15922, Belsano, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15922, Belsano, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 15922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Miners Medical Center with a distance of 13.21 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15922 (Belsano, PA)

The air hangs heavy with possibility in Belsano, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15922), a small community nestled in the heart of Cambria County. For those considering a move, particularly individuals or families managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This Asthma Score write-up examines transportation options, crucial for reaching medical appointments, and evaluates their impact on healthcare access. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a vivid picture of navigating the region's landscape.

The primary concern for asthmatics is consistent and timely access to medical care. This includes routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and, critically, emergency care. Transportation, therefore, becomes a vital lifeline, a bridge connecting residents to the resources they need to thrive. The Asthma Score considers the ease, reliability, and potential environmental exposures associated with each mode of transportation.

**Driving the Landscape: Roadways and Drive Times**

Driving remains the most common form of transportation in Belsano. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access are US Route 219 and Pennsylvania Route 53. Driving to the nearest hospital, UPMC Altoona, located in Altoona, Pennsylvania, is a significant journey. The most direct route involves heading north on US Route 219, then east on Interstate 99.

Under ideal conditions, the drive to UPMC Altoona is approximately 45-60 minutes. However, the journey is susceptible to delays. Weather conditions, particularly snow and ice prevalent in the region during winter months, can significantly extend travel times. Accidents on US Route 219 or Interstate 99 can cause considerable congestion, adding stress and potentially jeopardizing timely access to care. For those needing specialized care at hospitals in Johnstown, such as Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, the drive is shorter, typically 20-30 minutes, using Pennsylvania Route 53 and US Route 219.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides public transportation within the region. However, the service is limited in Belsano and the surrounding areas. While the CCTA operates routes, their frequency and coverage are not extensive, particularly for areas outside of Johnstown. Accessing healthcare via public transit can be challenging, requiring careful planning and potentially multiple transfers.

The CCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility limitations related to asthma, can utilize the service. However, the limited route options and potential for longer travel times can make public transit a less desirable option for those with urgent medical needs. The availability of real-time tracking information for CCTA buses can improve the user experience.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Belsano is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for scheduled appointments requires advance booking and the potential for longer wait times. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized approach. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility needs. While these services can be a reliable option, they often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other transportation methods. The availability of medical transport providers in the Belsano area should be researched prior to moving.

**Environmental Considerations: Air Quality and Asthma Triggers**

Beyond the mechanics of transportation, environmental factors play a crucial role in managing asthma. Air quality, particularly during peak traffic hours or periods of high pollution, can exacerbate symptoms. Commuting via car exposes individuals to vehicle emissions, which can trigger asthma attacks. Public transit, while potentially reducing individual emissions, may expose riders to other environmental triggers, such as allergens and irritants.

The Asthma Score must consider the potential for exposure to environmental triggers during each mode of transportation. This includes factors like traffic congestion, proximity to industrial areas, and the presence of allergens. Choosing routes that minimize exposure to these triggers can help minimize asthma symptoms.

**Healthcare Access: A Synthesis of Factors**

The overall Asthma Score for commuting to healthcare in Belsano (ZIP Code 15922) is a complex evaluation. While the proximity to Johnstown offers access to some healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The drive times to UPMC Altoona, the primary regional hospital, can be significant, particularly during inclement weather.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport offers alternative options, but their reliability and cost must be carefully considered. Residents with asthma should prioritize researching healthcare providers and transportation options before moving to Belsano. Understanding the potential challenges and developing a plan for accessing medical care is essential for managing asthma effectively.

**Moving to Belsano: A Personalized Assessment**

For individuals considering a move to Belsano, a personalized assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. This should include evaluating the frequency of medical appointments, the severity of their asthma, and their tolerance for environmental triggers. Researching the availability of healthcare providers, including specialists and emergency services, is paramount.

Developing a comprehensive transportation plan, encompassing driving routes, public transit options, and backup plans for ride-sharing or medical transport, is essential. Consider the potential impact of weather conditions and traffic congestion on travel times. By carefully weighing these factors, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision about whether Belsano is the right place to call home. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is key to maintaining healthcare access and ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in Belsano.