17323, Franklintown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17323, Franklintown, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.68 percent of residents in 17323 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Carlisle with a distance of 12.55 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Franklintown (ZIP Code 17323)

Franklintown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of York County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 17323, evaluates the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. We'll delve into the complexities of transportation, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, ultimately assigning an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the accessibility of healthcare. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Franklintown, as it directly impacts their ability to maintain their well-being.

The foundation of healthcare access lies in the ability to physically reach medical facilities. For residents of 17323, this often translates to navigating the network of roads that weave through the region. The primary arteries for transportation are US Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare, and Pennsylvania Route 74, running north-south. These highways, along with smaller roads like Baltimore Pike and Church Road, form the skeleton of the transportation infrastructure. Drive times to healthcare providers, such as hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialist offices, are therefore heavily influenced by traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours.

A significant portion of healthcare access hinges on the availability of public transportation. In Franklintown, the York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus services. While the exact routes serving 17323 may vary, residents can generally access routes connecting to larger hubs like York City. However, the frequency of these routes and their coverage within the ZIP code are essential considerations. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can also access healthcare. The success of public transit as a healthcare access solution hinges on its efficiency, affordability, and inclusivity.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas, and their presence significantly impacts healthcare access. The availability of these services in 17323 and their pricing structure are critical factors. Ride-sharing can offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. However, surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can pose a barrier to access, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources.

Beyond standard transportation options, specialized medical transport services play a crucial role, especially for those with mobility limitations or requiring advanced medical care. These services, often offered by companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide door-to-door assistance, ensuring that patients can reach their appointments safely and comfortably. The availability of these services in 17323, the types of vehicles offered, and the costs associated with them are all important considerations.

Evaluating the overall health score involves considering a multitude of factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities are paramount. The proximity of hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialist offices, as well as the ease of access via major roads like US Route 30 and PA Route 74, directly impacts the score. Longer drive times, especially during peak traffic, negatively impact the score.

The reliability and frequency of public transportation, provided by the YCTA, also contribute to the overall score. Frequent and reliable bus routes, with ADA accessibility, enhance the score. Limited service, infrequent routes, or a lack of ADA compliance detract from the score. The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, adds to the score, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the affordability and consistency of these services are crucial; high surge pricing can negatively impact the score.

The presence and availability of specialized medical transport services are also essential. The availability of NEMT services, with accessible vehicles and trained personnel, significantly boosts the score, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. A lack of such services or limited availability detracts from the score. The overall health score is a holistic measure, weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each transportation mode.

The final "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 17323 is determined by the interplay of these factors. It is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment reflecting the current state of transportation infrastructure and service availability. For someone moving to Franklintown, this score provides a valuable snapshot of the ease with which they can access healthcare.

Considering all these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 17323 is a moderate rating. While the presence of major roads like US Route 30 and PA Route 74 provides a framework for transportation, reliance on personal vehicles is high. Public transportation options, while present, may have limited coverage and frequency. Ride-sharing services offer an alternative, but costs and availability can be a concern. Specialized medical transport services may be available, but their specific coverage and cost are crucial considerations.

This assessment underscores the importance of careful planning for those moving to Franklintown. Prospective residents should research the location of healthcare providers, assess the feasibility of driving, and investigate public transportation options. They should also familiarize themselves with ride-sharing availability and costs, and explore the availability of specialized medical transport services if needed.

The "Overall Health Score" is a valuable tool for understanding healthcare access in 17323. It highlights the challenges and opportunities that residents face in reaching essential medical services. By understanding the transportation landscape, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure their well-being. This information is particularly crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Franklintown, allowing them to factor healthcare access into their decision-making process.