19474, Skippack, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 19474, Skippack, Pennsylvania is 81 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

39.04 percent of residents in 19474 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Eagleville Hospital with a distance of 4.64 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19474 (Skippack, PA)

The quest for optimal well-being often hinges on a fundamental factor: convenient access to healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP Code 19474, Skippack, Pennsylvania, evaluating its impact on residents' ability to access medical services. This “Overall Health Score” considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for current and prospective residents, especially those considering moving to Skippack.

The primary artery for vehicular movement in and out of Skippack is **Route 113**, a north-south thoroughfare. Traveling south on Route 113 connects to **Route 73**, offering access to healthcare facilities in nearby areas like Worcester and Lansdale. Heading north on Route 113 leads towards **Route 63**, providing access to facilities in Green Lane and Quakertown. These routes, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting drive times to appointments.

Drive times are a critical element of healthcare access. To estimate these, we consider the location of major healthcare providers. For example, **Einstein Medical Center Montgomery** in East Norriton, approximately 10 miles south, is a significant regional hospital. A drive to Einstein, typically taking 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions via Route 113 and the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-276)**, could extend to 45 minutes or more during rush hour.

Similarly, **Abington-Jefferson Health Lansdale Hospital**, around 15 miles northeast, is accessible via Route 113 and **Sumneytown Pike**. The drive time, usually around 25-35 minutes, can fluctuate significantly. The presence of these major healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance is a positive aspect of Skippack's healthcare access profile. However, the reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of individual mobility.

Public transportation, while present, presents certain limitations. The **Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)** provides bus service in the broader region, but direct routes serving Skippack are limited. The closest significant SEPTA access point is in Lansdale, approximately a 20-minute drive. From Lansdale, several bus routes, including the **Route 92** and **Route 132**, connect to various healthcare facilities.

These SEPTA routes, while offering a cost-effective alternative to driving, involve transfers and longer travel times. The Route 92, for instance, connects to Norristown, where connections to other healthcare facilities are available. The Route 132 travels towards Willow Grove. Accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating, are available on SEPTA buses, ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, may pose a challenge for some residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, provide an alternative transportation option, especially for those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. Availability in Skippack is generally good, though surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can impact affordability. These services offer door-to-door transportation, enhancing convenience, but their reliability can vary depending on driver availability.

Specialized medical transportation services are also available for individuals with specific needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** offer non-emergency medical transportation, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with appointments. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. The availability and cost of these services are important considerations for residents with specific healthcare needs.

The overall health score for transportation and healthcare access in ZIP Code 19474 is moderate. The area benefits from proximity to several healthcare facilities, accessible via a network of highways and roads. Drive times are generally reasonable, although traffic congestion can impact travel times. The limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges for some residents. Ride-sharing services offer an alternative, but their cost and availability are factors to consider. Specialized medical transportation services provide crucial support for individuals with specific needs.

For those considering moving to Skippack, the health score suggests a need for careful planning. Assessing individual transportation needs and considering the availability of healthcare services in the surrounding area is vital. Evaluating the accessibility of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the availability of specialized medical transport is equally important. The overall picture emphasizes the importance of personal mobility and the need to plan for potential travel challenges.

The healthcare access landscape in Skippack is constantly evolving. New healthcare facilities and transportation solutions may emerge, impacting the overall health score. Staying informed about these developments is crucial for residents and prospective residents. The availability of healthcare services and the ease of transportation are integral components of a healthy and fulfilling life, making this analysis a valuable tool for understanding the healthcare access landscape in Skippack.