The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
51.67 percent of residents in 17236 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 10.35 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania
Overall Health Score | 50 |
---|---|
People Score | 43 |
Provider Score | 60 |
Hospital Score | 39 |
Travel Score | 50 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 17236 | Mercersburg | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 2.41 | 2.41 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 15.07 | 15.07 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 30.72 | 30.72 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 51.81 | 51.81 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 17236, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania
## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Mercersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17236)
Considering a move to the charming town of Mercersburg, Pennsylvania? Alongside the picturesque landscapes and close-knit community, assessing healthcare access is paramount. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 17236, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities, ultimately impacting your well-being.
The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility. This score aims to empower prospective residents with the information necessary to make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle.
**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Wellness**
Mercersburg's geographical location necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most healthcare appointments. The primary artery for accessing medical facilities is **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, a major north-south thoroughfare. Depending on the destination, residents may need to travel south towards Chambersburg or north towards Shippensburg and Carlisle.
The drive to **WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital**, a comprehensive regional hospital, typically takes around 25-35 minutes, covering approximately 20 miles. This journey involves navigating **US Route 30** and local roads, which can experience increased traffic during peak hours. This hospital offers a wide range of services, from emergency care to specialized treatments, making it a critical resource for the community.
For those seeking specialized care or access to a broader range of medical professionals, the drive to **UPMC Carlisle**, a larger hospital with advanced facilities, extends the commute. This trip, covering approximately 50 miles, typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes via I-81. Traffic conditions, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact travel times.
Smaller medical facilities, such as primary care physician offices and urgent care clinics, are available in Chambersburg and surrounding areas, offering shorter drive times. These options provide convenient access to routine checkups and immediate medical attention.
**Public Transit: Navigating the Route to Care**
Public transportation options in Mercersburg are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA)** provides some bus services within Franklin County, but their routes and schedules are often infrequent and may not directly serve Mercersburg with consistent access to healthcare facilities.
FCTA Route 101, for example, provides limited service between Chambersburg and Greencastle, potentially offering a connection point for those willing to transfer. However, the frequency of these routes and the time required for transfers can make public transit a less practical option for many healthcare appointments.
ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities. FCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Mercersburg area, offering an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles. However, availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.
Specialized medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who need stretcher transport.
Companies like **Medical Transportation Services (MTS)** and **Care Ride** provide non-emergency medical transport in the area. These services usually require pre-booking and can be subject to availability. The cost of medical transport can vary depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific service provider.
**Overall Health Score and Considerations**
Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in Mercersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17236) is **moderate**. While the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some flexibility, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present significant challenges.
The drive times to major hospitals, particularly UPMC Carlisle, can be lengthy, potentially impacting access to timely medical care. The limited public transit options further restrict healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.
**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**
Prospective residents considering a move to Mercersburg should carefully assess their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should factor in the drive times and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services.
Researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is crucial. Establishing a relationship with a local primary care physician in Chambersburg or a nearby town can improve healthcare access.
Exploring options for carpooling or forming a support network with neighbors can also alleviate transportation challenges. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the need for personal vehicles is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access in Mercersburg.
**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**
Moving to Mercersburg offers a unique lifestyle, but understanding the dynamics of healthcare access is vital. While the town's location presents some transportation challenges, the availability of various options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides a pathway to healthcare.
By carefully considering the factors outlined in this analysis, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being, ensuring they have access to the medical care they need. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a guide, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the transportation landscape to healthcare in Mercersburg. This proactive approach ensures that the benefits of moving to this charming community are not overshadowed by healthcare access limitations.
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