17327, Glen Rock, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17327, Glen Rock, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.73 percent of residents in 17327 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hanover with a distance of 13.73 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Glen Rock, PA (ZIP Code 17327)

Navigating the landscape of healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially to a charming community like Glen Rock, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17327). This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the various modes of transportation available to reach medical facilities, assessing the ease and efficiency of each, and ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for residents. The goal is to equip prospective residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being within this specific locale.

Glen Rock, nestled in York County, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger urban centers. This geographic positioning significantly impacts the availability and accessibility of healthcare services. While the borough itself may not house a major hospital, the surrounding area provides a network of medical facilities reachable via various transportation options. The "Overall Health Score" considers these options, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses to determine the ease with which residents can access necessary medical care.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation in Glen Rock is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is paramount. The primary thoroughfare connecting Glen Rock to the broader region is **Pennsylvania Route 216**, a vital artery for local travel. Heading south on Route 216, residents can reach **WellSpan Apple Hill Hospital** in York, a comprehensive medical center, in approximately 20-25 minutes. This drive offers a relatively straightforward commute, typically experiencing moderate traffic, especially during peak hours.

Traveling north on Route 216, access to facilities in the Shrewsbury area becomes available. This includes urgent care centers and specialist offices, with drive times averaging 10-15 minutes. The ease of this short commute provides a significant advantage for residents requiring immediate medical attention or routine appointments. Another key route, **Interstate 83**, provides a faster route to York and Harrisburg, but the increased speeds and potential for traffic congestion should be considered.

Navigating to facilities in the Gettysburg area, such as the **WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital**, requires a longer drive, typically around 40-50 minutes, primarily utilizing Route 194 and Route 30. This drive, while manageable, introduces a greater time commitment and potential for delays, especially during inclement weather or holiday travel. These drive times are crucial, as they are the first line of defense in healthcare access.

**Public Transit Realities:**

Public transportation options in Glen Rock are limited, presenting a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **Rabbit Transit** system, the primary public transit provider for York County, offers routes that serve the broader region, but direct routes to healthcare facilities from Glen Rock are scarce.

Route 83 is the most relevant, providing service along the I-83 corridor. However, this route primarily focuses on connecting to major transit hubs and does not directly serve many medical facilities. Passengers would need to transfer at key locations, potentially adding significant travel time and complexity. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of Rabbit Transit buses is generally good, with features like ramps and priority seating. However, the limited route network and infrequent service can hinder healthcare access for those reliant on public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. While available in the Glen Rock area, availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability, especially during off-peak hours or in the early morning or late evening. This inconsistency can pose a challenge for those requiring scheduled medical appointments or urgent care services.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. These services typically require advance booking and can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. Several NEMT providers operate in the York County area, offering a vital service for those with specific transportation needs. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, and availability may be limited.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Glen Rock, PA (ZIP Code 17327) is moderate. While the area benefits from its proximity to York and Shrewsbury, offering relatively short drive times to various healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services impact the overall score.

The availability of personal vehicles is a significant advantage, providing residents with direct access to a wide range of medical services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a vulnerability for those without them. The limited public transit options and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability contribute to a lower score for those who are dependent on these modes of transport.

The presence of medical transport services adds a layer of support for individuals with specific needs, but the cost and booking requirements should be considered. The "Overall Health Score" is also influenced by the distance to larger hospitals, which can necessitate longer travel times, especially for specialized care.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For those considering moving to Glen Rock, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is crucial. The area offers a good base of healthcare options, but the ability to navigate the transportation landscape is key. The relative ease of driving to nearby facilities, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, provides a reasonable level of healthcare access. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential for increased travel times to more distant facilities should be carefully considered.

Prospective residents should assess their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements. If you are reliant on public transit, or have mobility limitations, further investigation into the availability and reliability of alternative transportation options is recommended. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about whether Glen Rock aligns with their healthcare access needs. Moving to Glen Rock can be a positive experience, but knowing the healthcare access landscape is key to your well-being.