17237, Mont Alto, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17237, Mont Alto, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.21 percent of residents in 17237 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Waynesboro Hospital with a distance of 6.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17237 (Mont Alto, PA)

The quaint borough of Mont Alto, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Franklin County (ZIP Code 17237), presents a unique landscape when evaluating its residents’ overall health. While the area boasts natural beauty and a close-knit community, assessing healthcare access necessitates a deep dive into transportation infrastructure, a critical determinant of well-being. This analysis provides an 'Overall Health Score' based on the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services. For those considering moving to Mont Alto, understanding these dynamics is paramount.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the availability of transportation. Mont Alto, while charming, is not a bustling metropolis. Consequently, personal vehicles remain the dominant mode of transportation. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 997 and Pennsylvania Route 233. Traveling north on Route 997, residents can reach Chambersburg, the county seat, and the location of Chambersburg Hospital, a major healthcare provider. The drive typically spans 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. Southbound on Route 997, the journey leads towards Waynesboro, offering access to Waynesboro Hospital, another crucial healthcare hub. This trip usually takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Route 233 provides an alternative route, connecting Mont Alto to surrounding areas, but its winding nature can extend travel times.

Beyond these primary routes, the accessibility of healthcare hinges on the condition of secondary roads. These roads, often narrower and less maintained, can significantly impact travel times, especially during inclement weather. Snow and ice, common occurrences during Pennsylvania winters, can render these roads treacherous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to medical appointments. The overall condition of these roads, therefore, directly impacts the health and safety of Mont Alto residents.

Public transportation options are limited in Mont Alto. The primary provider of public transit in Franklin County is the Rabbittransit. Unfortunately, Rabbittransit's services in Mont Alto are minimal, primarily focusing on demand-response transportation. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, often with limited availability. While Rabbittransit strives to provide ADA-accessible vehicles, the reliance on pre-booked rides can be a significant barrier to spontaneous healthcare needs. The lack of readily available public transit presents a considerable challenge for those without personal vehicles, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another potential transportation solution. However, their availability in Mont Alto is inconsistent. The frequency of service depends on driver availability, which can fluctuate significantly. While these services can provide a convenient option for those with smartphones and access to credit cards, they are not a reliable substitute for a robust public transportation system, especially for emergency situations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transit. However, these services typically require prior arrangements and can be expensive, particularly for routine appointments. The availability of these services is a crucial component of healthcare access, especially for those with chronic conditions or those recovering from surgery.

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Mont Alto (ZIP Code 17237) is therefore nuanced. While the proximity to Chambersburg and Waynesboro hospitals offers a degree of healthcare access, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides additional options, but their reliability and cost can be limiting factors.

The overall health score is further influenced by the demographic composition of Mont Alto. The presence of a significant elderly population, who may have mobility limitations or rely on fixed incomes, underscores the importance of readily available and affordable transportation. The availability of healthcare services, including primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency care, is crucial to the well-being of these residents.

The potential for moving to Mont Alto brings with it the necessity of evaluating these transportation and healthcare factors. Prospective residents, particularly those without personal vehicles or with specific healthcare needs, should carefully consider the challenges associated with accessing medical services. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a critical element of maintaining good health and quality of life.

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Mont Alto, therefore, is moderate. While the proximity to healthcare facilities offers a degree of accessibility, the limitations in public transportation, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation services create barriers for some residents. Improving public transportation options, increasing the frequency and reliability of ride-sharing services, and providing affordable medical transportation are essential steps toward enhancing the overall health and well-being of the Mont Alto community. The future of healthcare access in Mont Alto hinges on the ability to address these transportation challenges, ensuring that all residents can readily and affordably access the medical care they need.