15834, Emporium, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15834, Emporium, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.51 percent of residents in 15834 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 19.06 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Emporium, PA (ZIP Code 15834)

The crisp mountain air of Emporium, Pennsylvania, in ZIP code 15834, offers a picturesque backdrop for life. However, for individuals managing asthma, the beauty of the region must be balanced with the realities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical care, a crucial factor for anyone considering moving to Emporium or already residing there. Understanding the nuances of transportation is paramount to ensuring effective asthma management.

Emporium, nestled in the heart of the Pennsylvania Wilds, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding transportation. The primary mode of transport within the borough and to neighboring towns is the personal vehicle. This reliance on cars necessitates careful consideration of drive times, road conditions, and potential weather-related delays, all of which can impact healthcare access, particularly during an asthma exacerbation.

The primary artery connecting Emporium to the outside world is **U.S. Route 120**. This two-lane highway winds its way east and west, offering access to larger towns and cities where specialized medical care may be available. Traveling east on Route 120 leads to communities like Lock Haven, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. To the west, Route 120 connects to communities like St. Marys, a 45-minute drive, and Kane, a 1-hour drive. These destinations offer a broader range of healthcare options, including specialists and hospitals.

Another important road is **Pennsylvania Route 155**, which runs north and south, providing access to surrounding areas. The drive to Coudersport, the county seat, is about 45 minutes, where one can find additional healthcare services. The drive times can be affected by weather, especially during the winter months.

Public transportation options are limited in Emporium and the surrounding areas. There is no readily available public bus system within the borough or to the larger cities. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive, limiting their healthcare access. This highlights the critical need for alternative transportation solutions, especially for those with asthma who may experience sudden respiratory distress.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are not consistently available in Emporium. Their presence is sporadic, often dependent on driver availability. This makes relying on ride-sharing for scheduled appointments or emergency situations unreliable. This situation underscores the importance of having a backup transportation plan, especially for those with asthma.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often require advance booking and may have specific geographic limitations. Researching the availability of NEMT providers in the Emporium area is crucial for anyone with asthma. This ensures access to scheduled appointments and necessary medical care.

For individuals with disabilities, including those with severe asthma, the availability of ADA-compliant transportation is essential. This includes vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts and drivers trained to assist passengers with mobility issues. The limited public transportation options in Emporium emphasize the need for accessible private transportation services.

Healthcare access is further influenced by the location of medical facilities within the borough and the surrounding areas. The primary healthcare provider in Emporium is the UPMC Cole Family Practice. This facility offers primary care services, which are essential for managing asthma. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists or allergists, is limited within Emporium. Patients often need to travel to larger cities like St. Marys, Kane, or Lock Haven to access these specialized services.

The distance to emergency medical services (EMS) is another critical factor. The Emporium Volunteer Fire Department provides ambulance services. Response times can vary depending on the location within the borough and the severity of the emergency. During an asthma attack, every minute counts. Understanding the EMS response protocol and having a clear plan for contacting emergency services is crucial.

The "Asthma Score" for Emporium, Pennsylvania (15834) is moderate. While the borough offers primary care services, the limited public transportation, unreliable ride-sharing options, and the need to travel to neighboring towns for specialized care present challenges for individuals managing asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related delays further complicate healthcare access.

For those considering moving to Emporium, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Individuals with asthma should research the availability of medical transportation services, identify the closest specialists, and establish a clear plan for accessing emergency medical care. This proactive approach will help ensure effective asthma management and a better quality of life in this beautiful, yet geographically challenging, region.