15771, Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15771, Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.50 percent of residents in 15771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 8.33 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rochester Mills (ZIP Code 15771)

The crisp air of Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 15771, offers a bucolic charm, a haven for those seeking respite from the frenetic pace of city life. However, for individuals managing asthma, the tranquility of this rural setting must be balanced against the practicalities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options available to residents, specifically considering the time and ease of reaching medical facilities, crucial for maintaining asthma control. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania, and needing to assess their healthcare accessibility.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 15771 is vehicular transportation. The primary arteries for reaching medical care are the well-maintained roadways that crisscross the region. Driving is the most common and often the most efficient method of travel, particularly for those experiencing an asthma exacerbation requiring immediate attention.

From Rochester Mills, the journey to the nearest major healthcare provider, Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), typically involves a drive along **State Route 119** South. This route, though generally well-maintained, can experience heavier traffic during peak hours, potentially adding to the commute time. Expect a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, covering a distance of around 10-12 miles. The road surface is generally smooth, however, the presence of seasonal weather conditions such as snow and ice could impede travel.

Alternatively, one could utilize **State Route 286** East, which provides another access point to IRMC. This route, while offering a slightly different perspective of the surrounding countryside, also presents similar considerations regarding traffic and seasonal weather. The drive time is comparable to that of SR 119, about 15-20 minutes.

For those seeking specialized care or facilities outside of Indiana, such as those located in Pittsburgh, the journey becomes significantly longer. The primary route would involve heading west on **US Route 422**, eventually connecting to the major highways leading into Pittsburgh. This commute, however, can easily exceed an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Public transportation options in 15771 are limited, a reality common in rural areas. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus services within the county, but the frequency and routes available from Rochester Mills are restricted. Information regarding the ICTA routes and schedules can be obtained on their website.

The ICTA does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations, including those potentially experiencing an asthma-related breathing difficulty, can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency of the routes and the potential for longer travel times make public transportation a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Indiana County area, offering another avenue for transportation. However, the availability of these services in Rochester Mills may be less consistent than in more urbanized areas. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patient transport are also available. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. These services are particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive themselves. The cost of these services, however, can vary depending on the distance, level of care required, and insurance coverage.

Healthcare access in 15771 is influenced by several factors. The drive times to IRMC are generally manageable, but the limited public transportation and the potential for longer commutes to specialized care facilities present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offers additional options, but these come with associated costs and potential limitations in availability.

For individuals with asthma, the ability to quickly access medical care is paramount. The potential for an asthma exacerbation, which may require immediate treatment, necessitates a careful evaluation of the available transportation options.

The Asthma Score for 15771 reflects the balance between the relative ease of driving to IRMC and the limitations imposed by the limited public transportation, the potential for longer commutes to specialized care, and the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

When assessing the suitability of Rochester Mills for those with asthma, the following considerations are paramount. First, the individual's ability to drive or the availability of a reliable driver is critical. Second, the individual's financial resources to cover the costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation services must be considered. Third, the individual's ability to plan and schedule medical appointments in advance is important, given the limitations of public transportation.

Moving to Rochester Mills, Pennsylvania, offers a lifestyle change. However, for those with asthma, a thorough evaluation of the transportation landscape is crucial. A proactive approach, including identifying preferred routes, understanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and establishing a relationship with a local medical provider, can help ensure that healthcare access is not a barrier to enjoying the benefits of this rural community.