17120, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17120, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17120 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Pinnacle Hospitals with a distance of 0.78 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17120

Determining an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Harrisburg's 17120 ZIP code requires a comprehensive understanding of transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a detailed picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking healthcare. For those considering moving to Harrisburg, this information provides a crucial perspective on navigating the city's healthcare landscape.

The 17120 ZIP code, encompassing portions of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, presents a mixed bag when it comes to healthcare access. While the area benefits from its proximity to the state capital and its associated infrastructure, the reality of accessing medical care hinges significantly on transportation. The ability to get to appointments, whether routine check-ups or emergency situations, directly influences the overall health and well-being of the community.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation for many residents is, unsurprisingly, personal vehicles. The efficiency of this method, however, is heavily dependent on traffic conditions and the location of healthcare providers. Key arteries like Interstate 83 (I-83) and the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) serve as major thoroughfares, facilitating travel to hospitals and clinics located both within and outside the ZIP code.

Driving times can fluctuate dramatically. During peak hours, congestion on I-83, particularly near the city center, can significantly extend travel times. Residents relying on this route for appointments at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located just outside the ZIP code, might experience delays. Similarly, travel to Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, accessible via the West Shore Expressway (US-322) and I-83, could be impacted by rush-hour traffic.

Navigating local roads, such as Paxton Street and 29th Street, can also present challenges. These streets, while offering alternative routes, often experience congestion, especially near commercial areas. Therefore, the overall drive-time experience is a variable, influenced by the time of day, the destination, and the driver's familiarity with the area.

**Public Transit's Role:**

Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides public transportation within Harrisburg and the surrounding areas, offering an alternative to driving. Several CAT bus routes serve the 17120 ZIP code, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. Route 1, for example, offers service along major corridors, potentially providing access to medical offices. Route 2 provides service to the downtown area, where many medical specialists are located.

However, the effectiveness of public transit hinges on several factors. The frequency of bus service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Residents with appointments scheduled outside of regular service hours may face difficulties. Furthermore, the travel time on public transit is generally longer than driving, requiring careful planning and potentially adding to the stress of attending medical appointments.

CAT strives to enhance accessibility through ADA-compliant features on its buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. This commitment is crucial for ensuring that healthcare access is equitable for all residents. However, the availability of accessible routes and the overall convenience of public transit remain critical considerations in evaluating the overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a flexible transportation option, especially for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. These services can be particularly valuable for accessing healthcare facilities, providing on-demand transportation to and from appointments. The availability and cost of these services, however, can vary depending on demand and the time of day.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by transportation companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, making them a valuable resource for patients with limited mobility or those requiring special accommodations. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare are available.

The availability and cost of medical transport services can vary, and eligibility may be based on medical necessity and insurance coverage. The presence of these specialized services contributes positively to the overall health score, offering a crucial lifeline for vulnerable populations.

**Assessing the Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 17120 is a complex calculation. While the presence of major highways like I-83 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike facilitates access to healthcare facilities, the variability of drive times, particularly during peak hours, presents a challenge. The availability of public transit, while offering an alternative, is limited by service frequency and travel time. Ride-sharing services and medical transport provide additional options, but their accessibility and cost must be considered.

For those considering moving to Harrisburg, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. The proximity of healthcare facilities to the 17120 ZIP code is not the sole determinant of healthcare access. The ease and reliability of transportation are equally important.

The overall score is a reflection of the interplay between these factors. The 17120 ZIP code benefits from the infrastructure of a state capital, but its health score is tempered by the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Residents must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of transportation to ensure they can effectively access the healthcare services they need. The score should be considered a dynamic measure, influenced by ongoing efforts to improve public transit, expand ride-sharing options, and enhance the availability of medical transport services.