15863, Stump Creek, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15863, Stump Creek, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.70 percent of residents in 15863 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 31.57 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Stump Creek, PA (ZIP Code 15863)**

The crisp air of Stump Creek, Pennsylvania, a community nestled in the heart of Clearfield County, promises a life of tranquility. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare becomes a significant consideration. This assessment, the "Asthma Score," analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 15863, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents, particularly those contemplating moving to Stump Creek. The goal is to empower informed decisions, ensuring that healthcare needs are met effectively.

The Asthma Score considers various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each mode is evaluated based on its accessibility, reliability, cost, and the presence of asthma-friendly features. The analysis also considers the distance to healthcare facilities, drive times, and the availability of emergency services. The score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation of the factors impacting healthcare access for asthmatics in Stump Creek.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

The primary mode of transportation in Stump Creek and the surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. The ease of driving is a crucial factor when assessing healthcare access. Residents often rely on a network of roads to reach medical facilities. The main artery is Pennsylvania Route 219, a north-south thoroughfare that connects Stump Creek to larger towns and cities. Traveling south on Route 219 provides access to DuBois, a regional hub with a variety of healthcare providers, including Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital. The drive is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Heading east, Route 219 intersects with Interstate 80, a major east-west highway. While I-80 offers a faster route to distant medical centers in cities like State College (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes) and Pittsburgh (approximately 2 hours 30 minutes), it also introduces the potential for increased exposure to traffic-related air pollution, a known asthma trigger. The road surfaces are well-maintained, but winter weather can create hazardous driving conditions, potentially delaying access to care.

Local roads, such as Route 322 and various township roads, provide access to smaller clinics and physician offices within the surrounding communities. These roads, however, are often less well-maintained and may be subject to seasonal closures or delays due to weather. The condition of these roads can significantly impact the ease of healthcare access, especially during emergencies.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Stump Creek are extremely limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides some bus services, but these routes are infrequent and primarily serve the larger towns in the county. There is no direct public transit route that connects Stump Creek to a major healthcare facility. This lack of public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The CCATA buses do not have extensive ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, though they are equipped with wheelchair lifts. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules make them impractical for routine healthcare appointments or emergencies. For individuals with asthma, the waiting times at bus stops and the potential for exposure to allergens or pollutants on the bus can be problematic. The absence of a robust public transportation system significantly reduces healthcare access for a segment of the population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Patchwork Solution**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the DuBois area, but their availability in Stump Creek is inconsistent. The wait times for a ride can be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for regular healthcare appointments. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for asthmatics.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, are available for non-emergency medical transportation. These services can provide door-to-door transportation to medical appointments, but they are often expensive and require advance booking. The cost can be a barrier for many individuals.

For individuals with severe asthma or mobility limitations, medical transport services are essential. However, the limited availability and high cost of these services can create a significant challenge. The need for pre-planning and the potential for delays can add stress and anxiety, especially during urgent medical situations.

**Healthcare Facilities and Drive Times**

The primary healthcare facility serving Stump Creek is Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital, located approximately 15-20 minutes south on Route 219. This hospital offers a full range of services, including emergency care, specialist consultations, and pulmonary care. The proximity of Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital is a significant advantage for residents of Stump Creek.

Other healthcare options include smaller clinics and physician offices in the surrounding communities, such as Reynoldsville and Sykesville. These facilities may offer primary care services and specialized care, but they may have limited resources or require referrals for specialist consultations. The drive times to these facilities are typically shorter than to Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital, but the availability of services may be limited.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like State College or Pittsburgh. These trips can involve significant travel times, ranging from 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on the destination and traffic conditions. The long travel times can be a significant burden for individuals with asthma, particularly during flare-ups or emergencies.

**Asthma-Friendly Considerations and Moving to Stump Creek**

When assessing the Asthma Score for Stump Creek, several asthma-friendly considerations are important. The air quality in the area is generally good, but seasonal allergens, such as pollen and mold spores, can trigger asthma symptoms. The prevalence of wood-burning stoves in some homes can also contribute to indoor air pollution.

For individuals considering moving to Stump Creek, it is essential to research the local air quality data and identify potential asthma triggers. The availability of healthcare facilities and the ease of transportation are also critical factors. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles may pose challenges for some individuals.

The Asthma Score for Stump Creek is moderately favorable. The proximity of Penn Highlands DuBois Hospital is a significant advantage. However, the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for exposure to air pollution during travel are factors that need to be considered. For individuals with severe asthma or mobility limitations, the lack of readily available and affordable transportation options can create significant barriers to healthcare access.

The decision to move to Stump Creek should be made with careful consideration of these factors. Individuals with asthma should assess their transportation needs, research local healthcare resources, and develop a plan for managing their condition. The goal is to ensure that healthcare access is not a barrier to a fulfilling life in this charming community.