15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.09 percent of residents in 15856 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 24.54 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rockton, PA (ZIP Code 15856)

The crisp air of Rockton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Clearfield County, often beckons those seeking a tranquil escape. However, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of rural living must be tempered with a pragmatic assessment of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options for residents of ZIP code 15856, focusing on the critical link between commute and healthcare access, especially for those requiring regular medical attention. This is a crucial consideration for anyone considering moving to Rockton.

The cornerstone of this analysis lies in understanding the drive-time dynamics. Accessing specialized asthma care, including pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists, often necessitates travel to larger population centers. From Rockton, the primary artery for vehicular transportation is **U.S. Route 322**, a vital east-west corridor. Driving east towards Clearfield, the county seat, offers a relatively short commute, approximately 20 minutes, to the Penn Highlands Clearfield hospital. This facility provides a range of medical services, including respiratory care.

Venturing further east on **U.S. Route 322**, the journey extends to Philipsburg, a drive of roughly 45 minutes. While Philipsburg may offer fewer specialized asthma care options, it still offers some medical facilities. The availability of care in Philipsburg may be useful in case of an emergency.

Traveling west on **U.S. Route 322** presents different considerations. The drive to DuBois, a town with a more developed healthcare infrastructure, is about 30 minutes. DuBois Regional Medical Center, now part of Penn Highlands Healthcare, provides more extensive services, including specialized pulmonary care and allergy specialists. This is a crucial consideration for those with complex asthma management needs.

The reliance on personal vehicles, however, is a significant factor in the Asthma Score. Rural areas, like Rockton, often lack robust public transportation options. The lack of public transportation could prove to be a significant hurdle for those who are unable to drive, or those who have difficulty driving.

Public transit in Clearfield County is limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are not designed for frequent travel to specialized healthcare facilities. The CCATA does provide some ADA-accessible vehicles, but the frequency and coverage of these routes may not meet the needs of asthma patients requiring regular appointments. The CCATA bus routes are not designed for the needs of those seeking healthcare access.

The absence of a well-developed public transit system underscores the critical role of ride-sharing services and medical transport. Uber and Lyft operate in the area, though availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty adds to the complexity of healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance companies and specialized non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, become essential for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to personal vehicles. These services, while vital, can be costly, and the availability of NEMT may require advance booking and coordination.

The weather in Rockton and the surrounding areas can also impact transportation. Winter weather, with its snow and ice, can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to healthcare appointments. This further emphasizes the importance of having alternative transportation options.

The Asthma Score must also consider the specific needs of individuals with asthma. Those with severe asthma or frequent exacerbations require more reliable and readily available transportation. For these individuals, the potential for delays or cancellations due to weather or limited ride-sharing availability can be a significant source of stress and anxiety.

The availability of pharmacies and medication refills within Rockton is another factor. Fortunately, the town does have local pharmacies. However, access to a wider range of asthma medications or specialized respiratory equipment may necessitate travel to larger towns like DuBois or Clearfield.

The distance to emergency medical services (EMS) is also important. Rockton is served by local volunteer fire departments and ambulance services. Response times, while generally adequate, can be longer in rural areas. The proximity to a hospital or urgent care facility is a critical factor in managing asthma emergencies.

The availability of telehealth services is another factor that can help improve healthcare access. Telehealth allows patients to connect with their doctors remotely, which can be particularly useful for routine follow-up appointments or medication management. However, telehealth requires access to reliable internet service, which may be limited in some areas of Rockton.

The cost of healthcare is another consideration. The cost of transportation, including gas, ride-sharing fees, or medical transport, adds to the overall cost of healthcare. The financial burden of transportation can be a significant challenge for low-income individuals or families.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for Rockton (ZIP code 15856) reflects a nuanced picture. While the area offers the tranquility of rural living, the limitations in transportation options, particularly public transit, present challenges for those managing asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential costs of medical transport all contribute to a lower overall score. Prospective residents with asthma must carefully consider these factors when evaluating the suitability of moving to Rockton. The need for reliable transportation to healthcare facilities is paramount. The potential for weather-related delays, the limited public transit options, and the cost of alternative transportation methods must be carefully weighed against the benefits of rural living. The success of managing asthma in Rockton hinges on a proactive approach to transportation planning and the development of a robust healthcare access strategy.