17064, Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17064, Mount Gretna, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.17 percent of residents in 17064 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lebanon Va Medical Center with a distance of 5.52 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17064 (Mount Gretna, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 17064, encompassing the charming community of Mount Gretna, requires a comprehensive examination of healthcare access. This analysis delves into the multifaceted aspects of transportation, a critical determinant of health outcomes, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. The goal is to provide a clear picture for prospective residents considering moving to Mount Gretna, offering a realistic understanding of healthcare accessibility within this picturesque locale.

The primary challenge for residents of Mount Gretna lies in its relative isolation. Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Lebanon County, the community’s proximity to essential healthcare services is often dictated by the efficiency and availability of transportation. Drive times to hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical facilities are paramount in evaluating healthcare access.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities from Mount Gretna typically involves navigating the local road network. The primary arteries serving the area include Route 117, which provides a connection to the larger road systems. Route 72, a north-south thoroughfare, offers access to Lebanon and its associated medical infrastructure. Route 322, a major east-west highway, connects Mount Gretna to Harrisburg and Hershey, home to prominent medical centers.

Driving to the WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon, the closest major hospital, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This drive primarily utilizes Route 72. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned teaching hospital, is accessible via Route 322, requiring a drive time of approximately 30-45 minutes. Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill, on the other side of the Susquehanna River, can be reached via Route 322 and I-83, with a drive time of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. These drive times, while manageable, underscore the importance of reliable personal transportation for residents of Mount Gretna.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in and around Mount Gretna are limited. The primary provider of public transit in Lebanon County is the Lebanon Transit Authority (LTA). However, LTA’s routes are not directly accessible to Mount Gretna. Residents needing to utilize public transportation for healthcare appointments would need to arrange for transportation to a LTA bus stop, which would require a drive to a nearby town, further complicating the journey.

Furthermore, the LTA’s services, while offering ADA-accessible features on some buses, may not provide the flexibility and direct access required for medical appointments. The lack of readily available public transit options emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation services for healthcare access. This is a crucial consideration for individuals considering moving to Mount Gretna, especially those who may not drive or have limited mobility.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

The availability of ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offers an alternative transportation solution for residents of Mount Gretna. However, the reliability and cost-effectiveness of these services can vary. Ride-share availability may be limited in the more rural areas surrounding Mount Gretna, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized solution. These services, such as CareRide or other local medical transport providers, offer door-to-door service, often with trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. While these services provide a valuable resource, they typically come with a higher cost than public transit or ride-share options. Investigating the availability and cost of these services is a key aspect of evaluating healthcare access for residents of Mount Gretna.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 17064 is moderately impacted by transportation challenges. While drive times to major medical facilities are generally reasonable, the lack of robust public transit options and the potential limitations of ride-share services create obstacles. Residents of Mount Gretna primarily rely on personal vehicles for healthcare appointments, highlighting the importance of vehicle ownership and maintenance.

For individuals considering moving to Mount Gretna, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and capabilities is essential. Those who are unable to drive or have limited mobility should carefully evaluate the availability and cost of medical transportation services. Furthermore, prospective residents should consider the potential impact of weather conditions and traffic congestion on drive times to healthcare facilities.

The healthcare access score is also impacted by the availability of local healthcare providers. Mount Gretna itself may have limited medical services. Residents may need to travel to nearby towns for primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare services. This underscores the importance of planning for transportation needs and considering the overall healthcare infrastructure in the surrounding areas.

In conclusion, while Mount Gretna offers a tranquil and desirable living environment, the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access require careful consideration. The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 17064 is influenced by drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation services. Prospective residents should proactively assess their transportation needs and explore the available options to ensure they can readily access the healthcare services they require. This proactive approach is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being within this charming community.