17244, Orrstown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17244, Orrstown, Pennsylvania is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.39 percent of residents in 17244 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 9.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Orrstown (ZIP Code 17244)

Orrstown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the Cumberland Valley, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. The “Overall Health Score” for residents in ZIP Code 17244 hinges significantly on transportation options, a crucial factor determining the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services. This assessment delves into the realities of navigating the region, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those contemplating moving to Orrstown.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation are Pennsylvania Route 641 and Interstate 81. Route 641, a two-lane road, serves as the main east-west thoroughfare through Orrstown, connecting the community to nearby towns and larger cities. Interstate 81, a major north-south highway, offers a faster route to more distant healthcare facilities. However, depending on the destination and time of day, traffic congestion on I-81, particularly near interchanges, can significantly impact travel times.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably. Carlisle, approximately 15 miles east via Route 641 and I-81, hosts UPMC Carlisle, a comprehensive hospital offering a wide array of medical specialties. A typical drive to UPMC Carlisle from Orrstown averages around 20-30 minutes, barring significant traffic delays. Chambersburg, located roughly 15 miles southwest via I-81, houses WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, another major healthcare provider. The drive to Chambersburg is typically comparable in duration to the Carlisle trip.

For specialized care, residents might need to travel further. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned teaching hospital, is approximately 60 miles east, requiring a drive time of about an hour and fifteen minutes, primarily via I-81 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration for those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent specialist appointments.

Public transportation options within and around Orrstown are limited. The primary provider is the Rabbittransit, which operates bus routes throughout Franklin and Adams counties. However, service frequency and coverage in Orrstown itself are sparse. The availability of routes and schedules should be verified.

Rabbittransit buses are designed to be ADA-accessible, equipped with ramps or lifts for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route network and infrequent service present challenges for those reliant on public transit for healthcare access. Planning ahead and coordinating trips with specific bus schedules are essential.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a crucial service for individuals who cannot drive or utilize other transportation options. These services often offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, the availability and cost of medical transport services should be carefully investigated, as they can vary depending on the provider and the specific needs of the patient.

Several medical transport providers serve the Orrstown area. These include, but are not limited to, local ambulance services, non-emergency medical transport companies, and specialized providers catering to specific medical needs. The specific providers available, their service areas, and associated costs can be researched online or by contacting local healthcare facilities.

The Overall Health Score for Orrstown (17244) is significantly influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. While the community benefits from proximity to major highways, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare creates challenges for those without access to a car, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. Limited public transit options and the potential for fluctuating ride-sharing availability further complicate healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Orrstown, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Individuals with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the drive times to healthcare facilities and the availability of alternative transportation options.

The availability of ride-sharing services, the frequency of public transit routes, and the accessibility of medical transport services should be thoroughly researched. Furthermore, understanding the potential for traffic delays on I-81 and Route 641 is essential for planning and managing healthcare-related travel.

The Overall Health Score for Orrstown, therefore, is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that varies depending on individual circumstances. While the community offers access to healthcare, the transportation infrastructure presents both opportunities and challenges. Prospective residents should prioritize understanding the transportation landscape to ensure their healthcare needs can be met effectively.