17041, Lawn, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17041, Lawn, Pennsylvania is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.90 percent of residents in 17041 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milton S Hershey Medical Center with a distance of 7.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Lawn, PA (ZIP Code 17041)

Lawn, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Lebanon County, offers a charming rural atmosphere. However, its idyllic setting presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the various transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 17041 seeking medical care. We will analyze drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this community.

The "Overall Health Score" for Lawn, PA, concerning healthcare access is best characterized as **moderately challenging**. While the area benefits from proximity to larger towns and cities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation create potential hurdles for residents, especially those with mobility issues or without access to a car. The score reflects a balance between available options and the inherent difficulties associated with rural healthcare access.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Lawn is the personal vehicle. Driving is the most direct and flexible option. The main thoroughfare for reaching healthcare facilities is Route 72, a crucial artery connecting Lawn to Lebanon and other surrounding towns. Drive times to various medical facilities vary depending on the destination and time of day.

For example, a trip to the WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 15-20 minutes via Route 72, assuming normal traffic conditions. This drive time is generally manageable for most residents. Further afield, accessing medical centers in Hershey, such as Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, requires a longer commute. The journey involves navigating Route 72 North to Route 322 East, and can take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Residents should factor in potential delays, especially when scheduling appointments. Rural roads, while scenic, can also be susceptible to weather-related closures or hazards, further complicating travel.

Public transportation options in the area are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The Lebanon Transit Authority (LTA) provides bus service within Lebanon County. However, the routes and frequency of service in Lawn and the surrounding areas are not extensive.

The primary LTA route serving Lawn is Route 1, which runs along Route 72. However, the frequency of this route is limited, with buses typically running hourly or less frequently. This infrequent service can make it difficult to coordinate appointments and return trips. The LTA does make an effort to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by providing accessible buses equipped with ramps and lifts. However, the limited coverage and frequency still pose a challenge for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lebanon County area. However, their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Lawn. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing offers a potential alternative to driving or public transit, it is not always a dependable solution.

Medical transport services are available for individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible transportation or stretcher services. Several providers operate in the region, including ambulance services and specialized medical transport companies. These services are typically reserved for patients with medical conditions that necessitate specialized transport. The cost of these services can be significant, and they may require prior authorization or referrals.

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance is a positive factor. The WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon offers a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, specialty clinics, and inpatient care. Numerous primary care physicians, specialists, and dental practices are also located in Lebanon and the surrounding areas.

The Hershey Medical Center, while further away, provides access to advanced medical treatments and specialized care. The presence of these facilities enhances healthcare access for Lawn residents, although the travel time involved must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Lawn, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for assessing their healthcare access. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges. Prospective residents should also research the proximity of healthcare providers and the availability of ride-sharing services.

The "Overall Health Score" reflects the interplay of various factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for traffic delays all contribute to the challenges of healthcare access in Lawn. However, the proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of ride-sharing services provide some mitigation.

The community could benefit from improvements to public transportation, such as increased route frequency and expanded coverage. Partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services could also enhance healthcare access for residents. Initiatives to promote carpooling or ride-sharing within the community could also prove beneficial.

Ultimately, residents of Lawn must carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances when evaluating their healthcare access. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a starting point for understanding the complexities of transportation and healthcare in this rural community. The journey to healthcare requires careful planning and consideration of the available options.