19009, Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19009, Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.05 percent of residents in 19009 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holy Redeemer Hospital And Medical Center with a distance of 1.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bryn Athyn (ZIP Code 19009)

The picturesque community of Bryn Athyn, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19009), known for its stunning cathedral and close-knit atmosphere, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly regarding healthcare access. This analysis delves into the complexities of transportation options and their impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities, ultimately formulating an "Overall Health Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare system. Prospective residents considering moving to Bryn Athyn should carefully weigh these factors.

The primary challenge in Bryn Athyn stems from its relatively secluded location. While offering tranquility, this isolation translates to a dependence on personal transportation for most healthcare needs. The absence of a dedicated local hospital necessitates travel to surrounding communities. This dependence shapes the overall health score, placing a premium on efficient and reliable transportation.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Access**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Bryn Athyn is the personal vehicle. The primary roadways serving the area are crucial to understanding the commute. The primary artery is **PA Route 232 (Huntingdon Pike)**, which provides direct access to neighboring towns and healthcare facilities. However, this road can experience significant congestion during peak hours, potentially increasing drive times and impacting healthcare access.

To the south, **Moreland Road** offers another route, connecting to major thoroughfares like the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276)**. The Turnpike, while offering high-speed travel, incurs tolls, adding to the overall cost of healthcare access. Traveling north on **PA Route 232** leads to **County Line Road**, providing access to facilities in Montgomery County.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. For example, a trip to Abington Hospital-Jefferson Health, a major regional hospital, typically takes 15-25 minutes via **PA Route 232** or **Moreland Road**, excluding potential traffic delays. Lower-acuity care, such as urgent care centers or primary care physician offices, can be found closer, often within a 10-15 minute drive. However, the availability of specialists and the need for specialized care may necessitate longer journeys, potentially impacting the overall health score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Bryn Athyn are limited, significantly impacting the overall health score. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides bus service, but routes serving Bryn Athyn are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

**SEPTA Route 24** is the primary bus route serving the area. However, its schedule may not align with the needs of those seeking medical appointments, especially during off-peak hours or weekends. Furthermore, the route's reach is limited, potentially requiring transfers and longer travel times to reach desired healthcare destinations.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. SEPTA strives to provide accessible services, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the availability of accessible features on all buses and at all stops cannot be guaranteed, potentially presenting challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. The infrequent service and limited coverage of public transit significantly impact the overall health score, particularly for those without access to personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times and offering door-to-door service. However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate based on demand and distance, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer specialized assistance. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often require prior scheduling and may have eligibility requirements, but they can be invaluable for individuals with disabilities or limited mobility. The availability and accessibility of these services contribute positively to the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access encompasses more than just physical transportation. The availability of healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and the cost of care are all critical factors. Bryn Athyn residents benefit from proximity to a range of healthcare facilities in surrounding communities. However, navigating the healthcare system, including scheduling appointments, obtaining referrals, and understanding insurance coverage, can be complex.

The overall health score must consider the interplay of transportation, healthcare provider availability, and financial considerations. While Bryn Athyn benefits from its proximity to a diverse healthcare landscape, the limited public transportation options and dependence on personal vehicles present challenges. The cost of transportation, including gas, tolls, and ride-sharing fees, can add to the financial burden of healthcare.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite Assessment**

Considering all factors, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Bryn Athyn (ZIP code 19009) is moderately positive. The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance is a significant advantage. However, the limited public transportation options and dependence on personal vehicles, coupled with potential traffic congestion and the cost of transportation, lower the score.

The score can be improved by:

* **Advocating for increased public transportation service** to connect Bryn Athyn with healthcare facilities.
* **Promoting ride-sharing programs** and subsidized transportation options for low-income residents.
* **Supporting the expansion of telehealth services** to reduce the need for in-person visits.
* **Encouraging the development of local healthcare services**, such as urgent care centers or primary care physician offices, within Bryn Athyn.

For individuals considering moving to Bryn Athyn, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. The Overall Health Score provides a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in this unique community, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.