The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
57.17 percent of residents in 17228 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 5.86 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania
Overall Health Score | 63 |
---|---|
People Score | 71 |
Provider Score | 18 |
Hospital Score | 61 |
Travel Score | 61 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 17228 | Harrisonville | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.59 | 0.59 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 8.09 | 8.09 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 43.59 | 43.59 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 47.73 | 47.73 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania
## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Harrisonville, PA (ZIP Code 17228)
Harrisonville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Fulton County, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, heavily influenced by the accessibility of healthcare services. A critical aspect of this evaluation lies in understanding the transportation infrastructure available to residents seeking medical attention. This write-up will delve into the complexities of commuting to healthcare within and from ZIP code 17228, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical care.
The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those living in or considering moving to Harrisonville. This analysis aims to inform residents and potential newcomers about the practical realities of receiving timely and appropriate medical care, a vital component of overall well-being.
**Drive Time Dynamics:**
The primary mode of transportation in Harrisonville and the surrounding areas is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The roads, though scenic, can present challenges. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are Route 30 and Route 75. Route 30, the Lincoln Highway, offers a more direct route to Chambersburg, PA, where the nearest major hospital, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, is located. This journey, under optimal traffic conditions, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
Route 75, connecting Harrisonville to various towns and cities, provides another access point, although it is often slower due to its winding nature and smaller size. Traveling to nearby towns like McConnellsburg, PA, which has some medical offices, takes about 15-20 minutes via Route 75. The drive time to other smaller towns with healthcare options is relatively short, but the limited scope of services in these locations necessitates longer trips for specialized care.
The overall drive-time factor significantly impacts the health score. Long commutes can deter individuals from seeking preventative care or prompt treatment, potentially leading to more serious health complications. The lack of readily available healthcare facilities within Harrisonville necessitates reliance on external locations, adding to the burden of healthcare access.
**Public Transit Challenges:**
Public transportation options in Fulton County are extremely limited. There are no established bus routes that directly serve Harrisonville or provide regular connections to larger towns with hospitals or specialist offices. The absence of a robust public transit system severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes.
ADA accessibility is a critical concern when evaluating public transit. The lack of accessible routes and infrastructure further disadvantages individuals with mobility limitations. This lack of public transportation significantly lowers the overall health score, as it creates a barrier to healthcare access for a substantial portion of the population.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals with limited financial resources.
Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport providers, are available, but they are typically reserved for urgent or medically necessary situations. These services are not a practical solution for routine appointments or preventative care. The reliance on these services for non-emergency situations can be costly and time-consuming, further impacting the overall health score.
**Medical Transport Brands:**
Several medical transport brands operate in the region, providing services for those who require assistance getting to medical appointments. These include local ambulance services and private medical transport companies. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and they are not always readily accessible for routine healthcare needs.
**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**
Based on the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for commute to healthcare in ZIP code 17228 is **moderate to low**. The primary challenges are the long drive times to major healthcare facilities, the absence of a reliable public transit system, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services.
Individuals considering moving to Harrisonville should carefully consider the implications of these transportation limitations. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. Proximity to healthcare facilities is a crucial factor when assessing overall health.
The lack of readily available healthcare options within Harrisonville necessitates a reliance on external locations, adding to the burden of healthcare access. The limited healthcare access can negatively impact the overall health and well-being of residents. The healthcare access is a significant factor influencing the overall health score.
**Recommendations for Improvement:**
To improve the "Overall Health Score," several initiatives are needed. These include:
* Advocating for the expansion of public transit options, including routes that connect Harrisonville to healthcare facilities in Chambersburg and other nearby towns.
* Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to increase availability and affordability in the area.
* Supporting initiatives to bring more healthcare providers and services to Harrisonville, reducing the need for long commutes.
* Investing in infrastructure improvements to enhance road safety and reduce travel times.
By addressing these challenges, the community can improve healthcare access and create a healthier environment for all residents of Harrisonville, Pennsylvania. The success of these efforts will directly impact the overall health and well-being of the community.
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