17352, New Park, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17352, New Park, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.07 percent of residents in 17352 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Hanover with a distance of 25.89 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17352 (New Park, PA)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately woven into the fabric of its accessibility to healthcare. In the charming borough of New Park, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17352), this accessibility hinges significantly on the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in this area, considering various transportation options, drive times, public transit, and other relevant factors. Understanding these nuances is crucial for both current residents and those contemplating moving to New Park, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in New Park is the reliance on personal vehicles. The rural nature of the area, nestled amidst rolling hills and farmland, dictates that driving is the most prevalent mode of transportation. The primary thoroughfares for reaching healthcare facilities are Pennsylvania Route 851, which bisects the borough, and Pennsylvania Route 516, providing connections to larger towns and cities. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting drive times to essential medical appointments.

The closest significant medical centers are located in the neighboring towns of Shrewsbury and Red Lion, Pennsylvania. Reaching UPMC Memorial Hospital in York, a more comprehensive facility, necessitates a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey typically involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 851 to Interstate 83 South, a major artery connecting York to Harrisburg. Other facilities, like WellSpan Apple Hill Hospital in York, present similar drive times, often utilizing the same highway infrastructure.

Public transportation options in New Park are limited. The York County Transportation Authority (YCTA) provides bus service, but routes serving New Park are infrequent and primarily cater to commuters traveling to York. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive aspect, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and route coverage pose a significant challenge for those relying on public transit for healthcare access. The lack of direct routes to medical facilities necessitates multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and potentially deterring individuals from seeking timely medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. However, the availability of these services in New Park can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited financial resources. While offering a degree of flexibility, ride-sharing cannot be considered a consistently reliable option for healthcare access in this area.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or requiring specialized assistance, are available in the region. These services, often provided by companies like MedTrans or local ambulance services, offer transportation to and from medical appointments. However, these services typically require prior scheduling and can be costly, especially for routine appointments. They serve as a crucial resource for specific needs but are not a readily available solution for all residents.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in New Park, Pennsylvania (17352) reflects a mixed picture. The dependence on personal vehicles and the drive times to medical facilities present a moderate challenge. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation. While medical transportation services provide a valuable resource for specific needs, their availability and cost can be restrictive.

For those considering moving to New Park, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Individuals who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the feasibility of accessing medical care. The availability of reliable transportation, whether through personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport, is a critical factor in ensuring timely access to healthcare services.

The community's overall health is directly linked to the accessibility of healthcare. Enhancing public transportation options, promoting ride-sharing initiatives, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation services would significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" for residents of New Park. Further, the strategic placement of satellite medical clinics or urgent care facilities within or near the borough would drastically improve healthcare access, reducing travel times and improving the overall well-being of the community.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening roads or implementing traffic management systems, can mitigate congestion and reduce drive times. Educational campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles and preventative care are also crucial, as early detection and treatment of health issues can reduce the need for frequent and time-consuming trips to medical facilities.

The future of healthcare access in New Park hinges on a collaborative approach. Local government, healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations must work together to address the existing challenges and implement solutions that prioritize the health and well-being of all residents. This collaborative effort will ensure that New Park remains a desirable place to live, where healthcare access is not a barrier but a readily available resource for all. The overall health of a community is a shared responsibility, and in New Park, the path to optimal health lies in improving access to healthcare for everyone.