15746, Hillsdale, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15746, Hillsdale, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.38 percent of residents in 15746 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Miners Medical Center with a distance of 11.02 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15746**

ZIP Code 15746, encompassing the charming borough of Hillsdale, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Indiana County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. The accessibility of medical services, especially for individuals managing conditions like asthma, is a crucial consideration. This assessment explores the transportation options available, evaluating their potential impact on healthcare access, and providing a comprehensive "Asthma Score" to inform residents and prospective newcomers.

The primary concern, of course, is how easily someone can get to their appointments.

The very act of traveling to a doctor's appointment can be a challenge, particularly for those with respiratory conditions. The Asthma Score considers the ease of transportation, the potential for exposure to environmental triggers, and the overall stress associated with the journey. This score reflects the reality of navigating the transportation landscape of Hillsdale, Pennsylvania, and its surrounding areas.

**Driving and Road Infrastructure**

The most common mode of transportation in this rural region is the personal vehicle. Residents of Hillsdale primarily rely on their cars for commuting, running errands, and, crucially, accessing healthcare. The primary roadways facilitating travel within and beyond the borough are US Route 119 and PA Route 286.

US Route 119, a major north-south artery, provides access to Indiana, the county seat, and other regional hubs. PA Route 286, running east-west, connects Hillsdale to neighboring communities and provides access to major roadways like US Route 22, a vital link to Pittsburgh and beyond.

The drive time to Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), the primary healthcare provider for the area, from Hillsdale, averages approximately 15-20 minutes via US Route 119. The route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours, potentially increasing travel time and exposure to vehicle exhaust, a known asthma trigger.

Further afield, access to specialized healthcare facilities in Pittsburgh, approximately 70 miles away, necessitates a longer drive, typically taking around 1.5 to 2 hours via US Route 22 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike. This longer commute, coupled with potential traffic congestion, significantly impacts the Asthma Score, particularly for those requiring frequent specialist visits.

The condition of the roads, the presence of potholes, and the potential for construction-related delays can also contribute to stress and exacerbate asthma symptoms. While the roadways are generally in good condition, seasonal weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during the winter months, can pose challenges and increase travel times.

**Public Transportation Options**

Public transportation options in the Hillsdale area are limited, which poses a significant challenge for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus service throughout the county.

ICTA operates several routes, but service frequency and coverage in the Hillsdale area are limited. The routes primarily serve the town of Indiana, with less frequent service to more rural areas like Hillsdale. The availability of accessible buses with features like wheelchair lifts is a positive factor for individuals with disabilities, including those who may have mobility issues related to their asthma.

ICTA offers a demand-response service, which allows residents to request a ride to a specific destination. This service, while helpful, requires advance booking and may have limited availability. The lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the Asthma Score, particularly for those who are dependent on it.

The potential for exposure to environmental triggers, such as dust, allergens, and air pollutants, within the bus environment is a concern. The cleanliness of the buses and the potential for exposure to other passengers with respiratory infections can also pose a risk.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Indiana County area, but their availability and reliability in Hillsdale are limited. The availability of these services is often dependent on the time of day and the demand in the area. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The availability of these services offers an alternative to driving or public transportation, but the limited availability and cost considerations impact the Asthma Score.

**Asthma Score Calculation and Considerations**

The Asthma Score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 15746 is calculated based on several factors, including:

* **Drive Time:** The average travel time to IRMC and specialized healthcare facilities.
* **Road Conditions:** The quality of the roads and the potential for delays.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The frequency, coverage, and accessibility of ICTA bus routes.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Availability:** The availability, reliability, and cost of these services.
* **Environmental Factors:** The potential for exposure to asthma triggers during transportation.

Based on these factors, the Asthma Score for ZIP Code 15746 is considered moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for exposure to environmental triggers during travel contribute to this score.

**Impact on Healthcare Access and Moving to Hillsdale**

The transportation challenges in Hillsdale can significantly impact healthcare access for individuals with asthma. The longer commute times to specialized care facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for exposure to environmental triggers can create barriers to accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

For individuals considering moving to Hillsdale, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Those who rely on public transportation or have limited mobility may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare.

The Asthma Score serves as a valuable tool for prospective residents, providing a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape and its potential impact on their healthcare journey. It is essential to weigh the benefits of living in a rural community against the challenges of accessing healthcare.

**Recommendations**

To improve the Asthma Score for ZIP Code 15746, several recommendations can be considered:

* **Enhance Public Transportation:** Increase the frequency and coverage of ICTA bus routes, particularly in the Hillsdale area. Improve the accessibility of bus stops and provide real-time information on bus schedules.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing:** Encourage the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Support Medical Transportation:** Expand the availability and affordability of medical transportation services.
* **Improve Road Infrastructure:** Maintain and improve the condition of roadways to minimize delays and reduce exposure to environmental triggers.
* **Promote Telehealth:** Encourage the use of telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person visits, especially for routine follow-ups.

By addressing these issues, the community can improve healthcare access for residents with asthma and other respiratory conditions, making Hillsdale a more welcoming and supportive environment for all.