19137, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19137, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.10 percent of residents in 19137 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Christopher's Hospital For Children with a distance of 2.83 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19137

Considering a move to Philadelphia, specifically the 19137 ZIP code? This assessment offers a comprehensive ‘Overall Health Score’ analyzing the accessibility of healthcare within and around the area. The score considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, along with ride-sharing and medical transport options. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone prioritizing convenient healthcare access.

The 19137 ZIP code, encompassing the neighborhoods of Frankford and Northwood, presents a mixed bag regarding healthcare accessibility. While the area boasts several local clinics and practices, the availability of specialized care and major hospital facilities significantly impacts the overall health score. This write-up will delve into the realities of navigating the transportation landscape to access necessary medical services.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many seeking healthcare. Residents of 19137 have relatively easy access to major roadways. Traveling south on Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1) provides direct access to several hospitals, including Jefferson Frankford Hospital. Expect drive times of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Heading west, the connection to I-95 offers access to hospitals further south, like the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, though this journey can take 30-45 minutes, especially during peak hours. The Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) provides another route, but its notorious congestion can drastically increase travel times.

Conversely, the accessibility to healthcare facilities north of 19137 is more limited. While local clinics exist, accessing specialized care often necessitates travel south, adding to the overall commute time. The condition of local roads, including Frankford Avenue and Oxford Avenue, can also impact travel times, with potholes and traffic congestion frequently causing delays.

**Public Transit Navigation:**

Philadelphia's public transportation system, SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), offers several options for navigating to healthcare facilities. The Market-Frankford Line (the "El") provides a direct route to Center City, where numerous hospitals and medical specialists are located. Stations like Frankford Transportation Center serve as crucial hubs.

The El, while generally reliable, can experience delays due to mechanical issues or signal problems. Furthermore, accessibility can be a concern. While SEPTA is committed to ADA compliance, not all stations, particularly older ones, are fully accessible. Individuals with mobility limitations should confirm accessibility features before planning their journey.

Bus routes are another vital component of the public transit network. Several bus lines, including the 20, 25, and 56, serve the 19137 area, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities and transfer points. Bus travel, however, can be significantly impacted by traffic, extending travel times considerably.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative to driving or public transit. These services are readily available in 19137, providing door-to-door transportation to healthcare appointments. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transport, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be invaluable for individuals who cannot utilize public transit or drive themselves. However, booking in advance is typically required, and costs can vary depending on the distance and level of care needed.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within 19137 itself is a significant factor. Several primary care physicians, dental practices, and urgent care clinics are located within the ZIP code, providing convenient access to basic medical services. However, accessing specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or specialized surgery, often necessitates travel to larger hospitals located outside the immediate area.

The quality of healthcare providers and the availability of appointments also influence the overall health score. Researching local doctors, checking patient reviews, and understanding insurance coverage are crucial steps in ensuring access to quality care. Furthermore, the availability of specialists and the waiting times for appointments can vary significantly, impacting the overall healthcare experience.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options and healthcare availability, the ‘Overall Health Score’ for accessing healthcare in 19137 presents a mixed picture. While the area benefits from access to major roadways and public transit, the reliance on travel to access specialized care and the potential for transportation delays impact the score.

The proximity to the Market-Frankford Line and the availability of ride-sharing services partially mitigate these challenges. The presence of local clinics and practices provides convenient access to basic medical services. However, the need to travel to other parts of the city for specialized care and the potential for transportation-related delays, particularly during peak hours, lowers the overall score.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

For individuals considering a move to 19137, carefully evaluating their healthcare needs is crucial. If access to specialized care is a priority, understanding the commute times and transportation options to relevant hospitals is essential. Utilizing public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options can help mitigate the challenges of accessing healthcare.

Furthermore, researching local healthcare providers, confirming insurance coverage, and understanding appointment availability are vital steps in ensuring access to quality care. Considering these factors will help prospective residents make an informed decision about whether 19137 aligns with their healthcare needs and priorities. This analysis is a critical component for anyone moving to Philadelphia.