19061, Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19061, Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.27 percent of residents in 19061 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crozer Chester Medical Center with a distance of 4.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in 19061 (Marcus Hook, PA)

The overall health score for residents of Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 19061) concerning healthcare access hinges significantly on transportation infrastructure and its efficacy. This assessment considers the practicalities of navigating the region to reach essential medical services, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport. For those considering moving to Marcus Hook, understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making regarding their well-being.

The geographical layout of Marcus Hook, situated in Delaware County, presents both advantages and challenges. Proximity to major roadways offers relatively straightforward access to healthcare facilities, but reliance on a single mode of transportation, particularly the personal vehicle, can create vulnerabilities. The overall health score is a reflection of the availability, reliability, and affordability of these transportation options.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries facilitating healthcare access in and around 19061 are Interstate 95 (I-95), the Commodore Barry Bridge, and U.S. Route 13. Driving to hospitals and specialist offices is generally the most common approach. However, the drive times fluctuate dramatically depending on the time of day, particularly during peak commuting hours.

For instance, driving to Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland, a major healthcare provider, typically takes between 10-20 minutes via I-95 and U.S. Route 13 under normal traffic conditions. However, during morning and evening rush hours, this commute can easily double, impacting the timeliness of appointments and potentially exacerbating health concerns.

Another critical destination is the Nemours Children's Health, located in Wilmington, Delaware. This drive, usually taking approximately 20-30 minutes via I-95, is subject to the same traffic-related delays. The Commodore Barry Bridge, connecting Marcus Hook to New Jersey, offers an alternative route, but it too can experience congestion, particularly during weekend travel.

The drive to smaller clinics and specialist offices scattered throughout Delaware County and neighboring areas also requires consideration. While these facilities may be closer geographically, their accessibility relies on the efficiency of local roads and the availability of parking.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option:**

Public transportation in 19061, primarily provided by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), offers a viable, albeit limited, alternative to driving. The primary service is the Route 114 bus, which connects Marcus Hook to nearby towns and provides access to regional rail lines.

The Route 114 bus, while offering a degree of accessibility, is not without its drawbacks. Frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be limited, potentially creating significant waiting times. Furthermore, the route's coverage is not comprehensive, and residents may need to walk a considerable distance to reach a bus stop.

For individuals with mobility impairments, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. SEPTA strives to provide accessible services, including buses equipped with ramps or lifts and accessible stations. However, the practical implementation of these features can vary, and individuals with disabilities may encounter challenges navigating the system.

The regional rail lines, accessible via the Route 114 bus or a short drive, provide access to a wider range of healthcare facilities in Philadelphia and surrounding areas. However, the reliance on transfers and potential delays can complicate the journey, particularly for those with urgent medical needs.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an increasingly popular transportation option in 19061. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering convenience and flexibility compared to public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing services, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with limited demand, is not guaranteed.

Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The fluctuating prices, influenced by demand and distance, can create a financial burden for individuals with limited incomes.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services provide specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

The availability of medical transport services in 19061 is generally good, with several providers operating in the area. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary. Understanding the terms of coverage and the out-of-pocket expenses is crucial for accessing medical transport.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Perspective:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 19061 is a composite of these factors. While the proximity to major roadways and healthcare facilities offers advantages, the reliance on personal vehicles, traffic congestion, and the limitations of public transit create challenges.

For those considering moving to Marcus Hook, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides supplementary options, but their cost and availability must be considered. The accessibility of healthcare also depends on the individual's mobility, financial resources, and the specific medical needs.

The overall health score for 19061 can be improved by investing in public transit infrastructure, improving traffic flow on major roadways, and promoting the availability of affordable ride-sharing and medical transport services. This would enhance the quality of life for residents and facilitate timely access to essential healthcare services.