19112, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19112, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 19112 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pennsylvania Hospital with a distance of 3.83 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 19112

The 19112 ZIP code, nestled in Northeast Philadelphia, presents a complex tapestry of healthcare access woven with threads of transportation. Understanding this interplay is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Philadelphia, as it directly impacts their overall health score. This assessment delves into the intricacies of commuting to healthcare facilities, analyzing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services.

The foundation of healthcare access in 19112 rests on its proximity to a network of hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical practices. However, reaching these facilities is not always straightforward. The primary arteries of transportation, including the Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1), I-95, and the Northeast Extension of the Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-476), dictate the flow of vehicles. The ease or difficulty of navigating these routes significantly impacts the time and stress associated with healthcare appointments.

For those reliant on personal vehicles, drive times vary depending on the destination and the time of day. Rush hour on Roosevelt Boulevard and I-95 can transform a short trip into a protracted ordeal. The Northeast Extension, while offering a faster route for some, incurs tolls, adding another layer of complexity. Understanding these variables is paramount when evaluating the overall health score, as prolonged travel times can deter individuals from seeking timely medical attention.

Public transportation provides an alternative, albeit with its own set of considerations. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) offers bus routes that traverse the 19112 ZIP code. The 20, 28, 58, 67, and 84 bus routes, among others, serve various points within the area, connecting residents to hospitals, clinics, and regional rail lines. However, bus travel can be time-consuming, particularly during peak hours, and requires careful planning to ensure timely arrival at appointments.

SEPTA’s Regional Rail also plays a role in healthcare access, offering faster connections to Center City and other areas with a concentration of medical facilities. The Fox Chase Line, with stops near the 19112 ZIP code, provides a direct link to Jefferson Health’s Frankford Hospital. However, regional rail access may require a transfer from a bus or a walk, adding another layer of complexity for those with mobility limitations.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor in evaluating public transportation options. SEPTA has made significant strides in improving accessibility, with features like ramps, elevators, and audio-visual announcements on many buses and trains. However, the availability of these features can vary depending on the route and the specific vehicle, necessitating careful planning and consideration for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing individuals to schedule rides to and from medical appointments with relative ease. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, potentially becoming a barrier for those with limited financial resources. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower demand, potentially impacting the reliability of this transportation option.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, providing specialized transportation for appointments, treatments, and other healthcare-related activities. Companies like MedRide and Care Ride offer non-emergency medical transportation, often with trained drivers and vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. These services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or use public transportation due to physical limitations. However, these services typically require prior scheduling and may involve associated costs, which can impact the overall health score.

The availability of these various transportation options, coupled with their respective advantages and disadvantages, shapes the overall health score for residents of 19112. The ideal scenario involves a blend of accessible and affordable options, ensuring that individuals can reach healthcare facilities promptly and without undue stress. However, the reality is often more nuanced, with challenges related to traffic congestion, public transportation schedules, ride-sharing costs, and the availability of specialized medical transportation services.

When considering moving to Philadelphia and specifically to the 19112 ZIP code, potential residents should carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs and preferences. Individuals who rely on public transportation should familiarize themselves with SEPTA routes and schedules, paying particular attention to ADA accessibility features. Those who prefer to drive should factor in traffic patterns and parking availability at their preferred healthcare facilities. Understanding these factors is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ensuring a high overall health score.

The quality of healthcare access is not solely determined by the availability of transportation options. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of specialists, and the quality of care provided also play crucial roles. However, transportation remains a fundamental component, acting as the bridge that connects residents to the healthcare they need. The overall health score in 19112 reflects the complex interplay of these factors, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive approach to healthcare access.

Furthermore, the overall health score in 19112 is not static. It is subject to change based on infrastructure improvements, changes in public transportation routes, the emergence of new ride-sharing services, and the evolution of medical transportation options. Therefore, residents and potential residents should remain informed about these developments, adapting their transportation strategies as needed to ensure continued access to healthcare.

In conclusion, the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 19112 is a multifaceted assessment. It requires a thorough understanding of drive times on highways and roads like the Roosevelt Boulevard and I-95, public transit routes such as the 20, 28, 58, 67, and 84, along with the ADA features, ride-share options, and medical transportation brands. The ability to navigate this intricate network of transportation options directly impacts the health and well-being of the residents, making it a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Philadelphia and settling in this vibrant Northeast Philadelphia community.