17302, Airville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17302, Airville, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.09 percent of residents in 17302 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lancaster General Hospital with a distance of 17.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Airville (ZIP Code 17302)

Airville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the rolling hills of York County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Assessing the overall health score for residents in ZIP code 17302 requires a nuanced understanding of the transportation infrastructure, the availability of healthcare facilities, and the ease with which residents can connect the two. This write-up delves into the specifics of commuting to healthcare, offering a comprehensive perspective for prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Airville.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Airville is transportation. Unlike urban centers with robust public transit, Airville relies heavily on personal vehicles. The network of roads, including **Interstate 83**, the primary artery, and the more local **Pennsylvania Route 74** and **Pennsylvania Route 30**, dictates the speed and efficiency of reaching medical appointments. Rural roads, while scenic, can present challenges during inclement weather, potentially delaying or even preventing access to crucial care.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day. York, the nearest city with a concentration of hospitals and specialist clinics, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via I-83. This commute can be significantly impacted by rush hour traffic, particularly during the morning and evening commutes. Destinations closer to Airville, such as urgent care facilities in Red Lion, may be accessible within 15-20 minutes via PA-74, offering a quicker option for immediate needs.

Public transportation options in Airville are limited. The **Rabbit Transit** system, which serves York County, offers some routes, but they are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting larger towns. While the system is ADA-accessible, with features like ramps and lifts, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules make it a less-than-ideal option for many residents needing to access healthcare. The absence of dedicated bus routes specifically serving medical facilities further complicates matters.

For those without personal vehicles or unable to drive, ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** provide a potential alternative. However, the availability of these services in Airville can be variable, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make them an expensive option. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is not always guaranteed, potentially causing delays or missed appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as **Med-Trans** and **CareRide**, offer specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services typically require advance booking and can be a more expensive option than other forms of transportation. However, they provide a valuable service for those who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transportation. The accessibility of these services, including their availability and cost, should be carefully considered when evaluating the overall health score.

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is another critical factor. While Airville itself does not have a hospital, residents have access to a range of healthcare providers in nearby towns and cities. **WellSpan York Hospital**, a major medical center, offers comprehensive services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and a wide array of specialists. **UPMC Memorial**, also in York, provides another option for comprehensive care.

In addition to hospitals, Airville residents can access various clinics, urgent care facilities, and primary care physicians in surrounding communities. **WellSpan Urgent Care** locations in Red Lion and other nearby towns offer convenient options for immediate medical needs. The availability of primary care physicians is crucial for preventative care and ongoing health management. The proximity and accessibility of these providers directly impact the overall health score for residents.

The overall health score for Airville, therefore, is a complex calculation. While the area offers a peaceful and desirable living environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges to healthcare access. The drive times to hospitals and clinics, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs associated with medical transportation all contribute to the overall assessment.

For individuals considering moving to Airville, a thorough evaluation of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who can drive and have reliable access to a vehicle will likely find healthcare access manageable. However, individuals who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully consider the challenges they may face.

The health score is also influenced by the individual's health status and their need for specialized medical care. Residents with chronic conditions or frequent medical appointments will need to factor in the time and cost associated with transportation. The availability of specialists and the ability to schedule timely appointments are also critical considerations.

The overall health score for Airville, therefore, is not a simple number. It is a multifaceted assessment that considers the interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and individual needs. While the community offers a desirable living environment, potential residents must carefully evaluate the transportation challenges and ensure they have a plan to access the healthcare they need.

The quality of life in Airville is undeniably attractive, but prospective residents must factor in the realities of transportation. The ability to easily navigate the roads, utilize ride-sharing, or access medical transportation services directly impacts the overall health score. The absence of a robust public transit system is a significant factor to consider when evaluating the community.

The future of healthcare access in Airville may involve exploring options to improve transportation. This could include expanding the Rabbit Transit system, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, or investing in community-based transportation programs. Such improvements would significantly enhance the overall health score for residents and make Airville an even more desirable place to live.

Ultimately, the overall health score for Airville reflects the interplay of various factors. While the community offers a desirable living environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose challenges to healthcare access. Prospective residents must carefully evaluate their individual needs and consider the realities of transportation when making their decision. The health score is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that can evolve as the community addresses the challenges of healthcare access.