16505, Erie, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16505, Erie, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.57 percent of residents in 16505 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.75 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Millcreek Community Hospital with a distance of 3.54 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 16505

The quest for optimal healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like asthma, necessitates a thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape. This write-up delves into the intricacies of commuting to healthcare facilities within ZIP Code 16505, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Erie, PA, and seeking to understand their healthcare access.

ZIP Code 16505, encompassing a significant portion of Erie, Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The ability to reach healthcare providers efficiently is paramount for asthma sufferers, who require timely access to medication, check-ups, and emergency care. This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the available transportation options, enabling informed decisions about healthcare access.

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Erie. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities include Interstate 90 (I-90), connecting the city to the east and west, and Interstate 79 (I-79), providing north-south access. Pennsylvania Route 5 (also known as West 6th Street and East 6th Street) serves as a vital east-west thoroughfare, while Pennsylvania Route 8 (Peach Street) offers a major north-south route. Local roads such as State Street, Parade Street, and Buffalo Road further facilitate movement within the city.

Drive times to major healthcare providers in 16505 can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. During peak hours, congestion can impact travel times, particularly on major routes like Peach Street and 12th Street. For instance, a drive from the western edge of 16505 to UPMC Hamot Hospital, a major healthcare provider, might take 15-20 minutes under normal conditions, but could extend to 30 minutes or more during rush hour. Similarly, reaching Saint Vincent Hospital, located closer to the city center, could take 10-15 minutes from the eastern side of the ZIP code.

Public transportation, provided by the Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA), offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Several bus routes service the 16505 area, providing access to healthcare facilities. Route 6, for example, runs along West 26th Street and connects to the downtown area, where many medical offices and hospitals are located. Route 12, traveling along Peach Street, offers another vital link, providing access to a significant concentration of healthcare providers.

The EMTA strives to provide accessible transportation. All EMTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. Furthermore, the EMTA offers a paratransit service, known as "EMTA Access," for individuals who cannot use regular bus service due to a disability. This service requires advance reservations and provides door-to-door transportation, ensuring access to healthcare appointments for those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Erie, offering another option for transportation to healthcare facilities. These services provide on-demand transportation, allowing users to request a ride through a smartphone app. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for individuals who need a ride at unusual hours or who prefer not to drive. However, availability and pricing can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transportation to and from doctor appointments, dialysis treatments, and other medical appointments. Several medical transportation companies operate in the Erie area, offering various levels of service, from basic transportation to specialized medical transport with trained personnel.

Choosing the right transportation method depends on individual circumstances. For those with personal vehicles, driving offers the most flexibility and control over travel times. Public transportation provides a cost-effective alternative, particularly for those living near bus routes. Ride-sharing offers on-demand convenience, while medical transportation services cater to specific healthcare needs.

When considering moving to Erie, PA, and assessing healthcare access in 16505, it's essential to factor in the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation options, and the specific needs of the individual. Asthma sufferers must carefully consider the accessibility of emergency care, the ease of reaching regular check-ups, and the potential impact of transportation delays on their health.

The location of healthcare facilities within the ZIP code is a critical factor. UPMC Hamot Hospital and Saint Vincent Hospital are the primary hospitals serving the 16505 area, offering comprehensive medical services, including specialized asthma care. Numerous physician offices, clinics, and urgent care centers are also located within the ZIP code, providing convenient access to healthcare services.

Furthermore, the availability of pharmacies within the 16505 area is crucial for asthma sufferers, ensuring prompt access to medication. Numerous pharmacies, including chain pharmacies and independent pharmacies, are located within the ZIP code, providing convenient access to prescription medications and other healthcare products.

The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is critical to ensuring consistent and timely healthcare access. Understanding drive times, public transit routes, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. This comprehensive assessment of transportation options within ZIP Code 16505 aims to provide valuable insights for individuals with asthma and anyone considering moving to Erie. The integration of these transportation options ensures healthcare access.