16724, Crosby, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16724, Crosby, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.78 percent of residents in 16724 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 20.90 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Crosby, PA (ZIP Code 16724)

The crisp air of Crosby, Pennsylvania, nestled within the embrace of the Allegheny National Forest, offers a certain allure. However, for individuals managing asthma, the beauty of this rural haven must be carefully weighed against the realities of healthcare access. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score" write-up, explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 16724, focusing on the critical journey to healthcare facilities. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Crosby, offering a vital perspective on the practicalities of managing asthma in this specific location.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to reach medical professionals promptly and reliably. In Crosby, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare appointments is undeniably the personal vehicle. The geography of the area dictates this, with limited public transportation options. The main arteries serving Crosby are Pennsylvania Route 6 (PA-6), a vital east-west corridor, and Pennsylvania Route 346 (PA-346), which provides north-south access.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a significant consideration. The closest hospital is UPMC Kane, approximately 15 miles east of Crosby, typically a 20-30 minute drive via PA-6. This journey, while relatively short, can be impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can significantly extend travel times, posing a challenge for those experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

For specialized care, the journey expands. Accessing larger medical centers like Olean General Hospital in Olean, New York, necessitates a drive of approximately 40 miles via PA-6 and Interstate 86 (I-86), a journey that can take an hour or more, depending on traffic and border crossing delays. Similarly, travel to Erie, Pennsylvania, for specialized pulmonology or allergy services, is a considerable undertaking, requiring a drive of roughly 100 miles, primarily on I-86 and Interstate 79 (I-79), translating to a travel time of at least two hours.

Public transportation options in Crosby are extremely limited. The Potter County Transportation Authority (PCTA) provides some demand-response services, but these are generally geared towards senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. The PCTA’s routes are not specifically designed to cater to frequent medical appointments. Scheduling a ride through the PCTA requires advance notice, which may not be feasible during an asthma attack. Furthermore, the PCTA's fleet may not be equipped with the specific features necessary for individuals with severe asthma, such as air filtration systems.

The absence of robust public transportation underscores the dependence on personal vehicles. This reliance highlights the importance of reliable vehicle maintenance and the potential need for backup transportation plans. Friends, family, or neighbors become critical support systems in this scenario.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Crosby and the surrounding rural areas. The limited population density and geographic isolation make these services economically unviable. This absence further restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Medical transportation services are a potential lifeline for individuals unable to drive themselves. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically cater to individuals requiring transport to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

One notable provider is STAT MedEvac, which offers air medical transport in emergency situations. While critical for severe asthma exacerbations, this service is reserved for life-threatening situations and is not a viable option for routine appointments. Other NEMT providers operating in the area include local ambulance services and private companies specializing in patient transport.

These NEMT providers typically require advance booking, and the cost can be substantial, especially for longer distances. Insurance coverage for NEMT services varies, and patients should carefully investigate their policy's provisions.

For individuals moving to Crosby with asthma, the Asthma Score is significantly impacted by the transportation challenges. The lack of public transportation, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning.

The Asthma Score is influenced by the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited availability of alternative transportation options, and the potential costs associated with medical transportation. Individuals with severe asthma should consider the implications of these factors when evaluating the suitability of Crosby as a place to live.

The remote location, while offering natural beauty, presents a trade-off. The journey to healthcare facilities requires foresight, preparedness, and a robust support network. The Asthma Score, therefore, reflects a moderate level of accessibility, with a strong emphasis on the need for proactive planning and contingency measures.

Healthcare access in Crosby, therefore, is inextricably linked to transportation. The ability to drive, or to secure reliable transportation, is paramount. Those considering moving to Crosby with asthma must carefully assess their ability to navigate this transportation landscape, ensuring they have a comprehensive plan for managing their healthcare needs. The beauty of Crosby is undeniable, but the realities of healthcare access must be fully understood before making the move. The Asthma Score, in this context, is a critical tool for informed decision-making.