19074, Norwood, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19074, Norwood, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.73 percent of residents in 19074 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Catholic Medical Center- Mercy Fitzgerald with a distance of 2.94 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Norwood, PA (ZIP Code 19074)

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Norwood, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19074), focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. A key determinant of health outcomes is the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This analysis considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, to evaluate the practicalities of accessing healthcare within and surrounding Norwood. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Norwood or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The overall health score is influenced by the efficiency and availability of transportation options to reach various healthcare providers, including hospitals, specialist offices, urgent care centers, and pharmacies. The analysis considers travel times, costs, accessibility features, and the overall reliability of each transportation method. A high score indicates easy and convenient access, while a lower score suggests potential barriers to care.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape**

For many Norwood residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The strategic location of Norwood, nestled near major roadways, offers both advantages and disadvantages. Key arteries like the **Interstate 95 (I-95)** and the **US Route 13 (Chester Pike)** are vital for reaching larger medical centers. However, these highways are notorious for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Accessing hospitals such as the **Crozer-Chester Medical Center** in Upland requires navigating the often-busy Chester Pike. The drive, typically under 15 minutes during off-peak times, can easily stretch to 30 minutes or more during rush hour. Similarly, reaching **Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital** in Darby involves navigating local roads, with potential delays depending on traffic flow.

Smaller medical practices and specialist offices are often located along **Chester Pike** and **MacDade Boulevard**, offering more convenient access for some residents. However, the availability of specialized care within Norwood itself is limited, often necessitating travel to neighboring towns. The condition of local roads, including **Ridley Avenue** and **Clifton Avenue**, can also impact travel times, particularly during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag**

Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides public transportation options for Norwood residents, but the system's effectiveness for healthcare access is variable. The **Route 113 bus** is a primary mode of public transportation in Norwood, connecting residents to nearby towns and transportation hubs. However, bus routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving, especially when factoring in transfers.

The **Route 113** bus, while offering a connection to the **Suburban Square** and the **Norwood Train Station**, does not directly service many of the major hospitals. Passengers may need to transfer to other bus routes or utilize ride-sharing services to complete their journey. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive aspect, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access public transportation.

The **Norwood Train Station**, on the Media/Elwyn Regional Rail Line, offers a faster alternative for reaching Center City Philadelphia, where numerous hospitals and specialist practices are located. However, this option involves walking to the station, potential delays, and the cost of a train ticket. The train station's proximity to healthcare facilities in Philadelphia is a significant advantage for residents seeking specialized care.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an on-demand transportation option, particularly useful for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. These services can provide door-to-door transportation to healthcare appointments, bypassing the complexities of public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments, and availability can be limited during peak hours or in certain areas.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as **MedRide** and **CareRide**, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with their transportation needs. While offering a valuable service, medical transport can be costly and may require advance booking.

**Pharmacies: A Vital Component**

Access to pharmacies is crucial for managing medications and maintaining overall health. Norwood boasts several pharmacies, including national chains and local options. The proximity of these pharmacies to residential areas offers convenient access to prescriptions and other healthcare essentials. However, the availability of specialized pharmacy services, such as compounding or medication counseling, may necessitate travel to pharmacies in neighboring towns.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations for Moving to Norwood**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Norwood, PA (19074) is moderate. While the area benefits from its proximity to major roadways and public transportation options, challenges exist. Traffic congestion on I-95 and Chester Pike can significantly impact drive times. Public transit, while available, may require transfers and involve longer travel times. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenient alternatives, but at a cost.

For those considering moving to Norwood, it's essential to carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Individuals who rely on frequent specialist appointments or require specialized medical care should factor in potential travel times and costs. Residents with mobility limitations should consider the availability of ADA-accessible transportation options.

The availability of pharmacies within Norwood is a positive aspect, but residents may need to travel to neighboring towns for specialized pharmacy services. Understanding these factors is crucial for making an informed decision about moving to Norwood and ensuring adequate healthcare access.

**Recommendations**

* **Plan Ahead:** When scheduling healthcare appointments, factor in potential travel times, especially during peak hours.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Research and compare the costs and convenience of driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Providers:** When choosing a residence, consider the proximity to hospitals, specialist offices, and pharmacies.
* **Utilize Technology:** Leverage online tools and apps to plan routes, track traffic conditions, and book transportation services.
* **Advocate for Improved Transportation:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transportation and reducing traffic congestion in the area.

By carefully considering these factors, residents of Norwood can navigate the healthcare landscape effectively and maintain a high quality of life. The overall health score, while moderate, can be improved through proactive planning and utilization of available resources.