17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17104, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.87 percent of residents in 17104 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Pinnacle Hospitals with a distance of 1.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17104

ZIP Code 17104, encompassing a significant portion of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, presents a complex tapestry of healthcare access woven with threads of transportation challenges. This write-up aims to provide an “Overall Health Score,” a comprehensive assessment of the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, considering factors like drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions. This score will be invaluable for individuals and families considering moving to Harrisburg, as healthcare access is a critical determinant of overall well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access in 17104 rests heavily on vehicular transportation. The central location of the zip code benefits from its proximity to major roadways, including Interstate 83 (I-83), a north-south artery, and U.S. Route 322 (US-322), which provides east-west connectivity. Pennsylvania Route 581 (PA-581) adds further accessibility, especially for residents in the western parts of the zip code. However, the reliance on these highways introduces vulnerabilities. Peak traffic hours, especially during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times, impacting the ability to reach urgent care or scheduled appointments promptly. Accidents or road closures on I-83, a frequent occurrence, can create significant delays, particularly for those needing to reach hospitals located further north or south.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within and around 17104 vary considerably. Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, located just outside the zip code in Camp Hill, is generally accessible within a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. UPMC Harrisburg, a major hospital, is located within the zip code and offers easy access for many residents. However, reaching specialty clinics or facilities located further afield, such as those in Hershey or Lancaster, can necessitate drive times exceeding 30 minutes, and sometimes longer. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or those requiring frequent medical attention.

Public transportation, provided by the Capital Area Transit (CAT), offers an alternative to driving, though its impact on healthcare access is somewhat limited. Several CAT bus routes serve the 17104 area, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, providing connections to various parts of Harrisburg and surrounding areas. The CAT system is ADA-compliant, with accessible buses and designated stops. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be infrequent, potentially creating extended wait times and making it difficult to adhere to appointment schedules. Moreover, the coverage of the CAT system is not comprehensive, and residents in certain areas of 17104 may face significant walking distances to the nearest bus stop.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a flexible transportation option, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, eliminating the need to rely on public transit schedules or the availability of friends or family. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, especially for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can be variable, with longer wait times during peak hours or in less densely populated areas.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a crucial service for individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Access Transportation offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, often covered by Medicaid or other insurance plans. These services provide door-to-door transportation, ensuring patients can reach their appointments safely and comfortably. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and scheduling appointments often requires advance notice.

The “Overall Health Score” for healthcare access in 17104 is, therefore, nuanced. While the presence of major highways and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer viable options, the reliance on vehicular transportation, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of alternative transportation options create challenges. The score is moderately impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, which can significantly extend travel times.

For those moving to Harrisburg, the proximity to healthcare facilities is a definite advantage. UPMC Harrisburg, located within the zip code, is a major asset. However, prospective residents should carefully consider their individual transportation needs and the potential impact of traffic congestion and public transit limitations. Assessing the availability and cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services is also crucial, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or chronic conditions.

The ongoing development of infrastructure, including potential improvements to the CAT system and the expansion of transportation options, could significantly improve the “Overall Health Score” for 17104 residents. Investing in improved public transit, promoting the availability of affordable ride-sharing services, and increasing the awareness of medical transportation options would be beneficial.

In conclusion, while 17104 offers reasonable access to healthcare, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. The "Overall Health Score" reflects a need for careful consideration of individual transportation needs, a proactive approach to navigating traffic and public transit limitations, and a willingness to explore alternative transportation solutions. By understanding these complexities, residents can effectively navigate the transportation landscape and ensure they can access the healthcare they need.