Overall Health Score

17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 17030 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 4.32 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania

Overall Health Score 55
People Score 53
Provider Score 37
Hospital Score 58
Travel Score 51

Closest Hospital - PENN STATE HEALTH HAMPDEN MEDICAL CENTER

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 17030 Gratz Pennsylvania
No Cars 37.20 37.20 5.04
1 Car 3.86 3.86 21.45
2 Cars 26.09 26.09 41.29
3 or More Cars 32.85 32.85 32.22

Vehicular Access in 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania

Travel Score Review of 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17030 (Gratz, PA)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access vital resources, particularly healthcare. For residents of Gratz, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17030), this access is significantly shaped by the efficiency and availability of transportation. This write-up provides an “Overall Health Score” assessment, considering the various transportation options available to residents seeking medical care, from the convenience of personal vehicles to the complexities of public transit.

The foundation of healthcare access in Gratz rests upon the personal vehicle. The ability to drive oneself, or be driven by a family member or friend, offers the most direct route to medical facilities. However, this convenience is contingent upon several factors. The geographic isolation of Gratz, nestled in a rural setting, dictates that residents must travel to larger towns and cities for comprehensive healthcare. The primary roadways influencing this commute are **Route 209**, a north-south artery, and **Route 147**, which runs along the Susquehanna River.

Travel times to hospitals and specialized medical centers are crucial. The nearest hospital, UPMC Community Osteopathic Hospital in Harrisburg, is approximately a 45-minute drive via Route 209 and then Interstate 81. This journey can be longer during peak traffic hours. Other options, such as Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital in Camp Hill, are also accessible, but require similar travel times. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact these commute times, adding to the stress and potential delays for individuals seeking medical attention.

Public transportation presents a less-utilized, but still important, option. The **Capital Area Transit (CAT)** system, while primarily serving the Harrisburg metropolitan area, does offer limited service to some surrounding areas. However, direct routes to Gratz are not available. Residents relying on public transit would need to utilize a combination of bus routes and potentially require multiple transfers. This complexity makes public transit a less viable option for many, especially those with mobility limitations or requiring urgent care.

The availability of accessible public transportation is a critical consideration. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transit systems provide accessible services, including wheelchair-accessible buses and paratransit options. However, the limited service area and the potential need for multiple transfers in the Gratz area may still pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in many areas. However, their availability in Gratz and the surrounding rural areas is limited. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly for longer distances to medical facilities. Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these options can be invaluable, they can also be expensive and may require advance booking.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Gratz, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles provides a degree of flexibility, but the travel times and potential for traffic congestion pose challenges. The limitations of public transportation, coupled with the limited availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services, create further barriers.

The health of a community is not just about the availability of medical facilities; it's also about the ease with which individuals can access them. For residents of Gratz, this access is heavily dependent on their ability to navigate the roadways and the availability of alternative transportation options. The challenges presented by distance, traffic, and the limitations of public transit contribute to a lower "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access compared to more urban areas with robust public transportation networks.

For someone **moving to Gratz**, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. It's essential to consider the distance to medical facilities, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of alternative transportation options. Planning for potential healthcare needs and understanding the time commitment required to access care are essential aspects of making an informed decision about relocating to the area.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Gratz could be improved through several measures. Expanding public transportation services, particularly with routes that connect Gratz to major medical centers, would be a significant step. Promoting ride-sharing services and ensuring their availability in the area would also enhance access. Furthermore, providing financial assistance for medical transportation, particularly for low-income residents, would help address the cost barriers.

The ongoing development of healthcare infrastructure in the region, including the potential for telemedicine services, could also play a role in improving healthcare access. Telemedicine, which allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can reduce the need for travel and improve access to specialized care.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Gratz, PA (ZIP Code 17030) is moderate, reflecting the challenges posed by its rural location and the limitations of transportation options. While personal vehicles offer a degree of convenience, the reliance on them, coupled with the limited availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, creates barriers to healthcare access. Understanding these challenges is crucial for residents and those considering **moving to Gratz**, as it informs their ability to plan for their healthcare needs and navigate the complexities of accessing medical care in a rural setting. Improving the "Overall Health Score" requires a multi-faceted approach, including expanding public transportation, promoting ride-sharing services, and exploring innovative solutions like telemedicine to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.

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Health Scores Near 17030, Gratz, Pennsylvania

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