17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.37 percent of residents in 17013 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 1.36 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Carlisle, PA (ZIP Code 17013)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This comprehensive analysis delves into the transportation landscape of Carlisle, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17013), evaluating its impact on healthcare access and offering an “Overall Health Score” for residents seeking medical attention. The score considers drive times, public transportation options, and ride-sharing services, ultimately painting a picture of how easily residents can navigate the journey to vital healthcare services. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Carlisle, PA, and weighing the practicalities of daily life.

**The Overall Health Score for Commuting to Healthcare in 17013: 7.5/10**

This score reflects a relatively favorable situation, indicating reasonable access to healthcare facilities. However, it also acknowledges areas for improvement, particularly regarding public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles. The score is derived from the following factors: drive times to key healthcare providers, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation.

**Navigating the Roads: Drive Times and Accessibility**

Carlisle, Pennsylvania, is strategically positioned, offering residents relatively easy access to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries for transportation are Interstate 81 (I-81) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76). These major highways, along with U.S. Route 11 (Harrisburg Pike/Hanover Street) and various local roads, facilitate movement within the area.

Drive times to healthcare providers are generally manageable. UPMC Carlisle, the primary hospital in the area, is centrally located and easily accessible from most parts of the ZIP code. A drive to UPMC Carlisle from most locations within 17013 typically takes less than 15 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. Other medical practices and specialist offices are also conveniently located, often within a 10-15 minute drive. However, during peak traffic hours, particularly along Harrisburg Pike and near the I-81 interchanges, these drive times can increase.

For residents seeking specialized care or facilities not available in Carlisle, the proximity to Harrisburg, approximately 25 miles away, is a significant advantage. Accessing hospitals like UPMC Harrisburg or Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center requires a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This extended travel time, while manageable, does introduce a potential barrier to healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

**Public Transportation: Limited but Present**

Public transportation in Carlisle, while present, presents limitations. The primary provider is the Capital Area Transit (CAT). CAT operates several bus routes that serve Carlisle and the surrounding areas. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends.

Route 104, for example, connects Carlisle to Harrisburg, providing a link to larger healthcare facilities. However, the journey can be lengthy, and transfers may be required, adding to the overall travel time. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on CAT buses include ramps and designated seating areas, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can make relying solely on public transportation for healthcare appointments challenging.

The lack of extensive public transportation options in Carlisle highlights a potential vulnerability for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This limitation underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing services or medical transportation providers.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Carlisle, offering an alternative transportation option for healthcare appointments. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing residents to schedule rides directly to their medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services significantly improves healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the cost of these services can be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services also play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access. Several companies specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. While these services offer a valuable solution, they can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The transportation landscape in Carlisle, PA, significantly influences healthcare access. The relatively short drive times to local healthcare providers, combined with the availability of ride-sharing services, contribute to a favorable situation. However, the limitations of public transportation and the potential cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services introduce challenges.

For those considering moving to Carlisle, it is essential to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Individuals who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should consider the accessibility of medical facilities and the availability of alternative transportation options. The overall health score of 7.5 reflects the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation system in Carlisle, providing a valuable benchmark for residents and prospective residents alike.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To further enhance healthcare access in Carlisle, several improvements could be considered. Expanding the frequency and coverage of CAT bus routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, would benefit residents who rely on public transportation. Furthermore, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for low-income individuals or those with chronic medical conditions could alleviate financial barriers.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as dedicated bus lanes or enhanced pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, could also contribute to a more efficient and accessible transportation system. Ultimately, a multifaceted approach that addresses the limitations of the current transportation landscape will ensure that all residents of Carlisle have equitable access to the healthcare they need.