19144, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19144, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.30 percent of residents in 19144 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Albert Einstein Medical Center with a distance of 1.57 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 19144

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report delves into the transportation landscape of Philadelphia's 19144 ZIP code, analyzing the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in this area. For those considering **moving to Philadelphia**, understanding these factors is crucial for informed decision-making.

The 19144 ZIP code, encompassing the vibrant neighborhoods of Point Breeze, Grays Ferry, and portions of Graduate Hospital, presents a unique tapestry of transportation options. Its proximity to Center City and major thoroughfares offers both advantages and challenges when it comes to **healthcare access**. The score will reflect the degree of convenience, affordability, and inclusivity of these options, ultimately impacting the overall well-being of the residents.

**Driving the Healthcare Journey:**

For those who prefer the autonomy of driving, the primary arteries for navigating 19144 are the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76), the South Philadelphia section of I-95, and the smaller, but equally important, roadways like Broad Street, Grays Ferry Avenue, and Passyunk Avenue. These routes, while offering direct access to hospitals and clinics, are often subject to the infamous Philadelphia traffic. Peak hours can transform a short drive into a frustrating, time-consuming ordeal, potentially delaying critical medical attention.

Drive times to major healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and time of day. Hospitals like Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, located just north of the ZIP code, can be reached in approximately 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours via I-76 or South Street. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily double. Similarly, reaching Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Center City, though accessible via I-76 and local roads, can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic congestion.

Parking availability is another significant factor. While some hospitals offer parking garages, costs can be substantial. Street parking, although available in some areas, is often limited and requires careful attention to parking regulations. This adds another layer of complexity and potential stress to the healthcare journey.

**Public Transit: A Network of Opportunities:**

Philadelphia's public transit system, operated by SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority), provides a crucial alternative to driving. The Broad Street Line subway, with stations along the eastern edge of 19144, offers a rapid and reliable connection to Center City hospitals. Stations like Ellsworth-Federal and Tasker-Morris are within easy walking distance for many residents. The subway is generally ADA-accessible, with elevators and ramps available at most stations, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

Bus routes are also abundant, crisscrossing the 19144 area and connecting residents to various healthcare facilities. The 7, 17, 64, and 79 bus routes are particularly relevant, providing access to hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. However, bus travel times can be significantly longer than subway travel, especially during peak hours when traffic congestion can cause delays.

SEPTA's accessibility features, including accessible buses and the Broad Street Line, are vital for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access healthcare. However, the frequency of service, particularly on bus routes, can be a limiting factor for some residents, especially those with mobility limitations or who need to reach appointments at specific times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another layer of **transportation** options. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering convenience and flexibility, particularly for those who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. Ride-sharing can be a cost-effective alternative to driving, especially when considering parking fees and gas costs.

However, ride-sharing fares can fluctuate significantly based on demand, potentially making them less affordable during peak hours or when traveling to distant healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the specific location within 19144.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services are particularly crucial for those with mobility limitations or who need assistance with medical equipment. While ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, NEMT services require pre-booking and may have limited availability.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 19144 is moderately positive. The availability of diverse **transportation** options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides residents with choices. However, several factors impact the overall score.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly increase drive times, potentially delaying access to medical care. Parking costs and availability also pose challenges for those who choose to drive. While SEPTA offers a robust public transit network, travel times can be longer than driving, and the frequency of service on some bus routes may be a limiting factor.

Ride-sharing services provide a convenient alternative, but their cost and availability can fluctuate. Medical transport services cater to specific needs, but their availability may be limited.

For those considering **moving to Philadelphia** and specifically to 19144, it is essential to carefully consider their individual **healthcare access** needs. Factors such as mobility limitations, appointment schedules, and budget constraints should inform the choice of **transportation** options.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several recommendations can be made. Investing in public transit infrastructure, including increasing the frequency of bus service and expanding the accessibility features of the SEPTA system, would benefit all residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs and exploring partnerships with medical transport providers could also enhance access to healthcare.

Encouraging the development of more healthcare facilities within the 19144 area would reduce travel times and improve convenience. Furthermore, providing clear and accessible information about all available **transportation** options, including their costs, travel times, and accessibility features, would empower residents to make informed choices.

By addressing these issues, the community can ensure that all residents of 19144 have equitable and efficient access to the healthcare they need, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community. This analysis is a snapshot of the current situation, and ongoing monitoring and adaptation are crucial to maintaining and improving the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in this dynamic Philadelphia neighborhood.