17350, New Oxford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17350, New Oxford, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.04 percent of residents in 17350 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hanover with a distance of 6.47 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17350 (New Oxford, PA)

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount when assessing the overall health of a community. In the charming borough of New Oxford, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17350), this analysis delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the accessibility of medical services and ultimately, constructing an "Overall Health Score." This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transportation, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those contemplating moving to New Oxford.

New Oxford, nestled in Adams County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its rural setting necessitates careful consideration of transportation options when it comes to healthcare access. The ability to reach doctors, hospitals, and specialists directly impacts the health and well-being of the community.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and around New Oxford are US Route 30, Pennsylvania Route 94, and various local roads. These roadways are essential for navigating the region. The time it takes to reach healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in our health score calculation.

For immediate care, the closest emergency room is at UPMC Hanover, approximately 15 miles away. This drive, typically taking around 20-30 minutes, is contingent on traffic conditions. The route primarily involves traveling east on US Route 30. During peak hours, traffic congestion can extend this travel time, emphasizing the importance of planning and awareness.

Specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, might necessitate trips to facilities in York or Gettysburg. Reaching WellSpan York Hospital, roughly 25 miles away, involves a 35-45 minute drive primarily via PA-94 South to US-30 East. Gettysburg Hospital, a shorter 10-15 minute drive, offers a closer alternative.

The convenience of a car is undeniable in this area. However, the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of considering those who may not have access to one.

**Public Transit: A Limited Role:**

Public transportation options in and around New Oxford are limited. The rabbittransit system offers some service, but its routes and frequency are not designed for frequent medical appointments. The availability of public transit plays a significant role in our health score.

Rabbittransit Route 25 provides limited service within Adams County. While this route may offer some connectivity, its schedule and frequency are not tailored to the specific needs of healthcare access. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility challenges. Confirming the accessibility of each bus is a must.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The limited options create barriers to accessing necessary medical care.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, providing an alternative to driving or relying on public transit. However, their availability and cost can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by ambulance companies or private medical transport providers, cater to individuals with specific needs. These services are essential for those requiring assistance with mobility or medical supervision during transport.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services adds a layer of flexibility to the transportation landscape. However, their accessibility and affordability are crucial considerations in our health score assessment.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Perspective:**

Healthcare access is not solely determined by the distance to medical facilities. Other factors, such as insurance coverage, appointment availability, and the availability of specialized services, also play a crucial role.

The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities within a reasonable distance is essential for maintaining good health. The ability to schedule timely appointments and receive prompt medical attention directly impacts the overall health of the community.

**Overall Health Score Calculation:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 17350 is a composite metric, incorporating the factors discussed above. It considers drive times to various medical facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, and the overall healthcare infrastructure in the area.

The score is calculated using a weighted system, with each factor contributing to the final score. Drive times are given significant weight, reflecting the importance of timely access to medical care. Public transit availability and accessibility are also heavily weighted, recognizing the needs of those without personal vehicles. Ride-sharing and medical transportation options contribute to the score, adding flexibility and support for specific needs.

The final score is expressed on a scale, with higher scores indicating better healthcare access. This score serves as a valuable tool for residents, prospective movers, and healthcare providers, offering insights into the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare transportation landscape.

**Impact on Moving to New Oxford:**

For individuals considering moving to New Oxford, the "Overall Health Score" provides essential information. It allows prospective residents to evaluate the ease of accessing healthcare services, considering their individual needs and circumstances.

The score helps prospective residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. It allows them to assess the practicality of relying on personal vehicles, the feasibility of using public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 17350 is influenced by a combination of factors. While the area benefits from its proximity to various medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer some flexibility, but their availability and affordability are crucial considerations. The final score reflects the overall accessibility of healthcare services, providing valuable insights for residents, prospective movers, and healthcare providers. The score is a dynamic measure, and it is essential to regularly update it to reflect changes in the transportation landscape and healthcare infrastructure. It's a crucial factor when moving to New Oxford.