19079, Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma 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.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Sharon Hill (19079)

Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19079), a charming borough nestled in Delaware County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to the bustling city of Philadelphia. However, for individuals managing asthma, the ease of *healthcare access* and the nuances of *transportation* become critical factors in daily life. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the realities of navigating healthcare in Sharon Hill, focusing on drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective residents and current inhabitants alike. Considering a *move to Sharon Hill*? Understanding these practicalities is essential.

The cornerstone of this analysis is the accessibility of medical care. The primary healthcare facilities serving Sharon Hill residents are located in neighboring towns and cities. Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland, a major hospital with comprehensive services, sits approximately a 10-15 minute drive away, depending on traffic. Accessing Crozer-Chester typically involves navigating Chester Pike (Route 13), a busy thoroughfare, or using a combination of local roads like Sharon Avenue and Hook Road. The drive is generally straightforward, but rush hour can significantly extend travel times.

Another crucial healthcare destination is Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital in Darby, which is a 10-15 minute drive via Chester Pike (Route 13) or MacDade Boulevard. This hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care and specialized asthma treatment. The proximity to these hospitals is a significant advantage for Sharon Hill residents, providing relatively quick access to emergency services and specialized care.

For specialist appointments and broader medical services, Philadelphia becomes a frequent destination. Driving to the renowned Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), a leading pediatric asthma center, takes approximately 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey typically involves navigating the often-congested I-95 North or using alternative routes like Route 13 and City Avenue. Similarly, accessing the University of Pennsylvania Health System, with its extensive network of specialists, also requires a drive of similar duration, often utilizing I-95 or the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76).

Public transit offers an alternative to driving, particularly for those seeking to avoid traffic or who do not own a vehicle. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides bus service to and from Sharon Hill. The Route 113 bus is a vital link, connecting Sharon Hill to the 69th Street Transportation Center, a major hub for regional rail and other bus routes. This route offers a convenient connection to Philadelphia and its various healthcare facilities.

SEPTA’s Route 113 buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. The frequency of the Route 113 bus is generally good, with buses running every 15-30 minutes during peak hours, but service can be less frequent on weekends and evenings.

The 69th Street Transportation Center serves as a gateway to a wider network of public transportation. From there, residents can access the Market-Frankford Line (the "El") which provides direct access to many hospitals and medical centers in Center City Philadelphia, including Jefferson Hospital and Pennsylvania Hospital. The regional rail lines, such as the Media/Elwyn Line, also offer convenient connections to healthcare facilities located along their routes.

For individuals with asthma, the reliability and cleanliness of public transportation are paramount. While SEPTA strives to maintain clean and well-maintained vehicles, delays and overcrowding can occur, especially during peak hours. Individuals sensitive to allergens or air quality issues should be mindful of these factors and consider wearing a mask or taking other precautions while using public transit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another *transportation* option for Sharon Hill residents. These services offer on-demand access to *transportation*, providing a convenient alternative to driving or using public transit. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for appointments when driving is not feasible or for times when public transit schedules are inconvenient. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available in the area. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare offer non-emergency medical *transportation*, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services often require pre-booking and may be covered by insurance, making them a valuable option for individuals who require specialized assistance or who are unable to use public transit or ride-sharing.

The *healthcare access* landscape in Sharon Hill is a tapestry woven with convenience and complexity. The proximity to major hospitals like Crozer-Chester and Mercy Fitzgerald offers immediate access to emergency and general medical care. However, accessing specialized care and the broader healthcare network of Philadelphia requires careful consideration of *transportation* options.

The drive times to Philadelphia hospitals and specialist offices can be significant, especially during rush hour. Public transit, particularly SEPTA's Route 113 and the connections at the 69th Street Transportation Center, offers a viable alternative, but with its own set of challenges related to reliability and air quality. Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services provide additional options, catering to specific needs and circumstances.

For individuals with asthma considering a *move to Sharon Hill*, a thorough assessment of these *transportation* factors is crucial. Weighing the convenience of proximity to hospitals against the potential challenges of commuting to Philadelphia for specialized care is essential. Understanding the nuances of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical *transportation* options will empower individuals to make informed decisions and ensure their *healthcare access* needs are met. The "Asthma Score" for Sharon Hill, therefore, reflects a balance – a community with readily available local care, but with a need to carefully plan for access to the broader medical resources of the region.