19057, Levittown, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19057, Levittown, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.30 percent of residents in 19057 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lower Bucks Hospital with a distance of 2.62 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Levittown, PA (ZIP Code 19057)

The overall health of a community is intricately woven with its capacity to access essential services, most critically, healthcare. In Levittown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19057), a sprawling suburban community, the ability to reach doctors, hospitals, and specialists directly impacts the well-being of its residents. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” by examining the transportation landscape, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. This is crucial for anyone considering moving to Levittown, as it directly affects quality of life.

The "Overall Health Score" considers several factors. These include drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. Each element contributes to the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical care. A high score indicates readily available and efficient access, while a low score signals potential barriers that could negatively impact health outcomes.

**Driving the Healthcare Journey**

For many Levittown residents, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. The primary artery for travel is the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276)**, offering relatively quick access to hospitals in the Philadelphia area, such as the **Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania** and **Thomas Jefferson University Hospital**. However, the Turnpike tolls and potential traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can add to both the financial burden and the stress of a medical appointment.

Local roads like **Bristol Pike (US-13)** and **New Falls Road** are also crucial. These roads connect Levittown to local medical facilities, including **Lower Bucks Hospital** and various urgent care centers. Drive times vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. During rush hour, travel on Bristol Pike can be slow, potentially delaying access to critical care. A drive to Lower Bucks Hospital, a critical healthcare provider for the area, can range from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Furthermore, the distance to specialized medical centers, such as those offering advanced cardiology or oncology services, can be considerable. Residents might need to travel to Philadelphia or other surrounding areas, increasing drive times and potentially adding to the strain on individuals already dealing with health concerns. The overall score is moderately affected by the reliance on personal vehicles, as traffic, tolls, and distance present challenges.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

Public transportation in Levittown, primarily provided by the **Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)**, offers an alternative to driving. The **Trenton Line Regional Rail** provides service to Philadelphia, with stops at various stations in and around Levittown. This can be a viable option for accessing hospitals and medical specialists in the city. However, the distance from the train stations to the actual healthcare facilities can require additional transportation, such as a bus or ride-sharing service.

SEPTA bus routes, such as **Route 130** and **Route 133**, serve the Levittown area, connecting residents to local medical offices and hospitals. These routes are generally accessible for individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards. However, the frequency of these bus routes can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends, potentially hindering access to timely medical care. This significantly impacts the overall health score, as the reliance on public transit is not always reliable or convenient.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, like **Uber** and **Lyft**, have become increasingly popular in Levittown. They offer a convenient option for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in less densely populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transportation services are available for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid-approved transportation providers** offer non-emergency medical transport. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, providing door-to-door assistance. However, availability and scheduling can be constraints, potentially requiring advance planning.

**The Overall Health Score: A Balanced Assessment**

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in Levittown, PA (ZIP Code 19057) is moderately positive. While the reliance on personal vehicles can present challenges due to traffic and distance, the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport services provides alternative options.

The ease of access to local hospitals and urgent care centers is a significant advantage. However, the distance to specialized medical facilities and the limitations of public transit contribute to a lower score. The score is further impacted by the cost of transportation, which can be a significant burden for those with chronic health conditions or limited financial resources.

For those considering moving to Levittown, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully evaluating their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely and convenient access to medical care, directly impacting overall health and well-being. The availability of healthcare is a crucial factor when choosing a place to live, and Levittown offers a mixed bag of options, necessitating careful consideration.