15737, Elmora, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15737, Elmora, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.00 percent of residents in 15737 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 27.32 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Elmora (ZIP Code 15737)

The crisp air of Elmora, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15737), might seem idyllic, but for those managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare is a crucial consideration. This assessment, the "Asthma Score," delves into the complexities of transportation, healthcare access, and the practicalities of daily life for individuals considering a move to this Cambria County community. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone seeking to thrive while managing respiratory challenges.

Elmora, a small community, presents unique transportation challenges. The primary mode of transportation is personal vehicle. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing services may be sporadic. This reliance on personal vehicles directly impacts healthcare access, especially during severe asthma exacerbations. The Asthma Score will examine the viability of various transportation methods, weighing their impact on timely medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Arteries of Access**

The most direct route to healthcare facilities from Elmora is by car. Several hospitals and specialist offices serve the area, but their accessibility hinges on the efficiency of the local roadways. The primary thoroughfare connecting Elmora to larger towns is **U.S. Route 219**. This major highway offers relatively direct access to Johnstown, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic.

The **William Penn Highway (U.S. Route 22)**, further south, provides another option, though it can add travel time, potentially 30-40 minutes. This route is useful for accessing healthcare facilities in the Altoona area, though the distance is greater.

Local roads, such as **Elmora Road** and **Chestnut Street**, are essential for navigating within Elmora and connecting to these primary highways. However, these roads are often narrow and winding, potentially increasing travel time and stress, particularly during inclement weather.

Traffic congestion is generally moderate in this area, but rush hour, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times, can impact drive times. The Asthma Score acknowledges that longer drive times, especially during an asthma attack, can significantly impact health outcomes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Safety Net**

Public transportation options in Elmora and the surrounding area are limited. The **Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA)** operates bus routes, but these routes may not directly serve Elmora or provide frequent service. Route information and schedules are available on the CCTA website.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. The CCTA strives to provide accessible vehicles, but the availability of accessible routes and stops in Elmora needs to be verified. Limited public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. This limitation underscores the importance of alternative transportation options for healthcare access.

The Asthma Score will factor in the infrequent nature of public transit and the potential for delays, making it less reliable for urgent medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area. However, their availability in Elmora is less certain. Response times can be longer in rural areas, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can be a financial burden.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), offer a lifeline for individuals requiring assistance. Ambulance services are readily available in the event of an emergency. NEMT providers offer transportation for appointments and other medical needs.

The Asthma Score will assess the reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing and medical transport options, considering their role in providing timely healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: The Destination**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a vital factor. The Johnstown area offers a range of healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. **Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center** is a major hospital in Johnstown, providing comprehensive medical services, including emergency care and pulmonology specialists.

**Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber** is another option, though further away. Accessing specialist care, such as pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists, is crucial for asthma management. The Asthma Score evaluates the availability of these specialists and the ease of scheduling appointments.

The Asthma Score will also consider the availability of pharmacies for medication refills and the presence of urgent care facilities for non-life-threatening asthma exacerbations.

**The Elmora Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Asthma Score for Elmora (ZIP Code 15737) is not a single number but a comprehensive evaluation. It considers the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The time required to reach the nearest hospital, urgent care facility, and specialist offices.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency, accessibility, and ADA compliance of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The presence, response times, and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and cost of ambulance and NEMT services.
* **Healthcare Provider Proximity:** The distance to hospitals, clinics, specialist offices, pharmacies, and urgent care facilities.
* **Road Conditions:** The quality and traffic patterns of local roadways.

**Moving to Elmora: A Personalized Decision**

For individuals with asthma, moving to Elmora requires careful consideration. While the area offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the transportation limitations present challenges. The Asthma Score helps prospective residents assess their individual needs and determine if Elmora is a suitable environment.

Individuals who rely on public transit or have limited mobility may find healthcare access challenging. Those with reliable transportation, whether a personal vehicle or access to ride-sharing services, may find Elmora a viable option.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The Asthma Score for Elmora (ZIP Code 15737) highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and healthcare access in this rural community. While the area offers a peaceful setting, individuals with asthma must carefully evaluate their ability to reach healthcare facilities promptly. By weighing the drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing options, and the availability of medical transport, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and overall well-being.