17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17266, Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.52 percent of residents in 17266 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 12.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17266 (Walnut Bottom, PA)

The quaint community of Walnut Bottom, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP Code 17266, offers a tranquil setting. However, assessing its overall health requires a comprehensive understanding of its residents’ access to healthcare. This analysis considers the critical element of **transportation**, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach essential medical services. The goal is to provide a clear “Overall Health Score” reflecting the accessibility of care, a crucial factor for anyone **moving to Walnut Bottom** or already residing there.

The primary determinant of healthcare access is travel time. For residents of 17266, the closest major medical facilities are primarily located in Chambersburg, a short drive away. The most direct route typically involves navigating **Interstate 81** (I-81) north or south, depending on the specific destination. This highway provides relatively swift access, generally minimizing travel time. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact this.

Another option involves utilizing **U.S. Route 11** (US-11), a parallel road that offers a more scenic, albeit slower, alternative. This route traverses through various towns and villages, encountering traffic lights and potential delays. Residents may also employ local roads such as **Walnut Bottom Road** and **New Franklin Road** to connect to these primary arteries. The condition of these local roads, including potholes and maintenance, can also affect travel times and vehicle safety.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit presents a vital alternative. Unfortunately, the public transportation options in this area are limited. The **Franklin County Transit Authority (FCTA)** offers bus services, but the routes and frequency are not extensive, particularly for areas outside of Chambersburg. Specific route numbers serving Walnut Bottom are not readily available, and the schedules are often infrequent.

Furthermore, the availability of **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)** compliant features on these buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Information regarding wheelchair lifts, accessible seating, and audio-visual announcements should be readily accessible to ensure ease of use. However, the limited scope of public transit in this region presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another potential solution. Their availability in the 17266 area can vary depending on demand and driver availability. While these services can provide convenient door-to-door transportation, the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather or late-night hours, also warrants consideration.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized approach. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including those specializing in wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria. The availability of these services and their coverage within the 17266 area is a critical aspect of healthcare accessibility.

The availability of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity of Walnut Bottom is another factor. While Chambersburg offers a wider range of specialists and hospitals, access to primary care physicians, dentists, and pharmacies within the community itself is essential. The proximity of these facilities minimizes travel time and promotes convenience for routine medical needs.

The overall health score for 17266 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Chambersburg provides access to comprehensive medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles or limited public **transportation** options presents challenges. The lack of readily available public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing services can create barriers for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those without personal vehicles.

The score must also account for the potential impact of traffic congestion on I-81, particularly during peak hours. Delays can significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting appointment adherence and overall health outcomes. The condition of local roads and their impact on vehicle safety should also be considered.

The availability of medical transport services and their accessibility for residents of 17266 is a positive factor, but their cost and eligibility requirements can limit their use. The presence of local healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians and pharmacies, within the community is a crucial element in improving the overall health score.

Considering all these factors, the “Overall Health Score” for **healthcare access** in 17266 is moderate. The community benefits from its proximity to Chambersburg and its medical facilities. However, the limited public **transportation** options and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services create challenges for some residents.

To improve the score, investment in public **transportation** is critical. Expanding the FCTA's routes and increasing service frequency, especially during peak hours and on weekends, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Ensuring ADA compliance on all buses is essential.

Promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, particularly for medical appointments, would also be beneficial. Educating residents about medical transport services and their eligibility requirements would further improve access.

Finally, encouraging the establishment of additional healthcare providers within Walnut Bottom itself would reduce travel times and improve convenience for residents. This multifaceted approach would significantly enhance the overall health score and make 17266 a more accessible and healthier community for all, especially those considering **moving to Walnut Bottom**. The future of healthcare access in this area depends on proactive measures to address the existing challenges and improve the overall health and well-being of its residents.