19115, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19115, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.76 percent of residents in 19115 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holy Redeemer Hospital And Medical Center with a distance of 2.26 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 19115

The 19115 ZIP code, encompassing the Fox Chase neighborhood of Philadelphia, presents a unique tapestry of healthcare access woven with threads of suburban tranquility and the realities of urban infrastructure. Assessing the overall health score necessitates a deep dive into the available transportation options, the proximity and quality of healthcare facilities, and the potential barriers that residents may face when seeking medical attention. This analysis considers the impact of transportation on healthcare access, a critical element for anyone considering moving to Philadelphia.

The cornerstone of any health score is the ability to reach healthcare providers. In 19115, this often translates to navigating the roadways. Driving is a primary mode of transportation, and residents can readily access major thoroughfares. The Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1), a bustling artery, offers relatively quick access to hospitals and specialty clinics, though peak-hour traffic can significantly extend travel times. The Woodhaven Road (PA-63) provides another crucial link, connecting residents to facilities in both Philadelphia and neighboring Bucks County.

Drive times vary depending on the destination and time of day. A trip to Jefferson Torresdale Hospital, a prominent healthcare provider, can take approximately 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours via the Boulevard. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double, highlighting the impact of transportation on healthcare access. Similarly, reaching the Einstein Medical Center Northeast, another major medical center, involves navigating the Boulevard and can take upwards of 20 minutes in heavy traffic.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though its effectiveness varies. SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) provides bus service throughout the area. The Route 28 bus, for instance, runs along the Boulevard, offering a direct connection to several healthcare facilities. The Route 24 bus provides access to the Frankford Transportation Center, a hub connecting to the Market-Frankford Line (the “El”), which can then transport individuals to hospitals further into the city.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. SEPTA strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps and designated seating. However, the reliability of elevators and escalators at certain stations, particularly those on the Market-Frankford Line, can pose challenges. The availability of accessible routes and the overall ease of navigating public transit are vital factors in determining the health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times and offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. The cost, however, can be a barrier, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. The presence of these services, however, certainly contributes to the overall health score by increasing access to healthcare.

Medical transport services, specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, provide a vital lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare offer transportation to medical appointments, often partnering with insurance providers. These services are especially critical for elderly residents or those with mobility limitations, significantly impacting their ability to access healthcare.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in the overall health score. 19115 benefits from the presence of several hospitals and medical centers within a reasonable distance. Jefferson Torresdale Hospital, as previously mentioned, offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, specialized treatments, and outpatient clinics. Einstein Medical Center Northeast provides another comprehensive option, offering a similar spectrum of medical services.

Beyond hospitals, the area boasts a network of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers. These facilities are essential for preventative care, routine check-ups, and the management of chronic conditions. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance contributes to the overall health score by ensuring that residents can access timely and appropriate medical care.

The quality of healthcare facilities is another critical consideration. Evaluating the hospitals and clinics in the area involves assessing factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the availability of specialized services, and the quality of medical staff. Online resources, such as hospital ratings websites, can provide valuable insights into the performance of healthcare providers.

The socio-economic factors of the 19115 ZIP code also play a role in the overall health score. Income levels, access to health insurance, and the prevalence of chronic diseases can all influence healthcare access and outcomes. Addressing these social determinants of health is crucial for improving the overall health score of the community.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 19115 is therefore a complex calculation. While the area benefits from the presence of hospitals, the accessibility of those hospitals and other healthcare facilities hinges significantly on transportation. Driving is generally convenient, but traffic congestion can be a significant impediment. Public transit offers an alternative, but its effectiveness is limited by route availability, ADA accessibility, and travel times. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide valuable options, but cost and availability can be barriers.

Considering all these factors, the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 19115 can be considered moderately good. The proximity of healthcare facilities is a major advantage, but the reliance on transportation, and the potential for transportation barriers, diminishes the score somewhat. Improving public transit, expanding access to ride-sharing and medical transport, and addressing socio-economic factors are all critical for enhancing the overall health score and ensuring that all residents of 19115 can readily access the healthcare they need. This is particularly important for anyone considering moving to Philadelphia, as transportation is a fundamental component of healthcare access.