17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.12 percent of residents in 17023 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 21.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Elizabethville (ZIP Code 17023)

Elizabethville, Pennsylvania, a charming borough nestled in the heart of Dauphin County, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health. This assessment focuses on the critical component of healthcare access, specifically analyzing the transportation options available to residents for reaching medical facilities. This 'Overall Health Score' considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Elizabethville or evaluating its healthcare accessibility.

The very fabric of health in Elizabethville is woven with the threads of transportation. The ability to reach medical professionals, specialists, and emergency services is paramount to individual well-being. This evaluation, therefore, delves into the practical realities of getting to healthcare appointments, a crucial factor in the overall health score for this community.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and out of Elizabethville are Pennsylvania Route 225 (Market Street), which runs directly through the borough, and Route 209, a major north-south thoroughfare. These roads connect Elizabethville to surrounding towns and cities, including Harrisburg, the state capital, offering access to a wider array of healthcare providers.

Driving to the nearest hospitals requires navigating these roads. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located approximately 30 miles south, typically entails a 45-60 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. This route primarily utilizes Route 225 to Route 325, then connecting to Interstate 81 South. Hershey Medical Center, another significant healthcare provider, is about 35 miles away, with a similar drive time, usually taking the same route via Route 225, Route 325, and Interstate 81 South.

Local medical practices, such as family physicians and specialists, are often found within a 15-20 minute drive radius, mainly accessible via Route 225 and local roads. However, the availability of specialized care within this close proximity may be limited, necessitating longer travel times for specific medical needs. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter weather, can significantly impact drive times and healthcare access, a critical consideration for residents.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Elizabethville are limited, impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider of public transit in the region is Capital Area Transit (CAT), though their services are not directly available within Elizabethville. Residents would need to travel to nearby towns, such as Millersburg or Lykens, to access CAT bus routes.

This involves either driving to a bus stop or relying on other transportation methods, like ride-sharing or a friend or family member, to reach the CAT routes. The nearest CAT routes, if accessible, may offer connections to Harrisburg, providing access to a wider range of medical facilities. However, the travel time using public transit can be significantly longer than driving, potentially exceeding two hours to reach Harrisburg hospitals, depending on transfer times and route frequency.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor in evaluating public transit. CAT offers ADA-compliant buses with features like wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited availability of public transit in Elizabethville presents a challenge for those who rely on these services for healthcare access. The lack of direct routes and the need for transfers can create significant barriers, especially for those with mobility limitations or chronic health conditions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Elizabethville area, offering an alternative transportation method for healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments, potentially impacting the affordability of healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in the region. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care during transport. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve additional costs, potentially impacting the overall healthcare access score.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Elizabethville is influenced by several factors. The relatively long drive times to major hospitals, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services all contribute to a complex picture. While residents with personal vehicles have greater flexibility in accessing healthcare, those without face significant challenges.

The availability of local medical practices and the potential for shorter travel times for routine appointments positively impact the score. However, the limited access to specialized care within the immediate vicinity necessitates longer journeys. The cost of transportation, whether it’s fuel, ride-sharing fares, or medical transport fees, adds another layer of complexity to the overall health assessment.

The community's demographics also play a role. The elderly population, those with disabilities, and individuals with limited financial resources may face greater barriers to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit, subsidized ride-sharing programs, or expanded local healthcare services could significantly improve the 'Overall Health Score' for Elizabethville.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Elizabethville, ZIP Code 17023, reflects a mixed picture. While residents with personal vehicles have reasonable access to healthcare, those reliant on public transit or other transportation methods face significant challenges. The limited public transit options, the potential for long drive times to specialized care, and the cost of alternative transportation methods all contribute to the complexity of the healthcare landscape.

For individuals considering moving to Elizabethville, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. While the borough offers a charming, close-knit community, the ability to access timely and affordable healthcare is a critical factor in overall well-being. Addressing the transportation challenges, expanding local healthcare services, and supporting initiatives to improve healthcare access would significantly enhance the 'Overall Health Score' and improve the quality of life for all Elizabethville residents. The success of any community is measured by the health and wellbeing of its residents, and in Elizabethville, this is inextricably linked to the ease with which they can access the healthcare they need.