17314, Delta, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17314, Delta, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

24.97 percent of residents in 17314 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hanover with a distance of 34.29 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17314

Delta, Pennsylvania, nestled in the rolling hills of York County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 17314, explores the accessibility of medical services, evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital care. We will delve into transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and assess their impact on the overall health score, considering the crucial connection between transportation and healthcare access. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding for anyone considering moving to Delta, Pennsylvania, or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The primary challenge for residents of 17314 is the rural nature of the area. While offering a peaceful lifestyle, this characteristic often translates to longer travel times to reach medical facilities. Personal vehicles remain the dominant mode of transportation. The primary arteries for commuting are Pennsylvania Route 74 (PA-74), which runs north-south, and Pennsylvania Route 425 (PA-425), which connects Delta to the east. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying access to urgent care.

Drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities vary significantly. The closest urgent care centers, such as WellSpan Urgent Care in Shrewsbury (approximately 20 minutes via PA-74 South) and UPMC Urgent Care in Red Lion (roughly 30 minutes via PA-74 South and then PA-24 East), are accessible within a reasonable timeframe. However, specialized care and hospital services often necessitate longer journeys.

York Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, is about a 45-minute drive via PA-74 South and then I-83 South. Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center, located in Mechanicsburg, is a significantly longer commute, potentially exceeding an hour, depending on traffic conditions on I-83 North. These longer drive times can pose a significant barrier for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in 17314. The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus service throughout the county, but routes serving Delta are infrequent and may not directly connect to major healthcare facilities. The YCTA Route 15, for instance, travels through Delta, but its schedule and frequency may not be conducive to timely medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with disabilities, and while the YCTA strives to provide such services, it is essential to confirm route-specific accessibility features.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability and cost can vary depending on demand and time of day. In rural areas, ride-sharing services may be less readily accessible than in urban centers, potentially leading to longer wait times and higher fares. Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies, are primarily reserved for emergencies and may not be a practical solution for routine medical appointments.

Medical transportation companies such as MedTrans Corporation and American Medical Response (AMR) are available for non-emergency medical transport. These services, while providing a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations, often require pre-booking and can be costly. The availability of these services should be considered, especially for those without reliable transportation.

The overall health score for transportation access in 17314 is moderately impacted by the limitations in transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the longer drive times to specialized care, presents a challenge. The scarcity of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further compound the issue.

For individuals considering moving to Delta, Pennsylvania, or for existing residents, careful consideration should be given to healthcare access. Proximity to medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and the ability to navigate the local roadways are crucial factors.

The health score is also influenced by the availability of preventative care. The accessibility of primary care physicians and specialists within a reasonable distance is critical for maintaining good health. Access to pharmacies for prescription refills and the availability of telehealth services can also mitigate some of the transportation challenges.

The quality of healthcare facilities in the region is also a factor. The presence of reputable hospitals, specialized clinics, and skilled medical professionals can significantly improve the overall health score. The availability of emergency services and the response times of first responders are also important considerations.

The health score is not solely determined by transportation. Factors such as socioeconomic status, access to healthy food, and environmental conditions also play a significant role. However, transportation is a critical component, acting as a gateway to healthcare access.

For residents of 17314, proactive planning is essential. Utilizing online resources to identify healthcare providers, scheduling appointments in advance, and exploring all available transportation options can help mitigate the challenges of accessing medical care.

The future of healthcare access in Delta may involve innovative solutions. The expansion of telehealth services, the potential for increased public transit options, and the growth of ride-sharing services could all improve the overall health score. Community initiatives to promote carpooling and provide transportation assistance to those in need could also play a vital role.

In conclusion, the overall health score for transportation access in 17314 reflects the realities of rural living. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options require careful consideration. By understanding the challenges and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents can optimize their access to vital medical services. As the area evolves, continued efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand healthcare options will be critical to enhancing the overall health score and ensuring that all residents have access to the care they need.