17356, Red Lion, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17356, Red Lion, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.20 percent of residents in 17356 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan York Hospital with a distance of 6.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Red Lion, PA (ZIP Code 17356)

The health and well-being of a community are intrinsically linked to its ability to access quality healthcare. This report, focusing on ZIP code 17356 (Red Lion, Pennsylvania), provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, scrutinizing the available transportation options for residents seeking medical attention. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provisions, offering a comprehensive understanding of the accessibility landscape. For those considering moving to Red Lion, understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making.

The foundation of healthcare access in Red Lion is undeniably the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on cars for commuting to medical appointments, with the primary arteries being **Interstate 83 (I-83)**, **Route 74**, and **Route 24**. These highways offer relatively efficient travel, but congestion during peak hours, particularly around York, can significantly impact drive times. The average commute to the nearest hospitals and specialist offices in York, a major healthcare hub, ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the destination and traffic conditions. Further afield, access to larger medical centers in Harrisburg or Lancaster requires a drive of approximately an hour, demanding careful planning.

While personal vehicles are the dominant mode, the reliance on them highlights a potential vulnerability. Individuals without access to a car, or those unable to drive due to age, disability, or other factors, face significant challenges. This underscores the importance of alternative transportation options in the overall health score.

Public transportation, while present, plays a limited role in healthcare access within Red Lion. The **York County Transportation Authority (YCTA)** provides bus services, but routes and schedules are not always conducive to medical appointments. Route 15, for example, offers service through Red Lion, but its frequency and coverage are limited, particularly on weekends and evenings. This necessitates careful coordination and potentially lengthy wait times. ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating, are incorporated on YCTA buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall network’s limitations pose a challenge for those reliant on public transit for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. While readily available in the Red Lion area, the cost can be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the reliability of these services can fluctuate, especially during inclement weather or peak demand periods. Booking in advance is often advisable to ensure timely arrival at medical facilities.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients with mobility limitations, are available in the region. Companies like **AmbuCare** and **Med-Ride** provide non-emergency medical transportation, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit. However, booking in advance is crucial, and the cost can vary depending on the distance and level of assistance required.

The availability of these specialized services adds a layer of complexity to the overall health score. While they offer a crucial lifeline for those with specific needs, their accessibility and affordability must be considered.

The geographical distribution of healthcare providers within and around Red Lion also influences the overall health score. The presence of local family practices and urgent care clinics enhances accessibility for routine medical needs. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or neurology, often requires travel to York or even further afield, adding to the transportation burden. The distance to these specialized services is a critical factor in assessing the overall health score.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Red Lion, PA (17356) presents a mixed picture. While personal vehicles offer relatively convenient access for many, limitations in public transportation, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of medical transport services create challenges for certain segments of the population. The reliance on cars also highlights the importance of infrastructure improvements and alternative transportation solutions.

The score also hinges on the availability and proximity of healthcare facilities. The presence of local primary care providers is a positive factor, but the need to travel for specialized care adds to the overall transportation burden.

For individuals considering moving to Red Lion, the assessment emphasizes the need to carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Those reliant on public transit or with mobility limitations should thoroughly investigate the availability and suitability of alternative transportation options.

The future health score of the community will be shaped by ongoing developments. Investments in public transportation, such as expanded bus routes or the introduction of micro-transit services, could significantly improve healthcare access. The expansion of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could also mitigate the need for frequent travel.

The overall health score is not static; it is a dynamic measure that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape and the community's efforts to ensure equitable access to care. By understanding the current transportation infrastructure and the challenges it presents, Red Lion can work towards improving its overall health score and ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The integration of healthcare access and transportation is a crucial aspect of community well-being.