17322, Felton, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17322, Felton, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.73 percent of residents in 17322 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hanover with a distance of 22.12 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Felton, PA (ZIP Code 17322)

Felton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of York County, offers a charming rural lifestyle. However, prospective residents considering a move to Felton must carefully evaluate the critical factor of healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the transportation infrastructure and its impact on accessing medical services within and around ZIP code 17322. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transportation resources, painting a comprehensive picture for those prioritizing healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" for Felton, PA (17322) is a composite measure reflecting the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare services. It considers the time and effort required to travel to medical facilities, the availability of diverse transportation modes, and the potential challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. This score aims to provide a practical guide for anyone contemplating a move to Felton, especially those with pre-existing health conditions or specific healthcare needs.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

The primary mode of transportation in Felton is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates the speed and convenience of healthcare access. Residents primarily rely on local roads and highways to reach medical facilities.

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Pennsylvania Route 74 (PA-74) and Interstate 83 (I-83). PA-74 provides a direct north-south route, connecting Felton to neighboring towns and cities. I-83 offers faster access to larger medical centers in York and Harrisburg.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial component of the "Overall Health Score." The closest urgent care facility, WellSpan Urgent Care in Red Lion, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via PA-74. For primary care physicians, residents can find practices within a similar timeframe, often located in Red Lion or Dallastown.

Major hospitals, such as UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, require a longer commute, typically 25-35 minutes via I-83. This time can vary depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. Similarly, Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center in Enola, a more distant option, necessitates a drive of approximately one hour via I-83 and US-15.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Felton are limited, significantly impacting the "Overall Health Score." The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus service, but routes and frequency are restricted, particularly in rural areas like Felton.

The YCTA Route 15 operates in the general vicinity of Felton, offering limited service to Red Lion and York. However, the frequency of this route is low, and the service operates primarily during weekday business hours. This makes it less suitable for accessing healthcare appointments, especially those scheduled outside of typical working hours.

Furthermore, the YCTA buses are ADA-accessible, providing ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service significantly reduce the practicality of public transit for healthcare access in Felton.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Felton area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Several providers operate in the York County area, including Med-Trans Corporation and Life Lion EMS. These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles.

The availability of medical transportation services positively impacts the "Overall Health Score" for individuals who require it. However, these services often require advance booking and may involve additional costs.

**Assessing the Overall Health Score:**

Considering the factors discussed, the "Overall Health Score" for Felton, PA (17322) presents a mixed picture. The availability of personal vehicles and the proximity to some healthcare facilities contribute positively. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential for inconsistent ride-share availability, and the reliance on potentially costly medical transportation services negatively impact the score.

The "Overall Health Score" would be considered moderate. While residents can access healthcare, the convenience and ease of access are not as high as in more urban areas with robust public transit systems. Individuals considering a move to Felton should carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation requirements.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

Before moving to Felton, prospective residents should:

* **Assess their healthcare needs:** Determine the frequency of medical appointments and the types of healthcare services required.
* **Evaluate transportation options:** Consider the availability of a personal vehicle and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation services.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify nearby healthcare facilities and assess the drive times and accessibility of these facilities.
* **Factor in potential costs:** Estimate the costs associated with transportation, including fuel, ride-sharing fees, and medical transportation services.

By carefully considering these factors, prospective residents can make an informed decision about whether Felton, PA (17322) is the right place for them, particularly concerning their healthcare access needs. The focus on transportation and healthcare access is critical when considering moving to Felton.