19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19135, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.72 percent of residents in 19135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Christopher's Hospital For Children with a distance of 2.69 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19135

Navigating the intricate web of transportation to access healthcare is a critical component of overall well-being. For residents of Philadelphia's 19135 ZIP code, a comprehensive assessment of transportation options reveals a complex landscape, impacting healthcare access and ultimately, the community's health score. This analysis delves into the realities of commuting, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation methods, painting a picture of both challenges and opportunities for those seeking medical care.

The 19135 ZIP code, encompassing portions of the Frankford and Oxford Circle neighborhoods, presents a unique set of circumstances. Its location, nestled in the northeastern part of Philadelphia, influences the accessibility of healthcare facilities. The overall health score here is directly affected by the efficiency and availability of transportation options. Considering moving to Philadelphia? Understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial.

Driving, while often perceived as the most direct route, presents its own set of hurdles. Major arteries like Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1) and I-95 are frequently congested, particularly during peak hours. A trip to a hospital located in Center City, for example, could easily take 30-45 minutes, or longer, depending on traffic conditions. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, especially for those with chronic conditions or in urgent need of medical attention. Smaller roads like Frankford Avenue and Oxford Avenue, while offering alternative routes, are also subject to traffic, further complicating commutes.

Public transportation, a vital lifeline for many residents, provides a different perspective. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) offers a network of bus routes and the Market-Frankford Line, commonly known as the "El," serving the 19135 area. The Market-Frankford Line, with stations like Arrott Transportation Center and Frankford Transportation Center, offers a relatively rapid transit option to Center City and other areas with healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service, especially during off-peak hours, and the potential for overcrowding can pose challenges.

Bus routes, such as the 25, 56, and 66, provide more localized access, connecting residents to hospitals, clinics, and medical offices within the surrounding neighborhoods. These routes, however, are often subject to delays due to traffic and road conditions. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles on both bus and rail lines is a critical factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can also access healthcare services. SEPTA is committed to providing accessible services, but the availability of elevators and ramps at all stations and the operational efficiency of accessible vehicles remain crucial considerations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as another option, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The availability of ride-sharing vehicles in the 19135 area is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can further increase costs, making them less accessible for those with lower incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide a specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often covered by Medicaid or other insurance plans, making them a more affordable option for those who qualify. However, the availability of these services and the booking process can sometimes be cumbersome, requiring advance planning and coordination.

The proximity of healthcare facilities is another crucial factor. The 19135 area is served by several hospitals and clinics, including Frankford Hospital and Aria Health, providing convenient access to emergency care and other medical services. However, specialized care, such as certain types of surgeries or consultations with specialists, may require travel to hospitals located in other parts of the city, increasing commute times and reliance on various transportation options.

The overall health score in 19135 is a composite of these factors. While public transit offers a viable option, the reliance on buses, the potential for delays, and the need for ADA accessibility considerations impact the ease of access. Driving, although offering more flexibility, is constrained by traffic congestion. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide alternatives, but their cost and availability present challenges.

The integration of these transportation options is key to improving healthcare access. SEPTA's continued investment in its infrastructure, including upgrades to stations and bus routes, can enhance the efficiency and reliability of public transit. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could increase affordability. Expanding the availability of medical transportation services and streamlining the booking process would further improve accessibility for those with specific needs.

Furthermore, the development of healthcare facilities within the 19135 area, or the establishment of satellite clinics, could reduce the need for long commutes. Telemedicine, with its ability to provide remote consultations and monitoring, offers another avenue to improve healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

In conclusion, the overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 19135 is influenced by a complex interplay of transportation factors. While the area benefits from a network of public transit and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, the challenges of traffic congestion, the cost of alternative transportation, and the need for accessible services require careful consideration. Addressing these challenges through infrastructure improvements, strategic partnerships, and innovative healthcare delivery models is crucial to improving healthcare access and ultimately, the overall health and well-being of the residents of 19135. The future of healthcare access in this Philadelphia ZIP code hinges on a collaborative approach, ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the care they need.