19050, Lansdowne, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19050, Lansdowne, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.64 percent of residents in 19050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Catholic Medical Center- Mercy Fitzgerald with a distance of 0.85 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 19050 (Lansdowne, PA)

Considering a move to the charming borough of Lansdowne, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19050)? Beyond the allure of tree-lined streets and historic architecture, a crucial factor in your decision should be the accessibility of healthcare. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for 19050, evaluating the ease with which residents can access medical services, considering transportation options and potential challenges. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

Lansdowne's location, nestled in Delaware County, offers both advantages and disadvantages regarding healthcare access. Proximity to Philadelphia provides a wealth of medical facilities, but the realities of transportation can significantly impact a resident's health and well-being. This score aims to inform prospective residents about the practicalities of getting to appointments, filling prescriptions, and receiving urgent care.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Navigating the Roads**

For those relying on personal vehicles, understanding drive times is paramount. The primary arteries serving 19050 include Baltimore Avenue (US-1), Lansdowne Avenue, and Garrett Road. Accessing major hospitals and specialist practices often involves navigating these roads, which can experience heavy congestion during peak hours.

Driving to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), a renowned academic medical center in West Philadelphia, typically takes 20-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey involves heading east on Lansdowne Avenue, connecting to City Avenue (US-1), and then navigating the city streets. Similarly, driving to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, also in West Philadelphia, involves a similar route, resulting in comparable drive times.

Delaware County Memorial Hospital in Drexel Hill is a closer option, generally reachable within 10-20 minutes via Garrett Road and Township Line Road. However, even this seemingly short trip can be extended during rush hour. For appointments at specialist practices located in the suburbs, such as those in Media or Broomall, drive times typically range from 20-30 minutes, primarily utilizing Garrett Road and West Chester Pike (PA-3).

**Public Transit: A Network of Options**

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides public transit options, offering a viable alternative to driving. The SEPTA Regional Rail’s Media/Elwyn Line serves Lansdowne, with a station conveniently located in the borough. This line provides direct access to Center City Philadelphia, including hospitals like HUP and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. The train ride to Center City takes approximately 20-30 minutes, offering a relatively stress-free commute.

SEPTA also operates several bus routes that serve 19050. The 102 trolley line, running along Baltimore Avenue, provides access to various destinations, including the 69th Street Transportation Center, a major hub connecting to other SEPTA lines. The 113 bus route travels along Lansdowne Avenue, offering connections to other parts of Delaware County. While bus travel is generally more affordable than driving or ride-sharing, it often involves longer travel times and potential delays due to traffic.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities. SEPTA has made significant efforts to improve accessibility across its network. Regional Rail stations, including Lansdowne, are equipped with elevators and ramps. Many bus routes utilize accessible buses. However, it's essential to verify accessibility features for specific routes and stations before traveling.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, eliminating the need to own a car or rely on public transit schedules. Ride-sharing is particularly useful for individuals with limited mobility or those who prefer door-to-door service. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with mobility challenges. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained drivers, ensuring safe and comfortable transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Philadelphia area, including Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare. These services often require prior arrangements and may be covered by insurance or Medicaid, making them a valuable resource for individuals who qualify.

**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for 19050 reflects a mixed bag of strengths and weaknesses. The proximity to Philadelphia and its extensive medical resources is a significant advantage. The availability of SEPTA Regional Rail offers a convenient and reliable transportation option to Center City hospitals.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles can lead to traffic-related delays, particularly during peak hours. Public transit, while accessible, may involve longer travel times and potential transfers. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide valuable alternatives, but their cost and availability should be carefully considered.

The score is influenced by the following factors: drive times to major hospitals and specialist practices; the frequency and reliability of public transit; the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport; and the accessibility of transportation options for individuals with disabilities.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents**

For individuals considering moving to Lansdowne, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Those who rely on frequent medical appointments should factor in the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport. Individuals with mobility limitations should prioritize homes near accessible SEPTA stations or bus routes.

Before making a move, prospective residents should:

* **Map out potential healthcare providers:** Identify the hospitals, specialists, and pharmacies they anticipate using.
* **Simulate commute times:** Use online tools like Google Maps to estimate drive times during peak hours.
* **Explore SEPTA options:** Research the frequency and accessibility of relevant bus and train routes.
* **Investigate ride-sharing costs:** Obtain estimates for typical ride-sharing fares to medical appointments.
* **Research medical transport providers:** Determine if they are eligible for coverage and understand the application process.

By carefully evaluating these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being in 19050. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a starting point for a more detailed personal assessment. The score, in essence, is a reflection of the balance between the benefits of living in a vibrant community and the practicalities of navigating the transportation landscape to access essential healthcare services.