17005, Berrysburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17005, Berrysburg, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.55 percent of residents in 17005 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 23.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17005

The quaint borough of Berrysburg, nestled in Pennsylvania's Dauphin County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 17005 requires a deep dive into a critical aspect of well-being: healthcare access. This analysis considers the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, factoring in various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and ride-sharing services.

The geographical realities of Berrysburg present a unique challenge. The community is surrounded by rolling hills and rural landscapes, influencing transportation dynamics. This impacts healthcare access, as residents must navigate significant distances to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical services. The health score reflects the ability of individuals to overcome these geographical barriers, ensuring timely and convenient access to essential medical care.

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

For many Berrysburg residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The ability to navigate the local roadways directly impacts healthcare access. The most direct route to Harrisburg, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities, involves traveling south on **Route 225**. This route, while scenic, can be subject to traffic, especially during peak commuting hours.

Further travel to larger hospitals like UPMC Harrisburg or Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center requires connecting to major highways. From Route 225, motorists can merge onto **Interstate 81**, a major north-south artery. The drive to Harrisburg via I-81 typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **Route 325** to reach **Interstate 81**, providing another option for accessing healthcare facilities. This route might offer slightly different travel times depending on the specific destination and traffic flow. The condition of these roadways, including seasonal maintenance and potential for delays due to weather, further influences the accessibility score.

The drive to Hershey, home to a renowned medical center, involves navigating a more complex network of roads. Travelers would typically utilize **Route 325** to **Route 443** and then connect to **Interstate 81** or **Route 322**. This journey can take upwards of an hour, highlighting the importance of considering travel time when assessing healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Critical Considerations**

Public transportation options in Berrysburg and the surrounding areas are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access. The absence of a robust public transit system necessitates reliance on personal vehicles or alternative means. However, for individuals without access to a car, or those unable to drive due to physical limitations, public transit becomes vital.

The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system, serving the Harrisburg area, offers some potential routes. However, CAT's reach into Berrysburg is minimal. Residents would likely need to travel to a central location, such as a park-and-ride facility, to access CAT services. This additional travel adds to the overall commute time and can create barriers to healthcare access.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities. CAT provides ADA-compliant services, ensuring that those with mobility challenges can utilize the system. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long travel times remain significant concerns.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a potential solution for healthcare transportation. However, their availability in rural areas like Berrysburg is often limited. Ride-sharing services may be less readily available, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in healthcare access. These services cater to individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions or disabilities. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical components of the health score.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Ambulance Services:** Primarily provided by local emergency medical services (EMS) and volunteer fire companies. Response times vary depending on location and call volume.
* **Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT):** Several providers serve the region, including:
* **Medical Transportation Services (MTS):** Offers transportation for medical appointments, dialysis, and other healthcare needs.
* **First Transit:** Provides NEMT services, often contracted by insurance providers.
* **Other local and regional providers:** Availability and service areas vary.

**Overall Health Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 17005 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the availability of personal vehicles provides a degree of flexibility, the distances to medical facilities and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides a crucial safety net, but their reliability and cost can be significant considerations.

For individuals considering moving to Berrysburg, the health score should be a key factor. The ability to access timely and convenient medical care is essential for overall well-being. Residents with chronic health conditions, mobility limitations, or those without access to a personal vehicle may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare.

The health score can be improved through various initiatives. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing services, and promoting the availability of medical transport options would significantly enhance healthcare access. Furthermore, community-based programs that provide transportation assistance or offer telehealth services can play a vital role in bridging the gap.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 17005 reflects a mixed landscape. While residents have options, the challenges of distance, limited public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles must be carefully considered. Improving healthcare access requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on transportation infrastructure, community support, and innovative solutions to ensure that all residents can receive the medical care they need.