17306, Bendersville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17306, Bendersville, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.39 percent of residents in 17306 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 11.10 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17306 (Bendersville, PA)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Bendersville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17306), necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access. This includes a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and reliably is a critical determinant of health outcomes, especially in a rural area like Bendersville. This report analyzes the available transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport services, to provide a nuanced understanding of healthcare accessibility.

The primary challenge for Bendersville residents is the relative scarcity of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity. This necessitates travel to neighboring towns and cities for routine checkups, specialized care, and emergency services. The primary arteries for transportation are Route 30, Route 94, and Route 394. These highways and roads are the lifelines connecting Bendersville to larger population centers like Gettysburg, Hanover, and York.

Driving times are a significant factor. Reaching Gettysburg, the closest town with a significant concentration of healthcare providers, typically takes between 15 and 25 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. Hanover, further east, is about a 30- to 45-minute drive. York, with its more extensive medical infrastructure, is approximately a 45- to 60-minute commute. These drive times, while manageable for many, can pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues, those without personal vehicles, or during inclement weather.

Public transportation options are limited in Bendersville. The Gettysburg Transit Authority (GTA) provides some service within Adams County, but its routes and frequency are not extensive. ADA-accessible buses are available, but the routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, and the schedules may not align with appointments. Reliance on public transit for healthcare access can therefore be time-consuming and potentially unreliable.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability, particularly during off-peak hours or in less densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, especially in emergencies, can be a concern.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with specific needs, offer a specialized solution. These services, often provided by companies like MedStar or local ambulance services, cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility, such as those using wheelchairs or needing stretcher transport. These services are often coordinated through healthcare providers or insurance companies. While providing a crucial service, they can be costly and may require advance scheduling.

For individuals considering moving to Bendersville, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. The availability of personal vehicles is almost essential for convenient access to healthcare. Those without a car would be heavily reliant on less convenient options. The potential for long travel times to reach medical facilities should be a significant consideration.

The overall health score for Bendersville residents is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While the area is not completely isolated, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create barriers to healthcare access for some. The drive times to larger towns with healthcare providers are manageable but can be problematic for certain demographics.

The availability of ride-sharing services provides an alternative, but their reliability and cost are factors to consider. Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for those with specific needs, but they are not a universal solution. The health score is further influenced by the area's demographics, including the age and health status of the population. A higher proportion of elderly residents or individuals with chronic conditions would increase the need for reliable and accessible transportation.

Improving the health score for Bendersville requires strategic interventions. Expanding public transit routes and increasing frequency would significantly improve healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Encouraging the development of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person visits.

The local government and healthcare providers should collaborate to educate residents about available transportation options and resources. This includes information on public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers. Providing assistance with transportation costs, particularly for low-income residents, could further enhance healthcare access.

Ultimately, improving the health score for Bendersville hinges on a multifaceted approach. Addressing the transportation challenges, expanding access to healthcare services, and promoting preventative care are all essential components. By proactively addressing these issues, the community can create a healthier and more vibrant environment for all its residents. The success of these efforts will be measured by improved health outcomes and increased satisfaction with healthcare access. The goal is to ensure that all residents of Bendersville, regardless of their transportation limitations, can receive the timely and appropriate medical care they need.