17307, Biglerville, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17307, Biglerville, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.53 percent of residents in 17307 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 8.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Biglerville (ZIP Code 17307)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. For residents of Biglerville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17307), this access is significantly shaped by the available transportation options. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the multifaceted landscape of commuting to medical facilities, weighing factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Biglerville, as it directly impacts their well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access in Biglerville is built on the road network. Primary access to larger medical centers relies on efficient travel via Pennsylvania Route 394, also known as Gettysburg Pike, which serves as a major artery connecting Biglerville to Gettysburg. Further afield, access to more specialized care often necessitates travel on U.S. Route 30, a major east-west corridor, and ultimately, Interstate 81, providing access to Harrisburg and beyond.

Drive times are a critical factor. To Gettysburg Hospital, located roughly 10 miles south, the drive typically takes 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions on Route 394. However, during peak commuting hours or in the event of accidents, this time can easily double. For more specialized care, such as that offered at UPMC Harrisburg or Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, the travel time increases considerably. A trip to Harrisburg, approximately 40 miles east via Route 30 and I-83, can take up to an hour, while Hershey, another 60 miles, may require a 90-minute journey, making reliable transportation a necessity.

Public transportation options in Biglerville are limited. The Gettysburg Transit Authority (GTA) provides some service within the Gettysburg area, but routes directly serving Biglerville are infrequent. The GTA's Route 1, for instance, may provide some limited connectivity, but it primarily focuses on Gettysburg and surrounding areas, with limited accessibility to Biglerville. Furthermore, the GTA’s ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is an essential consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. Specific details on the frequency, route accessibility, and ADA-compliant features of the GTA routes should be thoroughly investigated by potential residents.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, presents another layer of transportation options. While these services are generally available in the Gettysburg area, their reliability and affordability in Biglerville can fluctuate. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is a significant concern. The cost of these services, particularly for longer trips to Harrisburg or Hershey, can also be a barrier for some residents. The economics of transportation is a crucial factor for healthcare access.

Medical transport services play a vital role, particularly for individuals with disabilities or those requiring specialized care. Companies like Life Lion and other regional ambulance services provide emergency and non-emergency medical transportation. These services are crucial for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. The availability and response times of these services are critical components of the overall healthcare access picture.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Biglerville is influenced by the balance between these factors. While the proximity to Gettysburg provides relatively quick access to some medical services, the limitations in public transportation, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the longer travel times to specialized care facilities pose challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership and the associated costs of vehicle maintenance, fuel, and insurance.

For individuals considering moving to Biglerville, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Those with chronic health conditions or limited mobility should carefully evaluate the available transportation options and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access. Prospective residents should also research the specific healthcare providers and facilities they may need to access and factor in the associated travel times and costs.

The "Overall Health Score" for Biglerville, therefore, is moderate. The community benefits from its proximity to Gettysburg and the availability of medical transport services. However, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles for access to specialized care create challenges. The quality of life in Biglerville is directly influenced by the efficiency and accessibility of its transportation infrastructure, which impacts the ability of residents to receive timely and appropriate medical care. This is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move to this charming Pennsylvania town.