15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.67 percent of residents in 15937 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 7.77 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Jerome, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15937)

The air hangs heavy sometimes in Jerome, Pennsylvania, a small borough nestled in the Laurel Highlands. For residents managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up, acting as an "Asthma Score" assessment, explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 15937, focusing on travel times, modes of transit, and accessibility to healthcare facilities. This information is crucial for current residents and those considering moving to Jerome, allowing them to assess the practicality of accessing vital medical care.

The central concern for those with asthma is timely access to medical intervention. A sudden asthma exacerbation demands swift action. The ability to reach a hospital or urgent care facility quickly can mean the difference between a manageable flare-up and a serious medical crisis. Therefore, this assessment will weigh heavily on the speed and reliability of transportation options.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

The primary method of transportation in Jerome is by car. The borough is relatively isolated, and public transit options are limited. The nearest major healthcare provider is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, a journey that will likely involve navigating several roads.

From Jerome, residents would typically begin by heading west on **Jerome Road**, which eventually merges with **Route 56**. This initial stretch is mostly rural, with potential for delays due to weather, especially during the winter months. Once on Route 56, drivers continue towards Johnstown, a drive of approximately 15 miles.

The drive time to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center under normal traffic conditions is estimated to be between 25 and 35 minutes. This estimate assumes clear weather and moderate traffic. However, the journey can be significantly impacted by adverse conditions. Heavy snowfall, ice, or dense fog, common occurrences in the Laurel Highlands, can easily double or triple the drive time, posing a significant challenge for those experiencing an asthma attack.

Alternatively, residents might consider traveling to UPMC Somerset Hospital, located approximately 20 miles south of Jerome. This route would involve taking **Route 219** south. The drive time to Somerset Hospital is similar to that of Conemaugh, around 30 to 40 minutes, again depending on traffic and weather.

**Public Transit Options and Accessibility:**

Public transportation options in and around Jerome are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service in the Johnstown area, but its routes do not directly serve Jerome. Residents needing to use public transit would likely need to arrange for a ride to a CCTA bus stop in a neighboring town, adding significant time and complexity to the journey.

The CCTA does offer some routes that could be relevant for healthcare access. Route 20, for example, services the Johnstown area, including stops near Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center. However, the bus schedule is limited, and the frequency of service may not be sufficient for urgent medical needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a crucial consideration for those with mobility limitations or those who might experience difficulty walking during an asthma flare-up. The CCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long wait times remain significant drawbacks.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area. However, their availability in Jerome itself is less certain. Residents might experience delays in securing a ride, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for those needing assistance. Several companies operate in the region, including LifeFleet Ambulance and Medical Transport. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transport to and from doctor's appointments and other healthcare facilities. They are equipped to handle patients with medical needs and can often provide door-to-door service.

While medical transport services offer a reliable option, they can be expensive. The cost is often covered by insurance, but co-pays and deductibles can still pose a financial burden. Furthermore, arranging medical transport requires advance planning, which may not be feasible during a sudden asthma attack.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Jerome:**

The "Asthma Score" for Jerome, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15937) indicates a mixed bag regarding healthcare access. While the availability of hospitals and urgent care facilities is reasonable, the transportation challenges are significant. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for weather-related delays all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation for those managing asthma.

For individuals considering moving to Jerome, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Those with severe asthma or frequent exacerbations should carefully weigh the potential risks associated with relying on personal vehicles or limited public transit.

The ability to quickly reach a healthcare facility is critical. The distance to the nearest hospital and the potential for delays due to weather or traffic should be carefully considered. Those moving to Jerome might find it beneficial to establish relationships with local medical transport services or to explore the possibility of living closer to a healthcare facility.

Furthermore, individuals with asthma should ensure they have a well-defined asthma action plan and carry their medications at all times. They should also be prepared for potential delays in reaching medical care and know how to manage their asthma symptoms effectively while awaiting assistance.

In conclusion, while Jerome offers a charming rural setting, individuals with asthma must carefully evaluate the transportation challenges associated with accessing healthcare. A proactive approach to managing asthma, including careful planning and the identification of reliable transportation options, is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care and maintaining a good quality of life.