15958, Summerhill, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 15958, Summerhill, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.21 percent of residents in 15958 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 11.11 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summerhill (ZIP Code 15958)

The crisp mountain air of Summerhill, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15958), might seem idyllic, but for individuals managing asthma, the reality of healthcare access is a critical consideration. Assessing the "Asthma Score" for this community requires a deep dive into transportation options, recognizing that the ability to reach medical care directly impacts the quality of life for residents with respiratory conditions. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in the area.

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in and out of Summerhill are Pennsylvania Route 53 and Pennsylvania Route 865. These roads, while offering scenic drives, can present challenges during peak hours or inclement weather. A trip to the nearest major healthcare provider, UPMC Altoona (approximately 30 miles), via Route 53 and US-22, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and road conditions. This time commitment is a significant factor for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation, where timely medical intervention is paramount.

Further complicating matters, the terrain and road conditions, especially during winter, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice can make travel hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to critical care. For those without personal vehicles, this challenge is magnified. The reliance on others, or the availability of alternative transportation, becomes essential.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service, but routes are primarily focused on connecting towns within Cambria County. Service to Altoona, where UPMC Altoona is located, is not a direct route. Individuals would likely need to transfer buses, adding considerable time to their journey. Furthermore, the frequency of service is limited, particularly on weekends and evenings, making it difficult to access urgent care or specialist appointments outside of regular business hours.

The CCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service can still pose a significant barrier for those with mobility limitations or those who need to travel to medical appointments. The practicality of public transit for someone experiencing an asthma attack, or requiring frequent follow-up care, is questionable.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Altoona area, but their presence in Summerhill is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. While ride-sharing can offer a more flexible option than public transit, the cost can be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing, particularly in rural areas, means that securing a ride during an asthma emergency is not always guaranteed.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. Ambulance services are readily available for life-threatening situations. However, NEMT providers, which transport individuals to and from medical appointments, may have limited coverage in the Summerhill area. The availability and cost of these services are crucial factors for individuals who cannot drive themselves or rely on family members for transportation.

When considering moving to Summerhill, individuals with asthma must carefully weigh the transportation challenges against the potential benefits of the community. The beauty of the area, its affordability, and the perceived quality of life are all relevant considerations. However, the reality of healthcare access, particularly the drive times to medical facilities and the limitations of public transportation, cannot be overlooked.

The "Asthma Score" for Summerhill reflects a complex interplay of factors. The drive times to healthcare providers, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. While the availability of medical transport services provides a safety net, the cost and availability of these services must be considered.

For individuals with well-controlled asthma, the transportation challenges might be manageable. However, for those with more severe asthma, or those requiring frequent medical interventions, the lack of readily accessible healthcare could significantly impact their quality of life. The ability to quickly reach a doctor or hospital during an asthma exacerbation is critical.

In evaluating the "Asthma Score" for Summerhill, the following recommendations are essential:

* **Advocate for improved public transportation:** Increased frequency of service, expanded route coverage, and direct connections to major healthcare providers are crucial.
* **Promote ride-sharing accessibility:** Incentivizing ride-sharing services to operate more consistently in the area could improve access to healthcare.
* **Support NEMT services:** Ensuring the availability and affordability of NEMT services is critical for individuals who cannot drive or rely on family members.
* **Educate and empower:** Providing residents with information about transportation options, emergency services, and asthma management resources is essential.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Summerhill is not simply a numerical value. It is a reflection of the community's commitment to ensuring that all residents, including those with chronic health conditions, have access to the healthcare they need. Addressing the transportation challenges, and advocating for improved access, is a crucial step in creating a healthier and more inclusive community.