15870, Wilcox, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15870, Wilcox, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.33 percent of residents in 15870 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 15.49 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Wilcox, PA (ZIP Code 15870)

The crisp mountain air of Wilcox, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 15870, presents a picturesque setting for those seeking a respite from urban clamor. However, for individuals managing asthma, the beauty of this location is intertwined with the practicalities of healthcare access. This analysis, the "Asthma Score," delves into the complexities of transportation options available for residents of 15870, specifically considering the challenges faced by those with asthma, a condition that can be significantly impacted by environmental factors and timely medical intervention. We'll examine the available transportation infrastructure, evaluating its suitability for individuals with asthma, and ultimately, assessing the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services.

The most immediate challenge for residents of Wilcox is its relative remoteness. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in larger towns and cities, demanding careful consideration of transportation logistics. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicle. The primary route out of Wilcox is via **Pennsylvania Route 219**, a two-lane highway that snakes its way through the Allegheny National Forest. This road, while scenic, can be subject to unpredictable weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, potentially impacting travel times and safety.

Heading south on Route 219, one can reach DuBois, Pennsylvania, approximately 35 miles away. This drive, in ideal conditions, takes around 45 minutes to an hour. DuBois offers a variety of healthcare providers, including Penn Highlands DuBois, a regional hospital. This is the closest location for specialized care. The drive involves navigating the winding roads of the area, potentially exposing individuals with asthma to triggers like pollen, exhaust fumes, and varying air quality.

Further afield, the city of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, is a more significant healthcare hub, about 90 miles away. This journey, typically a two-hour drive, involves connecting to **Interstate 80** and then **Route 219 South**. Johnstown boasts a wider range of specialist physicians and advanced medical facilities. However, the extended travel time increases the risk of exposure to asthma triggers and necessitates careful planning for medication management and potential exacerbations.

Public transportation options in 15870 are extremely limited. There is no established bus service within the town itself. The nearest public transit options are found in DuBois, but these are primarily local routes, and do not connect with Wilcox. The lack of public transportation severely limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those who cannot afford or maintain a car. The absence of accessible public transit, including buses with wheelchair lifts (ADA features), further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the DuBois area, but their presence in Wilcox is sporadic and unreliable. The availability of ride-sharing depends on driver availability and demand, potentially leading to long wait times or even the inability to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This poses a significant hurdle for individuals with asthma, who may require urgent transportation to a medical facility during an asthma attack.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are available in the region. These services are crucial for individuals with asthma who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions or mobility limitations. However, the response time for ambulances, particularly in rural areas, can be longer than in urban settings. NEMT services, such as those offered by companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) or Logisticare, are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. The availability and reliability of these services in Wilcox are crucial for ensuring timely healthcare access.

The air quality in Wilcox and the surrounding areas is generally good, but seasonal variations and localized pollution sources can still pose challenges for individuals with asthma. The proximity to the Allegheny National Forest means that pollen counts can be high during certain times of the year, triggering asthma symptoms. Furthermore, the use of wood-burning stoves for heating, common in rural areas, can contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.

For someone considering moving to Wilcox with asthma, several factors must be carefully weighed. The reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access necessitates reliable transportation and the ability to navigate potentially challenging road conditions. The limited public transit options and the uncertainty of ride-sharing services require careful planning and the development of backup transportation strategies.

The Asthma Score for 15870, therefore, is significantly impacted by the challenges of transportation. The remoteness of the location, the limited public transit options, and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers to healthcare access for individuals with asthma. The availability of ride-sharing services is unreliable, and medical transportation services are essential but may have longer response times. The individual with asthma must be prepared for longer travel times to reach healthcare facilities, the potential for exposure to asthma triggers during travel, and the need for careful planning to manage their condition effectively.

The ideal scenario for someone with asthma moving to Wilcox would involve securing a reliable personal vehicle, developing a comprehensive asthma management plan in consultation with their healthcare provider, and establishing a network of support to assist with transportation needs. The location offers a peaceful lifestyle, but the practicalities of healthcare access must be a top priority. The individual should also consider the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of emergency services, and the potential for exposure to environmental triggers. This includes the local air quality, and the need for proactive strategies to manage asthma symptoms and prevent exacerbations.