficulties or require assistance. However, public transportation can be subject to delays, especially during inclement weather or peak travel times.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who require immediate access to medical care. These services provide on-demand transportation, often with relatively short wait times. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it offers a convenient alternative to driving or waiting for public transit. This can be particularly beneficial during emergencies when time is of the essence.

Medical transportation services, such as medical transport companies, offer specialized services for patients who require assistance with transportation. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services may be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, they can provide peace of mind for individuals with specific medical needs.

When considering a move to Drexel Hill, prospective residents should factor in the availability of healthcare facilities, the accessibility of transportation options, and the potential impact of traffic congestion. The drive times to hospitals and medical offices can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the specific route taken. Public transportation offers a cost-effective alternative, but it can be subject to delays. Ride-sharing services provide a convenient on-demand option, while medical transportation services cater to specific medical needs.

The proximity of Drexel Hill to Philadelphia also provides access to a wide range of specialized medical services and facilities. This is a significant advantage for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma, who may require specialized care. The ability to quickly and reliably access these services is crucial for managing asthma and maintaining a good quality of life.

In assessing the "Asthma Score" for Drexel Hill, it is important to consider the overall accessibility of healthcare, the reliability of transportation options, and the potential for delays. The presence of multiple hospitals, the availability of public transit, and the convenience of ride-sharing services all contribute to a favorable score. However, the potential for traffic congestion on major roadways should also be considered.

For asthmatics, the ability to quickly and reliably access medical care is paramount. The combination of multiple hospitals, SEPTA bus routes, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services makes Drexel Hill a relatively accessible location. However, prospective residents should carefully assess their individual needs and preferences, considering factors such as their reliance on public transit, their ability to drive, and their tolerance for traffic congestion.

The availability of healthcare access is a crucial factor in the overall quality of life in any community. In Drexel Hill, the combination of proximity to hospitals, public transportation options, and ride-sharing services provides a reasonable level of healthcare access for individuals with asthma. By carefully evaluating these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure their healthcare needs are met.

The ability to navigate the transportation landscape and quickly reach medical care is critical for managing asthma effectively. Drexel Hill offers a blend of options, from driving on the Baltimore Pike to utilizing the SEPTA routes, allowing residents to tailor their transportation choices to their specific needs. The ultimate "Asthma Score" for Drexel Hill is positive, reflecting a community that prioritizes healthcare access and provides a range of transportation options to support its residents.