19026, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19026, Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania is 82 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.62 percent of residents in 19026 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Delaware County Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.01 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in Drexel Hill (ZIP Code 19026)

Considering a move to Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19026)? Beyond the charming suburban atmosphere and proximity to Philadelphia, understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This "Overall Health Score" delves into the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access, providing a comprehensive view of the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility within this desirable community.

The foundation of healthcare access rests on efficient transportation. For residents of Drexel Hill, the car remains a dominant mode of travel. Navigating the roadways, especially during peak hours, is crucial. The major arteries facilitating healthcare access include **West Chester Pike (Route 3)**, a primary east-west thoroughfare lined with businesses and residential areas. Driving east on West Chester Pike leads directly towards Philadelphia, offering access to a vast array of hospitals and medical specialists.

Another vital route is **Burmont Road**, which intersects with West Chester Pike, providing access to local medical offices and connecting to other essential roads. **State Road**, running north-south, offers another route for residents to access healthcare facilities. Expect travel times to vary depending on the destination and the time of day. A trip to a nearby primary care physician might take 5-10 minutes, while reaching a major hospital in Philadelphia could extend to 20-45 minutes, especially during rush hour.

For those heading into Philadelphia, the **Schuylkill Expressway (I-76)** provides a direct route, but traffic congestion is a constant concern. The **Blue Route (I-476)** offers an alternative, potentially faster route to hospitals located further west or north of Philadelphia. However, it's essential to factor in potential delays due to accidents or construction, which can significantly impact healthcare access. Careful planning and real-time traffic updates are essential for timely medical appointments.

Public transportation provides an alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid traffic. SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) offers several bus routes serving Drexel Hill. **Route 101**, a trolley line, provides a direct connection to the 69th Street Transportation Center, a major hub for regional rail and bus services. This offers access to a wider network of healthcare facilities, including those in Center City Philadelphia.

Several bus routes, including **Routes 102, 103, and 104**, also traverse Drexel Hill, connecting residents to various destinations and medical facilities. These routes offer frequent service, but travel times can be longer than driving due to multiple stops and potential traffic delays.

The accessibility of SEPTA services for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. All SEPTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating areas for passengers with disabilities. The 101 trolley line is also accessible. The 69th Street Transportation Center provides accessible elevators, escalators, and ramps, ensuring ease of movement for all passengers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services are readily available in Drexel Hill and provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The convenience of ride-sharing is undeniable, but costs can fluctuate based on demand and distance.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized solution. Companies like **Medical Transportation Services (MTS)** and **American Medical Response (AMR)** operate in the Philadelphia area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance.

Evaluating the "Overall Health Score" requires a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape. Drexel Hill residents enjoy access to a range of local medical offices, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers. However, the availability of specialized medical services, such as advanced cardiac care or specialized cancer treatment, may necessitate travel to larger hospitals in Philadelphia.

The presence of nearby hospitals, such as **Delaware County Memorial Hospital** and **Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital**, provides convenient access to emergency care and general medical services. However, the concentration of major hospitals and specialized medical centers in Philadelphia underscores the importance of efficient transportation options.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Drexel Hill is positive, but not without challenges. The availability of multiple transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, enhances accessibility. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times.

Public transportation, while offering a cost-effective alternative, may involve longer travel times. The accessibility of SEPTA services for individuals with disabilities is a significant advantage. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide convenient solutions for specific needs.

Considering a move to Drexel Hill? Weigh the convenience of local medical offices against the potential need for travel to Philadelphia for specialized care. Factor in the availability of various transportation options and their associated costs and travel times. With careful planning and awareness of the transportation landscape, residents of Drexel Hill can navigate the healthcare system effectively, ensuring access to the medical care they need. This detailed assessment provides a solid foundation for understanding healthcare access, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.