15757, Mahaffey, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15757, Mahaffey, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.20 percent of residents in 15757 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 15.10 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mahaffey, PA (ZIP Code 15757)

Moving to Mahaffey, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Clearfield County, offers a tranquil escape. However, for individuals managing asthma, the ease of **healthcare access** is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up meticulously analyzes the **transportation** landscape within and around ZIP Code 15757, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering a move. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all critical factors influencing the quality of life for asthma sufferers.

Mahaffey itself is a small, predominantly rural community. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in Clearfield, approximately 15 miles to the west, or DuBois, roughly 25 miles to the northwest. This geographical reality immediately underscores the importance of reliable **transportation**. The ability to quickly and efficiently reach a doctor, specialist, or emergency room is crucial for managing asthma effectively.

**Driving the Distance:**

The primary arteries connecting Mahaffey to the surrounding healthcare hubs are US Route 322 and Pennsylvania Route 36. Traveling to Clearfield generally involves taking Route 36 south, which eventually merges with US 322 west. Expect a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can present challenges, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of delays.

Reaching DuBois requires heading north on Route 36, which then intersects with Interstate 80. This journey is slightly longer, taking approximately 35-45 minutes. Interstate 80 is a major east-west thoroughfare, offering generally faster travel speeds. However, it's also prone to congestion, especially during peak hours or near major interchanges.

The condition of the roads is another consideration. While the main highways are generally in good condition, some secondary roads within Mahaffey may have potholes or other imperfections that could exacerbate asthma symptoms due to vehicle vibrations. Regular vehicle maintenance is therefore vital.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit options in and around Mahaffey are severely limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides bus service within the county, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the needs of regular medical appointments. Service is infrequent, and routes may not directly serve the healthcare facilities in Clearfield or DuBois.

Furthermore, the CCATA website does not explicitly state that their buses are ADA accessible. Therefore, individuals with mobility issues may find it challenging to utilize this service. Relying on public transit for consistent **healthcare access** in this area is not a practical solution.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Clearfield and DuBois, but their presence in Mahaffey is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of drivers is significantly lower in rural areas, and wait times can be extended, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is therefore risky.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available. Ambulance services are provided by local volunteer fire departments and private companies, responding to emergency calls. NEMT services, often used for scheduled appointments, may be offered by private companies or through insurance providers. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. It is essential to research and understand the specific coverage and limitations of these services before moving to Mahaffey.

**The Asthma Score Assessment:**

Considering the above factors, Mahaffey presents a moderate challenge for individuals with asthma. The primary concern is the reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation** to **healthcare access**. The drive times to the nearest medical facilities are manageable, but the lack of robust public transit and the unreliability of ride-sharing services create vulnerabilities.

The **Asthma Score** for Mahaffey, PA (ZIP Code 15757) is negatively impacted by the limited public transit options. The score is also affected by the potential for weather-related delays and the dependence on personal vehicles. The remoteness of the area and the lack of readily available alternative **transportation** methods are significant drawbacks.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Mahaffey, careful planning is essential. Here are key recommendations:

* **Vehicle Reliability:** Ensure your personal vehicle is in excellent working condition and regularly maintained. Consider a vehicle with good air filtration systems.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Develop a detailed emergency plan that includes readily available emergency contacts, medication supplies, and alternative **transportation** options in case of vehicle breakdown or severe weather.
* **Insurance Verification:** Confirm your health insurance coverage includes transportation assistance for medical appointments.
* **Pre-Move Research:** Contact local medical transport providers to understand their services, availability, and costs.
* **Proactive Healthcare:** Establish relationships with local healthcare providers in advance of your move. This ensures you have access to prompt medical attention when needed.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Mahaffey offers a tranquil lifestyle, but it requires careful consideration for those managing asthma. The **transportation** landscape presents challenges, primarily due to the lack of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles. By understanding these challenges and proactively planning, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the **healthcare access** landscape and enjoy the benefits of **moving to Mahaffey**. While the **Asthma Score** is moderate, a proactive approach can mitigate the risks and ensure a healthy and fulfilling life in this rural community.