16361, Tylersburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16361, Tylersburg, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 16361 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 13.25 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Tylersburg (ZIP Code 16361)

The crisp, clean air of Tylersburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16361) offers a bucolic charm, a haven for those seeking respite from urban clamor. However, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting must be carefully weighed against the realities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up examines the transportation landscape, a critical factor in ensuring timely medical care for residents, particularly those considering moving to Tylersburg. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for informed decision-making.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Tylersburg is, unsurprisingly, the automobile. The primary arteries for reaching medical facilities are Pennsylvania Route 36 (PA-36) and Pennsylvania Route 66 (PA-66). These roads, while scenic, can present challenges. PA-36, heading north, offers access to facilities in Kane and beyond, while PA-66, trending south, leads towards Brookville and its healthcare options. The drive times, however, are not always favorable.

For a routine doctor's appointment in Brookville, a journey of approximately 30 miles via PA-66, expect a drive time of roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The return trip, especially during peak hours, might stretch this time further. Accessing healthcare further afield, such as in DuBois or even the larger medical centers in Erie, necessitates longer drives, potentially exceeding two hours each way. This extended travel time can be particularly problematic during asthma exacerbations, where immediate medical attention is paramount.

Public transportation options in Tylersburg are limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The nearest bus routes, operated by the Jefferson County Transit Authority, primarily serve the towns of Brookville and Punxsutawney. These routes, while offering a lifeline for some, are not designed for easy access to healthcare facilities outside of these immediate areas. Furthermore, the frequency of these buses is limited, and the schedules may not align with medical appointment times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is a critical consideration. While the Jefferson County Transit Authority strives to provide accessible services, the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses and the ease of navigating transfer points should be verified. Individuals with asthma may experience increased difficulty during transfers, especially in inclement weather or during periods of high pollen counts. A thorough investigation into the specific ADA features of the available public transit options is crucial.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the area, though their availability is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, may prove challenging. The cost of ride-sharing can also add to the financial burden of healthcare access, particularly for frequent appointments or emergency situations. Reliance on ride-sharing necessitates careful planning and advance booking, which may not be feasible during sudden asthma flare-ups.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with medical needs. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, but their cost can be substantial. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, such as local ambulance companies and private transportation services, can offer scheduled rides to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the availability of NEMT services in Tylersburg and the surrounding areas should be thoroughly researched, including their service areas, insurance coverage, and waiting times.

The decision to move to Tylersburg, or any rural area, must involve a careful assessment of healthcare access. For individuals with asthma, this assessment should be particularly rigorous. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transportation, and the variability of ride-sharing services create potential barriers to timely medical care. The availability and cost of medical transportation services are also crucial considerations.

Considering the drive times to medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, individuals with asthma should carefully evaluate the potential challenges of accessing healthcare in Tylersburg. Proximity to a reliable primary care physician, access to urgent care facilities, and the availability of specialist care are all critical factors. Furthermore, the presence of a supportive network of family, friends, or community resources can significantly improve healthcare access.

The "Asthma Score" for Tylersburg (ZIP code 16361) is, therefore, a nuanced one. While the air quality may be conducive to respiratory health, the transportation infrastructure presents challenges. Prospective residents with asthma should thoroughly investigate the availability of transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers. A proactive approach to healthcare planning, including establishing a relationship with a local physician and developing an emergency action plan, is essential for successfully managing asthma in this beautiful but geographically isolated community.

The scenic beauty of PA-36 and PA-66, the potential for a quieter lifestyle, and the charm of Tylersburg must be balanced with the practical realities of healthcare access. The decision to move to Tylersburg requires a careful evaluation of individual needs and a proactive approach to healthcare planning. For those with asthma, a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape is paramount to ensuring timely and effective medical care.