19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19027, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.39 percent of residents in 19027 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Abington Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Elkins Park, PA (ZIP Code 19027)

Considering a move to the charming suburb of Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, with its tree-lined streets and historic architecture? Beyond the allure of its community, it's crucial to understand its healthcare accessibility. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, focusing on the critical aspect of transportation to medical facilities within and around the 19027 ZIP code. This score considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and their impact on accessing healthcare services.

Elkins Park’s health score is inextricably linked to its transportation infrastructure. The ease with which residents can reach medical appointments, emergency rooms, and specialized care profoundly influences their overall well-being. Factors like drive times, public transportation availability, and the presence of ride-sharing services contribute significantly to this score. The goal is to paint a clear picture for prospective residents, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, navigating to healthcare facilities in and around Elkins Park is generally manageable, but not without considerations. The primary arteries for commuting are the **PA Turnpike (I-276)**, the **Schuylkill Expressway (I-76)**, and **Route 309 (Cheltenham Avenue)**. These highways and roadways are crucial for accessing hospitals and medical centers.

Drive times vary depending on the destination and the time of day. During peak hours, congestion on the Schuylkill Expressway can significantly increase travel times, especially when heading towards Center City Philadelphia, where many specialized medical practices are located. Route 309, while less prone to gridlock, can also experience delays. The PA Turnpike, offering a more direct route in some instances, incurs tolls.

For example, driving to Einstein Medical Center, a major hospital located in the neighboring community of Philadelphia, typically takes around 10-15 minutes via Route 309, barring heavy traffic. Reaching Abington Hospital, another prominent healthcare provider, might take approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on the specific route taken. The availability of ample parking at these facilities is another aspect to consider.

**Public Transportation: A Viable Alternative:**

Elkins Park boasts a relatively robust public transportation system, offering an alternative to driving. The **Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)** provides several options for accessing healthcare. The **Regional Rail** system, specifically the **Warminster Line**, has a station in Elkins Park, providing direct access to Center City Philadelphia and connections to other regional rail lines. This can be a convenient option for those seeking appointments at hospitals like Jefferson or Penn Presbyterian.

Bus routes also serve the area. **SEPTA Bus Route 22** is a key route, running along Cheltenham Avenue and connecting to various healthcare facilities and other transportation hubs. **SEPTA Bus Route 28** also provides access to healthcare facilities. While the bus system offers a more affordable alternative, it's essential to factor in travel times, which can be significantly longer than driving, especially during off-peak hours.

The accessibility of public transit for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor. SEPTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by providing accessible stations and vehicles. The Regional Rail stations are generally ADA-compliant, with elevators and ramps. SEPTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts. However, it's always advisable to confirm the accessibility of a specific route or station before relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like **Uber** and **Lyft** are readily available in Elkins Park, offering a convenient option for transportation to healthcare appointments. These services can be particularly useful for those who cannot drive or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can be a good option for those who are not able to take public transportation or drive themselves.

Several medical transportation companies also operate in the area, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These companies often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. Some of the medical transportation brands serving the Elkins Park area include **CareRide**, **MedTrans**, and **American Medical Response (AMR)**. These services can be particularly valuable for those requiring assistance or specialized transportation.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Considering the various transportation options available, Elkins Park receives a solid "Overall Health Score." The availability of both personal vehicle access and public transportation, including the Regional Rail and bus routes, provides residents with multiple avenues to reach healthcare facilities. The presence of ride-sharing services and medical transportation companies further enhances accessibility, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those who prefer not to drive.

However, there are areas for improvement. The reliance on highways and roadways, especially during peak hours, can lead to increased travel times. While SEPTA offers a viable alternative, longer travel times on buses and potential accessibility issues on certain routes are factors to consider.

**Recommendations:**

Prospective residents considering moving to Elkins Park should carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs. Those who rely on public transit should familiarize themselves with SEPTA routes and schedules. Individuals with mobility challenges should investigate the availability of accessible transportation options, including ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers.

For those who drive, understanding traffic patterns and planning for potential delays is essential. Researching the proximity of healthcare facilities to their homes and workplaces is crucial.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for Elkins Park is positive. The community provides a good balance of transportation options, ensuring that residents have reasonable access to healthcare services. By understanding the available transportation infrastructure and planning accordingly, residents can confidently navigate the healthcare landscape and maintain their well-being. The ease of **transportation** directly influences **healthcare access**, a key consideration for anyone **moving to Elkins Park**.