17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.84 percent of residents in 17246 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 8.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17246 (Pleasant Hall, PA)

The pursuit of optimal health is a journey, and the ease with which residents can access healthcare is a crucial determinant of its success. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 17246, Pleasant Hall, Pennsylvania, evaluating its impact on healthcare access and providing an "Overall Health Score" based on commute times, public transit options, and available transportation services. This score aims to assist individuals considering moving to Pleasant Hall, offering a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the healthcare system within this community.

Pleasant Hall, nestled in Franklin County, presents a unique blend of rural charm and proximity to larger urban centers. The primary challenge for residents lies in the geographical distribution of healthcare facilities. While the community itself may offer limited options, residents often rely on services located in nearby towns like Chambersburg and Shippensburg, requiring transportation to reach essential medical care. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect the efficiency and accessibility of these transportation options.

The cornerstone of transportation in Pleasant Hall is the reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries connecting Pleasant Hall to healthcare providers are **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, **U.S. Route 11**, and a network of local roads, including **New Franklin Road** and **Pleasant Hall Road**. The drive times to hospitals, clinics, and specialists are significantly influenced by traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. A typical drive to Chambersburg Hospital, the closest major hospital, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic on I-81.

The journey to healthcare is not always straightforward. While I-81 provides a relatively direct route, accidents or congestion can significantly extend travel times. The smaller roads offer alternative routes, but they are often slower and may not be suitable for emergencies. The "Overall Health Score" must consider these potential delays and their impact on the timeliness of healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Pleasant Hall are limited. The primary provider is the **Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA)**. However, the FCTA's routes in this area are infrequent and primarily serve the Chambersburg area. Ridership is low, and the routes may not directly connect Pleasant Hall to all healthcare facilities. The FCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring transportation for individuals with disabilities. But the limited service area and schedule constraints present significant barriers to healthcare access for many residents.

The lack of robust public transit necessitates a reliance on other transportation alternatives. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing a more flexible option than the FCTA. However, their availability and cost can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in response to urgent medical needs. Medical transportation services, such as **Medicaid-approved providers** and private ambulance services, are also available. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical transport.

The "Overall Health Score" must weigh the accessibility of these various transportation options, considering their cost, reliability, and convenience. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers partially mitigates the limitations of public transit. However, the reliance on personal vehicles remains a significant factor, making healthcare access dependent on individual vehicle ownership and driving ability.

The challenges of healthcare access are amplified for individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations. The infrequent public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing services can create significant barriers to care. This is especially critical for appointments, follow-ups, and emergency situations.

The "Overall Health Score" will also consider the proximity of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services. While Pleasant Hall may have limited options, the availability of pharmacies in nearby towns is a crucial factor in overall healthcare access. The ability to quickly and easily obtain medications is essential for managing chronic conditions and maintaining overall health.

The "Overall Health Score" for ZIP code 17246 reflects a mixed picture. The availability of personal vehicles and the proximity to healthcare facilities in Chambersburg and Shippensburg offer a degree of convenience. However, the limited public transit options and the potential for traffic delays on I-81 present challenges. The reliance on ride-sharing services and medical transport providers adds to the overall cost of healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Pleasant Hall, PA, is therefore rated as **Moderate**. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential barriers. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offers alternative solutions, but their cost and availability may vary.

For individuals considering moving to Pleasant Hall, this "Overall Health Score" should be considered alongside other factors, such as individual health needs, financial resources, and transportation preferences. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring a high quality of life in this community. The ability to navigate the transportation system effectively is a key determinant of overall health and well-being. The challenges and opportunities presented by the transportation infrastructure must be carefully considered when assessing the suitability of Pleasant Hall for individual healthcare needs.