19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19131, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.54 percent of residents in 19131 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Presbyterian Medical Center with a distance of 2.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 19131

Philadelphia's 19131 ZIP code, nestled in the heart of the city, presents a complex tapestry of challenges and opportunities when considering overall health. This analysis delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the nuances of transportation. Understanding the ease or difficulty of getting to medical appointments, pharmacies, and urgent care facilities is paramount for residents. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, taking into account various transportation modalities, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This information is particularly valuable for individuals considering moving to Philadelphia, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The score is determined by evaluating the time, cost, and convenience associated with accessing healthcare facilities from various points within 19131. The presence of ADA-accessible public transit options and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are also factored in. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on the health and well-being of the community.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, commuting to healthcare in 19131 offers a mixed bag. The proximity to major thoroughfares like Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1) and I-95 provides relatively quick access to hospitals and medical centers located outside the immediate area. However, the congestion on these routes, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times.

Traveling south on Roosevelt Boulevard offers access to hospitals in Northeast Philadelphia, such as Jefferson Torresdale Hospital, with drive times ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading west on Roosevelt Boulevard, one can reach Chestnut Hill Hospital in approximately 20 to 40 minutes. Navigating I-95 south provides access to hospitals in Center City, such as Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, with travel times typically between 20 to 45 minutes, again influenced by traffic conditions.

Within the 19131 ZIP code itself, local roads like Rising Sun Avenue and Adams Avenue can be challenging to navigate due to heavy traffic and limited parking near some medical facilities. Finding parking near hospitals can be another hurdle, often requiring navigating parking garages and paying hefty fees. The overall driving experience, therefore, presents a moderate level of convenience, balanced by the potential for delays and expenses.

**Public Transit Pathways: Navigating the SEPTA System**

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides a crucial lifeline for healthcare access in 19131. Several bus routes serve the area, offering connections to major hospitals and medical centers. The 28, 56, 70, and 75 bus routes are particularly relevant, traversing the 19131 ZIP code and providing links to hospitals and medical facilities.

The 28 bus, for example, runs along Roosevelt Boulevard, connecting to hospitals in Northeast Philadelphia and providing a direct route to the Frankford Transportation Center, where riders can connect to the Market-Frankford Line (the "Blue Line"). The 56 bus travels along Rising Sun Avenue, offering access to local medical offices and connecting to the Broad Street Line (the "Orange Line") at Olney Transportation Center. The 70 bus provides access to hospitals in the Olney area. The 75 bus connects to the Erie Station of the Market-Frankford Line.

SEPTA's commitment to ADA accessibility is a significant advantage. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, and the Market-Frankford and Broad Street Lines have accessible stations. However, the frequency of bus service, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Travel times on public transit are often longer than driving, and transfers can add to the overall journey.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding Access**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option for healthcare access in 19131. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for parking and potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as Liberty Medical Transport and MedRide, cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. These services offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers. While these services provide a valuable resource, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

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

Considering the various transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 19131 is moderate. While the area benefits from the presence of SEPTA, major highways, and ride-sharing services, challenges exist in terms of traffic congestion, the frequency of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport.

For individuals considering moving to Philadelphia, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions or limited mobility, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. Proximity to public transit routes, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transport should be factored into the decision-making process.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, the ability to access healthcare in 19131 is dependent on a combination of transportation factors. The availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the option of driving provide residents with a range of choices. However, the challenges of traffic, the cost of transportation, and the frequency of public transit service need to be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Philadelphia, this analysis highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. By carefully evaluating these factors, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have the means to access the medical care they require. The overall health of the community is intrinsically linked to the ease with which residents can access healthcare services, making transportation a critical determinant of well-being.