The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15660, Lowber, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
63.28 percent of residents in 15660 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Excela Health - Frick Hospital with a distance of 13.66 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 15660, Lowber, Pennsylvania
Asthma Score | 95 |
---|---|
People Score | 90 |
Provider Score | 86 |
Hospital Score | 49 |
Travel Score | 55 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 15660 | Lowber | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 15.67 | 15.67 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 50.00 | 50.00 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 34.33 | 34.33 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 15660, Lowber, Pennsylvania
## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lowber, PA (ZIP Code 15660)
The air hangs heavy in Lowber, Pennsylvania, a small community nestled within the embrace of Westmoreland County. For residents managing asthma, the quality of that air, and the ease with which they can access healthcare, are paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the complexities of transportation and healthcare access within ZIP code 15660, a critical consideration for anyone moving to this area, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities. We will explore the available modes of transportation, their limitations, and how they impact the ability to receive timely and effective asthma care.
The cornerstone of any discussion surrounding healthcare access is the ability to physically reach a medical facility. For Lowber residents, this often means navigating the network of roads that weave through the rolling hills. Driving remains the most common mode of transportation, offering a degree of flexibility unavailable with other options. However, drive times can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination.
Primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and emergency rooms are the essential components of asthma management. From Lowber, the closest medical facilities are in neighboring towns such as Greensburg and Irwin. Reaching these locations typically involves traveling along **Pennsylvania Route 30**, a major east-west thoroughfare. The journey can be relatively quick during off-peak hours, often taking between 15 to 30 minutes. However, rush hour can significantly extend travel times, potentially doubling the duration of the trip.
**Interstate 70** provides an alternative route, offering a faster, though potentially more congested, option to reach healthcare facilities further afield, such as those in Pittsburgh. Accessing I-70 from Lowber involves traveling on local roads such as **County Line Road** and **Lowber Road**, before merging onto **State Route 981**. This route offers a wider range of healthcare options but comes with the added time and expense of highway travel.
Public transportation presents a different set of challenges. The Westmoreland County Transit Authority (WCTA) provides limited bus service within the region. While the WCTA does serve areas surrounding Lowber, the routes are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, equipped with features like wheelchair lifts, is crucial for individuals with mobility impairments. Confirming the specific route numbers serving Lowber and their ADA accessibility is vital for those relying on public transportation.
The WCTA website or a call to their customer service number will provide the most up-to-date information on routes, schedules, and ADA compliance. The limited frequency of bus routes may necessitate long wait times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms during periods of exposure to environmental triggers. This underscores the importance of careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options.
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation possibilities. While not always readily available in rural areas, their presence in Lowber, and their proximity to larger population centers, should be assessed. Ride-sharing can provide a convenient and flexible alternative to driving or public transportation, particularly for appointments or emergencies.
However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to the doctor. Furthermore, the reliability of these services in Lowber needs to be evaluated. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be unpredictable.
Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer specialized transportation, often with trained personnel and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or are unable to utilize other forms of transportation.
However, these services often come with a higher price tag and require advance booking. The availability of medical transportation services in Lowber, and their coverage area, should be investigated. The ability to schedule transportation well in advance is essential for managing chronic conditions like asthma.
The environmental factors in Lowber also play a crucial role in the Asthma Score. Air quality can significantly impact asthma symptoms. Proximity to industrial areas, agricultural activities, and the presence of allergens like pollen and mold can all contribute to poor air quality. Monitoring air quality reports, and understanding the local environmental conditions, is essential for managing asthma effectively.
Healthcare access extends beyond simply reaching a medical facility. The availability of specialized asthma care, including pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists, is vital. The proximity of these specialists to Lowber, and the ease with which they can be reached, are critical considerations.
The presence of emergency medical services (EMS) is also a key factor. Quick access to emergency care can be life-saving for individuals experiencing severe asthma attacks. The response time of EMS in Lowber, and the availability of advanced life support, should be evaluated.
Moving to Lowber, or any area, with asthma requires careful planning and consideration. The Asthma Score is a holistic assessment of the transportation options, healthcare access, and environmental factors that impact the ability to effectively manage the condition. Driving times, public transportation routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services all play a role.
Furthermore, the local environmental conditions and the availability of specialized asthma care, including emergency medical services, are critical factors. By understanding these elements, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have access to the resources they require. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape, and to reach medical facilities in a timely and efficient manner, is paramount for individuals living with asthma in Lowber.
Reviews
No reviews yet.
You may also like