19086, Wallingford, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19086, Wallingford, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.55 percent of residents in 19086 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 Crozer Chester Medical Center with a distance of 2.32 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19086 (Wallingford, PA)

ZIP Code 19086, encompassing the charming borough of Wallingford, Pennsylvania, presents a unique tapestry of suburban tranquility interwoven with the necessities of modern life, including access to healthcare. This assessment delves into the intricate relationship between transportation options and healthcare access, providing an “Overall Health Score” based on the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. This information is particularly valuable for individuals considering moving to Wallingford, offering a realistic perspective on their ability to access vital medical services.

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its ability to provide timely and convenient healthcare. In Wallingford, the primary factor influencing this access is transportation. The ability to reach doctors, hospitals, and specialists without undue stress or delay significantly impacts the overall well-being of residents. Our analysis considers various transportation modes, evaluating their accessibility, efficiency, and affordability.

**Drive Time Dynamics**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the preferred mode of transportation. The geographical layout of Wallingford dictates that travel to healthcare facilities often involves navigating a network of well-maintained roads and highways. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are **PA-320 (Providence Road)**, **Baltimore Pike (US-1)**, and **I-476 (the Blue Route)**. These roadways connect Wallingford to a variety of medical centers, hospitals, and specialized clinics.

Drive times, of course, fluctuate based on the time of day, with rush hour significantly impacting travel durations. During peak hours, the commute to hospitals like **Crozer-Chester Medical Center** in Upland, or **Paoli Hospital** in Paoli, can extend considerably. Conversely, off-peak travel offers more predictable and often shorter commutes. For example, a trip to **DCH Regional Medical Center** in Drexel Hill might take 15-20 minutes during non-peak hours, while the same journey could stretch to 30-45 minutes during rush hour.

**Public Transit Pathways**

For those who prefer or require public transportation, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides essential connectivity. The **Route 101 trolley** offers a direct link to the **Drexel Hill Junction** and connects to the **Market-Frankford Line** for access to Philadelphia hospitals. The **Route 109 bus** serves the area, providing access to **Chester Pike** and other major thoroughfares with connections to medical facilities.

SEPTA’s commitment to accessibility is crucial. The **Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)** mandates that all SEPTA buses and trolleys are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating. While the trolley and bus services are generally reliable, their schedules and routes may not always align perfectly with medical appointments. Careful planning and consideration of potential delays are essential for public transit users.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Options**

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has added another layer of convenience to healthcare access. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a flexible alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. Ride-sharing is particularly beneficial for individuals who may not have access to a personal vehicle or who find driving challenging. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services also play a vital role, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Companies like **MedRide** and **CareRide** offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing door-to-door service and assistance with mobility devices. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities, seniors, and those recovering from medical procedures. The availability of these services enhances the Overall Health Score by providing a safety net for those who may otherwise struggle to access healthcare.

**Healthcare Access and Community Well-being**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 19086 is significantly influenced by the interplay of these transportation options. The availability of multiple modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, provides a robust framework for residents to reach medical facilities. The efficiency of these modes, as measured by drive times and transit schedules, is a critical factor.

The proximity of medical facilities is also important. While Wallingford itself may not have a major hospital, its location provides relatively easy access to several hospitals and clinics within a reasonable driving distance. This proximity, combined with the various transportation options, contributes to a favorable Overall Health Score.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Score**

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 19086 is positive. The diverse transportation options, including the convenience of personal vehicles, the accessibility of SEPTA, and the flexibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services, provide a solid foundation for residents to reach medical facilities. While drive times can be impacted by traffic, and public transit requires careful planning, the overall accessibility of healthcare in Wallingford is commendable. For those considering moving to Wallingford, the availability of these transportation options should be viewed as a significant advantage, contributing to a healthy and thriving community.