16404, Centerville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16404, Centerville, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.21 percent of residents in 16404 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Titusville Hospital with a distance of 8.62 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Centerville (ZIP Code 16404)

Centerville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Erie County, presents a unique landscape for those managing asthma. This write-up, a comprehensive "Asthma Score" analysis, focuses on the critical intersection of transportation and healthcare access within ZIP Code 16404, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Centerville. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, all crucial factors in determining the ease with which asthma sufferers can access essential healthcare.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the challenges and opportunities that transportation presents to individuals with asthma. Efficient and reliable transportation is paramount for timely medical appointments, medication refills, and emergency care. This analysis will examine how well the existing transportation infrastructure in Centerville supports these needs, providing a clear picture of healthcare access.

**Roadways and Drive Times: A Patient's Perspective**

For many Centerville residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is, therefore, essential. The main arteries serving the area are Pennsylvania Route 98 (PA-98), Pennsylvania Route 6 (PA-6), and U.S. Route 6N (US-6N). These roadways connect Centerville to surrounding towns and cities, including Corry, Erie, and Meadville, where significant healthcare providers are located.

Traveling to the nearest hospital, Corry Memorial Hospital, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via PA-98. This short commute is a significant advantage for residents requiring immediate medical attention. However, traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can impact these times.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Erie, a city with a more extensive network of healthcare providers. The journey to UPMC Hamot, a major hospital in Erie, usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour via US-6N and Interstate 86 (I-86). Similarly, accessing Saint Vincent Hospital in Erie would involve a similar drive time. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for those with severe asthma, who may require frequent check-ups or experience sudden exacerbations.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. Potholes, construction, and inclement weather, common in this region, can exacerbate travel times and potentially trigger asthma symptoms due to increased stress or exposure to vehicle exhaust.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Essential Resource**

Public transportation options in Centerville are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) does not directly serve Centerville. However, the Crawford Area Transportation Authority (CATA) provides some limited service to the surrounding areas.

CATA offers fixed-route bus service, but the routes and schedules may not be conducive to frequent healthcare appointments, especially for those with unpredictable needs. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, ensuring equitable access to transportation. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA features should be readily accessible to residents.

Public transit, despite its limitations, can be a vital resource for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. The expansion or improvement of public transit options could significantly improve healthcare access for a wider segment of the Centerville population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option in Centerville. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Residents should assess the reliability of ride-sharing in their area, particularly during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to patients with mobility limitations or those who need medical support during transit. Companies like LifeFleet and MedStar offer medical transport services in the broader Erie County area.

The availability of these services in Centerville is crucial. Residents should research local medical transport providers, understanding their service areas, costs, and the types of medical assistance they offer.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

Healthcare access in Centerville, as in any rural area, is a complex issue. The availability of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and emergency services, is paramount. The proximity of pharmacies for medication refills is also a critical factor.

The "Asthma Score" must consider the distance to these essential resources and the ease with which they can be accessed. The availability of telehealth services can also play a crucial role in improving healthcare access, particularly for those with transportation challenges.

**Moving to Centerville: A Thoughtful Consideration**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Centerville, a thorough assessment of transportation and healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should research the following:

* **Drive times:** To healthcare providers, pharmacies, and emergency services.
* **Public transit:** Availability, routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-sharing:** Reliability and cost of services.
* **Medical transport:** Availability and service area.
* **Healthcare providers:** Proximity and acceptance of new patients.
* **Pharmacy access:** Location and hours of operation.

By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about whether Centerville is the right place for them.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The "Asthma Score" for Centerville, based on this analysis, highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access. While the proximity to Corry Memorial Hospital is a significant advantage, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges.

Improving public transit options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of medical transport are crucial steps towards creating a more accessible healthcare environment for asthma sufferers in Centerville. Continuous monitoring of these factors and proactive efforts to address transportation barriers are essential for ensuring the well-being of all residents, especially those with chronic health conditions.