15534, Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15534, Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.57 percent of residents in 15534 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Bedford Memorial with a distance of 15.25 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Buffalo Mills, PA (ZIP Code 15534)

The crisp air of Buffalo Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15534), nestled amidst the rolling hills of Bedford County, offers a bucolic charm. However, for residents managing asthma, the idyllic setting presents a complex challenge: **healthcare access**. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, crucial for timely medical attention, and assigns an "Asthma Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare providers, particularly in the event of an asthma exacerbation. This analysis is vital for anyone considering **moving to Buffalo Mills** or already residing there, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The Asthma Score considers factors such as drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. The score will range from 1 (poor access) to 5 (excellent access), offering a practical guide for assessing healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Times: The Primary Route**

For most residents, the automobile is the primary mode of **transportation** for healthcare appointments. The most direct route to larger medical facilities involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. The nearest significant healthcare hub is UPMC Bedford, approximately 20 miles away.

The journey typically begins on **PA-26**, a winding state route that traverses the heart of Buffalo Mills. This road, while scenic, can experience slower speeds due to its two-lane configuration and occasional traffic. Expect a drive time of approximately 30-40 minutes to reach UPMC Bedford, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

From PA-26, drivers will merge onto **US-220**, a major highway that provides a more direct route to Bedford. This portion of the drive is generally faster, with higher speed limits and fewer intersections. However, traffic can be heavier during peak hours, potentially increasing travel time.

The final leg of the journey involves navigating local roads within Bedford to reach UPMC Bedford. This portion of the trip is usually quick, but can be impacted by traffic congestion around the hospital.

**Secondary Routes and Considerations**

Alternative routes exist, but they typically involve longer drive times. For example, traveling south on PA-26 and then connecting to **I-99** offers an alternative route to Altoona, Pennsylvania, and its healthcare facilities. However, this route adds considerable mileage and travel time, potentially exceeding an hour.

Weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice can make roads treacherous, increasing the risk of accidents and delays. Residents should always be prepared for potential travel disruptions during inclement weather. The Asthma Score acknowledges the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for delays due to weather and traffic.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public **transportation** options in Buffalo Mills are extremely limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The primary provider is the Bedford County Transportation Authority (BCTA). However, their service is primarily demand-response, meaning riders must schedule trips in advance.

BCTA offers door-to-door service, which is beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and scheduling requirements can make it difficult to access healthcare appointments, especially in emergencies. The BCTA does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards.

The lack of readily available public **transportation** significantly impacts the Asthma Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The reliance on pre-scheduled, demand-response service creates a barrier to timely healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Buffalo Mills area, but their availability can be inconsistent. Response times can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. This unreliability poses a challenge for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation who require immediate medical attention.

Specialized medical transport services are available, but they often come at a higher cost. These services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are crucial for individuals who are unable to drive themselves to appointments or require medical assistance during transport.

The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport provides a safety net, but their limitations and potential costs are factored into the Asthma Score. The reliability of these services is not guaranteed, especially in emergencies.

**The Asthma Score for Buffalo Mills (ZIP Code 15534)**

Considering the factors discussed, the Asthma Score for Buffalo Mills (ZIP Code 15534) is a **2 out of 5**.

The score reflects the following:

* **Drive times to healthcare facilities are moderate**, with a reliance on personal vehicles and potential delays due to traffic and weather.
* **Public transportation options are extremely limited**, posing a significant barrier for individuals without access to a vehicle.
* **Ride-sharing services and medical transport are available but their reliability and cost are concerns.**

**Recommendations for Residents with Asthma**

For residents of Buffalo Mills with asthma, several strategies can help mitigate the challenges of healthcare access:

* **Establish a strong relationship with a primary care physician** and develop a detailed asthma action plan.
* **Maintain a reliable vehicle** and ensure it is properly maintained.
* **Familiarize yourself with the BCTA** and other transportation options, including ride-sharing services.
* **Identify emergency contacts** who can provide transportation assistance in case of an exacerbation.
* **Consider the impact of weather conditions** on travel times and plan accordingly.
* **Explore telemedicine options** for routine appointments and medication refills.

**Conclusion**

Buffalo Mills offers a tranquil setting, but its rural location and limited **transportation** infrastructure create challenges for individuals with asthma. While the availability of personal vehicles and specialized medical transport provides some degree of healthcare access, the limited public **transportation** options and potential for delays due to weather or traffic warrant careful consideration for anyone **moving to Buffalo Mills** with a respiratory condition. The Asthma Score of 2 underscores the need for proactive planning and preparedness to ensure timely access to healthcare and effectively manage asthma symptoms.