17033, Hershey, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17033, Hershey, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.65 percent of residents in 17033 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milton S Hershey Medical Center with a distance of 1.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17033)

Embarking on a journey to assess the overall health score for healthcare access in Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17033) necessitates a deep dive into the transportation landscape. This analysis will encompass drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Hershey. The goal is to determine how easily residents can reach essential healthcare services, a critical component of overall well-being.

Hershey, renowned for its chocolate and family-friendly atmosphere, also boasts a robust healthcare infrastructure. However, the accessibility of these services is heavily influenced by the transportation options available. The ease with which individuals can navigate to appointments, access emergency care, and receive ongoing treatment significantly impacts their health outcomes. This assessment will explore the nuances of commuting to healthcare within and around the 17033 ZIP code, offering a detailed perspective on the challenges and opportunities.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in Hershey are US Route 322, PA Route 39, and PA Route 743. These roadways provide direct access to major healthcare facilities. Driving times, of course, are subject to traffic conditions. Generally, a trip to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, from most points within the 17033 ZIP code can be accomplished within 10-15 minutes, barring unforeseen delays.

However, during peak hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, traffic congestion on US Route 322 can extend travel times. PA Route 39, while less congested, offers a more circuitous route to some healthcare destinations. PA Route 743 provides a more localized route, primarily serving the immediate Hershey area. Residents should factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments, especially during rush hour.

For those residing further from the central healthcare facilities, such as those in the outskirts of Hershey or surrounding communities, the drive times may increase. This underscores the importance of considering location when evaluating healthcare accessibility. The ease of driving is a significant factor in the overall health score, particularly for those with mobility limitations or who rely on personal vehicles.

**Public Transit Options:**

The availability of public transportation plays a crucial role in healthcare access, especially for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive. Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service to and through Hershey. While the public transit network may not be as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas, it offers a viable alternative for some residents.

Several CAT bus routes serve the Hershey area, including routes 1, 2, and 3. These routes connect Hershey with Harrisburg and other surrounding communities, providing access to a wider range of healthcare facilities. It's crucial to note that the frequency of service may vary depending on the route and time of day.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. CAT buses are equipped with features like ramps and lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This ensures that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize public transit to access healthcare services. However, the travel time on public transit may be longer than driving, and transfers between routes could be necessary.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option for residents of Hershey. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing individuals to request a ride to and from healthcare appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services can be particularly beneficial for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle or who prefer not to drive.

However, the cost of ride-sharing services can be a factor, especially for frequent trips. Additionally, the availability of drivers may fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. This is important to consider when relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to patients with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the Hershey area, offering a range of services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transportation.

The cost of medical transport services can vary depending on the provider and the level of assistance required. However, these services can be invaluable for individuals who cannot utilize other transportation options. The availability of medical transport services significantly enhances the overall health score for those with specific needs.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Hershey:**

When considering moving to Hershey, the accessibility of healthcare should be a paramount concern. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the ease of navigating the transportation network are all crucial factors. Hershey's location, with its proximity to major healthcare providers, generally provides a favorable environment for healthcare access.

However, individuals should carefully assess their specific transportation needs and consider the potential challenges. For those who rely on public transit, the route frequency and travel times should be evaluated. For those who require specialized assistance, the availability of medical transport services is essential.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Hershey is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the area boasts a strong healthcare infrastructure, the transportation options play a crucial role in determining how easily residents can access these services. The ability to navigate the roadways, utilize public transit, and leverage ride-sharing or medical transport services directly impacts the health and well-being of the community.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Hershey (ZIP Code 17033) is relatively high. The presence of major healthcare facilities, the availability of driving routes, and the presence of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options create a generally accessible environment. However, individuals should carefully consider their specific transportation needs and potential challenges when evaluating healthcare access. The ease of transportation significantly impacts the overall health score, making it a critical consideration for residents and those considering moving to Hershey.