17219, Doylesburg, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17219, Doylesburg, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.30 percent of residents in 17219 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 20.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17219 (Doylesburg, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 17219, also known as Doylesburg, Pennsylvania, necessitates a comprehensive examination of healthcare access, particularly the ease and efficiency of **transportation** options to medical facilities. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities facing those seeking healthcare in this rural area. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone **moving to Doylesburg** or already residing there, as they directly impact the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

Doylesburg, nestled within Franklin County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its rural setting, while offering scenic beauty, often translates to longer travel times to access a wide array of medical services. The overall health score reflects the reality of navigating this terrain, balancing the available resources with the inherent geographical limitations.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of **transportation** for healthcare access in Doylesburg is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on their cars to reach hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. Drive times are significantly influenced by the location of the healthcare facility and the specific roadways used.

The most direct route to major medical centers, such as Chambersburg Hospital, often involves navigating a network of state routes and local roads. Traveling south on **PA-997** offers a relatively straightforward path, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can extend travel times. The journey may also involve using **US-30**, a major east-west thoroughfare, which can be prone to delays.

Further afield, accessing specialized care in Harrisburg or Hershey requires a longer commute, typically involving **I-81** or **PA-581**. These interstate highways provide faster travel, but the distance and potential for traffic incidents can significantly impact the overall travel time and reliability. The health score considers these factors, acknowledging the potential for delays and the need for residents to factor in extra time for their medical appointments.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transit options in Doylesburg are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The availability of public **transportation** directly impacts the overall health score, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The primary public transit provider in Franklin County is **CAT (Community Action Transportation)**. While CAT offers fixed-route services, their coverage in Doylesburg and the surrounding areas is sparse. Routes are infrequent, and the service area may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, the accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, are essential. The health score evaluates the availability and reliability of these features within the existing public transit infrastructure.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** option, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to public transit. However, the availability of these services in Doylesburg is variable. The health score assesses the reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing for healthcare appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, play a vital role in healthcare access. These services cater to individuals who require specialized care, such as those needing stretcher transport or assistance with mobility.

Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, including **AMR (American Medical Response)** and smaller, locally-based companies. The health score evaluates the availability, cost, and responsiveness of these services, recognizing their importance for patients with specific medical needs.

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

The overall health score for Doylesburg reflects the interplay of these **transportation** factors and their impact on healthcare access. The score considers the following:

* **Drive Times:** The average travel time to primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, coverage, and accessibility of public transit routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** The availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and responsiveness of medical **transportation** services.
* **Accessibility:** The ease with which individuals with disabilities can access healthcare facilities.

A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score reflects challenges in reaching medical care. The health score acts as a barometer, reflecting the realities of healthcare access in this rural community.

**Impact on Moving to Doylesburg:**

For individuals **moving to Doylesburg**, understanding the overall health score is paramount. It is essential to consider the **transportation** challenges and plan accordingly. This includes assessing the availability of personal vehicles, exploring public transit options, and researching ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services.

Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should pay particular attention to the health score. They should assess the feasibility of accessing necessary care and factor in the potential travel times and costs.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for Doylesburg, ZIP Code 17219, reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the area offers a tranquil lifestyle, residents face challenges related to **transportation**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services impact the ease with which residents can access medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone **moving to Doylesburg** or already residing there, as it directly influences their ability to maintain their health and well-being.