15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.51 percent of residents in 15728 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 20.03 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Clymer, PA (ZIP Code 15728)

The crisp air of Clymer, Pennsylvania, nestled within the embrace of Indiana County, offers a certain charm, a quiet beauty that draws people seeking respite from the frenetic pace of urban life. But for individuals managing asthma, a move to a new location necessitates a careful evaluation of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the realities of transportation and healthcare access within ZIP Code 15728, providing a comprehensive overview for prospective residents, particularly those prioritizing respiratory health.

The very essence of healthcare access hinges on reliable transportation. In Clymer, the primary mode of personal transportation is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. Navigating the roads, however, requires careful consideration. The primary arteries are Route 119, a north-south thoroughfare, and Route 403, which runs east-west. These highways are generally well-maintained, but winter weather, common in this region, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Secondary roads, such as Penn Run Road and Harmony Road, provide access to local communities, but they can be narrower and less consistently cleared during inclement weather.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of our asthma score. The closest hospitals are Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC) in Indiana, PA, and UPMC Altoona in Altoona, PA. Driving to IRMC, approximately 15 miles away, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via Route 119. However, traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours or in the event of an accident. UPMC Altoona, situated roughly 70 miles east, requires a significantly longer commute, usually around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours via Route 22 East and Route 219 South. This extended travel time poses a considerable challenge, especially during asthma exacerbations.

Public transportation options in Clymer are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and primarily serve the town of Indiana. The ICTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Unfortunately, the routes within and to Clymer are not conducive to frequent trips to healthcare facilities. Relying on public transit for routine appointments or emergency care would be extremely challenging, and the ICTA’s reach is limited to the main thoroughfares.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Clymer is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to healthcare providers. This lack of readily available and affordable ride-sharing options presents a major obstacle to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and AMR (American Medical Response) operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. These services are equipped to transport patients to and from medical appointments, but they often require advance booking and may involve higher costs than other transportation options. The availability of NEMT services is a definite positive, but their cost and the need for pre-planning are important considerations.

Beyond the immediate transportation landscape, the availability of specialized asthma care within a reasonable distance is paramount. IRMC in Indiana offers pulmonology services, including asthma management and treatment. However, the wait times for appointments and the availability of specialized asthma care can vary. Consulting with the hospital directly to understand the current capacity of their pulmonology department is essential. The distance to specialized asthma care, and the travel time, are critical factors in our asthma score.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Clymer, PA (ZIP Code 15728) is, therefore, mixed. The beauty and tranquility of the area are undeniable, but the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access cannot be ignored. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the unpredictable availability of ride-sharing services pose significant hurdles for individuals managing asthma. The longer drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly to UPMC Altoona, are a major concern.

The availability of specialized asthma care at IRMC is a positive factor, but the potential for longer wait times and the need for careful planning are important considerations. The presence of medical transportation services provides a valuable option, but the cost and the need for pre-booking must be factored into the equation.

For individuals considering moving to Clymer with asthma, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and a realistic understanding of the transportation and healthcare landscape are crucial. Careful planning, including establishing a reliable transportation plan, identifying local pharmacies, and building a relationship with a pulmonologist, is essential. The allure of Clymer must be weighed against the practical realities of healthcare access, particularly when considering the impact of asthma on daily life.