16250, Sagamore, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16250, Sagamore, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

32.75 percent of residents in 16250 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 17.34 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sagamore, PA (ZIP Code 16250)

The crisp mountain air of Sagamore, Pennsylvania, a town nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, offers a certain allure. For individuals managing asthma, however, the promise of tranquility must be weighed against the practical realities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 16250, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely medical attention. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering a move to Sagamore or already residing within its borders.

The most significant factor in determining healthcare access is undoubtedly the proximity to medical facilities. In Sagamore, the nearest hospital is the Penn Highlands Brookville, located approximately 10 miles away. The journey typically involves navigating a combination of local roads and state highways. From the center of Sagamore, the most direct route involves taking **State Route 28** south. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive to Brookville should take around 15 to 20 minutes.

However, the nature of asthma means that time is often of the essence. An asthma attack can escalate rapidly, necessitating immediate medical intervention. Therefore, the reliability of transportation becomes paramount. While the drive to Brookville might seem short, unforeseen delays can significantly impact a patient's well-being.

Another nearby option is the Clarion Hospital, located in Clarion, Pennsylvania. The drive to Clarion requires a longer journey, approximately 30 miles, mostly on **Interstate 80**. This route, while faster in terms of highway travel, can be subject to weather-related delays, especially during the winter months. The journey typically takes around 40 to 45 minutes, but it is a considerable distance when experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Beyond these primary options, specialized care, such as pulmonology or allergy specialists, might necessitate travel to larger cities like Pittsburgh or Johnstown. This significantly increases the transportation burden. The drive to Pittsburgh, primarily via **Interstate 80** and **US-22**, can take upwards of two hours, depending on traffic. Similarly, the journey to Johnstown, utilizing **US-119** and **US-219**, is approximately an hour and a half. These longer distances underscore the importance of reliable transportation and the potential challenges faced by individuals with asthma in Sagamore.

Public transportation options in and around Sagamore are limited. The primary provider is the Jefferson County Transportation Authority, or JCTA. However, the JCTA's services are primarily focused on providing transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Regular bus routes are infrequent and may not be a practical option for urgent medical needs. The JCTA does offer demand-response services, meaning they can be requested, but these require advance booking and may not be available immediately.

The JCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the limited frequency of service and the need for advance booking make public transportation a less-than-ideal solution for managing asthma, especially during an emergency.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is inconsistent. While they might be accessible in Brookville and Clarion, their availability in Sagamore itself is not guaranteed. The reliance on ride-sharing can also be expensive, particularly during peak hours or in response to an emergency. The cost of a ride to the hospital, combined with the potential for longer wait times, could pose a significant barrier to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, like ambulances, are available in Sagamore. Emergency medical services (EMS) are the primary providers of transportation for urgent medical needs. However, the response time of an ambulance can vary depending on the location and the severity of the emergency. The ambulance will transport patients to the nearest appropriate medical facility.

The availability of medical transportation services is crucial, but it is essential to consider the potential delays associated with ambulance transport. The time spent waiting for an ambulance, combined with the travel time to the hospital, can impact patient outcomes.

For individuals considering moving to Sagamore, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. The limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services highlight the importance of personal vehicles. Owning a car is practically a necessity for accessing healthcare, especially in an emergency.

Furthermore, individuals with asthma should explore the availability of home healthcare services. Having access to in-home nursing care can reduce the need for frequent trips to the hospital or doctor's office. This is particularly important for those with severe asthma or those who have difficulty traveling.

The decision to move to Sagamore requires careful consideration of the healthcare landscape. While the town offers a serene environment, the practical challenges of accessing medical care must be addressed. The Asthma Score for Sagamore is moderate. The proximity to the Penn Highlands Brookville offers some reassurance, but the limited transportation options and the potential for delays necessitate proactive planning.

For those with asthma, the best approach involves a multi-pronged strategy. This includes having a reliable personal vehicle, establishing a relationship with a local physician, and understanding the available emergency medical services. It is also crucial to have a clear asthma action plan and to ensure that all necessary medications are readily available.

The allure of Sagamore, the charm of its small-town atmosphere, and the potential for a healthier lifestyle are undeniable. However, for individuals managing asthma, a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges is essential. Understanding the healthcare access limitations is the first step in ensuring a safe and healthy life in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, corner of Pennsylvania.