16508, Erie, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16508, Erie, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.83 percent of residents in 16508 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Saint Vincent Hospital with a distance of 0.92 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 16508

The quest for optimal healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma, is a critical factor when considering a move to a new locale. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for ZIP Code 16508 in Erie, Pennsylvania, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability, painting a detailed picture for those prioritizing respiratory health.

Erie, nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The city's layout and transportation infrastructure directly influence the ease with which residents, especially those with asthma, can reach medical appointments and emergency care. This analysis aims to illuminate the practical realities of accessing healthcare in 16508, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways impacting healthcare access in 16508 are Interstate 90 (I-90), connecting Erie to major east-west corridors, and Interstate 79 (I-79), providing north-south access. Pennsylvania Route 5 (also known as West 6th Street) and Pennsylvania Route 8 (also known as Peach Street) are crucial arteries within the city.

Driving to the major healthcare providers in Erie, such as UPMC Hamot and AHN Saint Vincent Hospital, from various points within 16508, can vary significantly based on traffic and time of day. Rush hour, typically between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can significantly extend commute times. Expect a 10- to 20-minute drive to UPMC Hamot, located near downtown, depending on the starting point within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. AHN Saint Vincent Hospital, situated further south, may take 15 to 25 minutes.

Navigating these routes requires attention to weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, when snow and ice can dramatically impact drive times and road safety. The presence of readily available parking at these facilities is also a consideration.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Erie MetroErie Metropolitan Transit AuthorityMetropolitan Transit Authority (EMTA) operates public transportation within Erie County, including routes that serve 16508. Several bus routes are relevant for healthcare access, including routes that connect to UPMC Hamot and AHN Saint Vincent Hospital.

Specific routes to investigate include those that travel along major thoroughfares like West 6th Street and Peach Street. However, the frequency of these routes and the potential for extended travel times must be considered. The EMTA website provides detailed route maps and schedules.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial factor. The EMTA offers ADA-compliant buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating. However, potential riders should confirm the availability of these features on specific routes and plan accordingly. The impact of weather on bus schedules and the potential for delays should also be factored into the assessment.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Erie and offer an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. These services can provide convenient transportation to healthcare appointments, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to.

However, the availability of ride-sharing services may vary depending on the time of day and demand. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand should also be considered.

Medical transport services specifically cater to individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the Erie area, including local and regional providers.

These services can be particularly valuable for individuals with asthma who may require assistance with mobility or who need a more comfortable and controlled environment during transport. Researching the specific services offered by these providers and their associated costs is essential.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Erie:**

The "Asthma Score" for 16508 reflects a nuanced picture. While Erie offers multiple healthcare providers, the ease of access depends heavily on individual circumstances, including the ability to drive, reliance on public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport.

The relative isolation of Erie, compared to larger metropolitan areas, means that specialized respiratory care might necessitate travel to other cities. This factor should be weighed when evaluating the overall healthcare landscape.

For individuals with asthma, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential when contemplating a move to Erie. Thoroughly researching the proximity of healthcare providers to potential residences, evaluating the feasibility of public transit options, and understanding the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services are critical steps.

The quality of life for someone with asthma hinges on predictable and reliable access to healthcare. By carefully evaluating the transportation options available in 16508, prospective residents can make informed decisions, ensuring they can readily access the care they need.