17210, Amberson, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17210, Amberson, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.33 percent of residents in 17210 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 17.17 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17210

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access essential resources, particularly healthcare. In ZIP Code 17210, nestled in the heart of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the commute to healthcare facilities, considering factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.

**Driving the Narrative: Roadways and Drive Times**

For many residents of 17210, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The efficiency and convenience of driving, however, are directly influenced by the local roadways. The primary artery for accessing healthcare is, of course, **Interstate 81 (I-81)**. This major north-south thoroughfare provides relatively swift access to larger medical centers located outside of Chambersburg.

However, the dreaded traffic, particularly during peak hours, can dramatically impact drive times. A typical drive to **WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital**, a key healthcare provider, from various points within 17210, can range from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. The hospital is located off **Lincoln Way East**, a major east-west thoroughfare that intersects with **Route 30** (also known as the Lincoln Highway), adding another layer of complexity to the commute.

For those needing specialized care, the drive to larger hospitals in nearby cities like Harrisburg or Hershey, utilizing I-81, can extend to an hour or more. This extended travel time is a significant factor, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring emergency medical attention. The efficiency of these journeys is often affected by the weather and the time of day, highlighting the vulnerability of relying solely on personal vehicles.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in 17210 is primarily provided by the **Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA)**. While the FCTA offers bus routes that serve the Chambersburg area, their reach and frequency are limited. This impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

The FCTA’s routes, though serving key areas, might not always directly connect to all healthcare facilities. The schedules can also be infrequent, making it challenging to coordinate appointments and return trips. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, which are crucial for individuals with disabilities, is a critical factor in assessing the accessibility of public transit. While the FCTA strives to provide accessible services, the limitations in route coverage and frequency remain a significant barrier for many residents.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Chambersburg area, offering an alternative transportation option. Their convenience, however, is often tempered by higher costs compared to public transit and the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas of 17210.

Medical transport services, such as **MedStar** or local ambulance services, cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly vital for patients with mobility limitations or those needing specialized medical support during transit. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, representing a significant financial burden for some residents.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score"**

The "Overall Health Score" for 17210, concerning healthcare access, is a complex calculation. It considers the interplay of drive times, public transit limitations, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the proximity of healthcare facilities. The score also considers the socioeconomic factors of the population, including income levels, age demographics, and the prevalence of chronic illnesses.

The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limitations of public transit, creates a significant disparity in healthcare access. Residents without vehicles, or those who struggle with the financial burden of ride-sharing or medical transport, face considerable challenges in reaching healthcare providers. This disparity can lead to delayed care, missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

**Moving to Amberson: A Neighborhood Perspective**

The neighborhood of Amberson, within 17210, offers a unique perspective on healthcare access. Its proximity to WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is a major advantage, with relatively short drive times. However, the availability of public transit within Amberson may be limited, making the commute to healthcare more challenging for those without personal vehicles.

The "Overall Health Score" for Amberson, therefore, benefits from the proximity to the hospital but is tempered by the limitations of alternative transportation options. The neighborhood's health score is also influenced by its demographic composition, including the age of its residents and their access to resources.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

Improving the "Overall Health Score" for 17210 requires a multifaceted approach. Enhancing public transit, expanding ride-sharing options, and ensuring the affordability of medical transport are crucial steps. Investing in programs that support individuals with transportation challenges, such as subsidized rides or community-based transportation initiatives, can also make a significant difference.

Furthermore, promoting the development of healthcare facilities within the community, including primary care clinics and specialized medical services, can reduce the need for long-distance travel. Addressing the socioeconomic factors that influence health outcomes, such as income inequality and access to affordable healthcare, is also essential.

By addressing these challenges, the community of 17210 can work towards creating a more equitable and accessible healthcare system, improving the overall health and well-being of its residents. This requires a collaborative effort, involving healthcare providers, local government, community organizations, and the residents themselves. The goal is to ensure that everyone in 17210, regardless of their transportation situation, can access the healthcare they need, when they need it.