16743, Port Allegany, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16743, Port Allegany, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.36 percent of residents in 16743 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 15.74 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Port Allegany, PA (ZIP Code 16743)

Relocating to a new community, especially with a health condition like asthma, demands careful consideration of healthcare access. This analysis, the “Asthma Score,” focuses on transportation options for residents of Port Allegany, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16743), specifically examining the ease of reaching healthcare facilities. The goal is to provide a detailed overview, enabling informed decisions regarding healthcare access and the overall quality of life for those with respiratory sensitivities.

The rural nature of Port Allegany significantly shapes the transportation landscape. Personal vehicles are the dominant mode of transportation. This reliance on cars highlights the importance of understanding drive times, road conditions, and potential traffic bottlenecks. The primary healthcare providers serving the area are located in neighboring towns, necessitating travel along specific routes.

The most direct route to healthcare is often a drive to Olean General Hospital in Olean, New York. This journey, approximately 20 miles north, typically involves traversing **Pennsylvania Route 44 (PA-44)**, a scenic but sometimes winding road. Expect a drive time of around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route then merges with **New York State Route 417 (NY-417)**, leading directly to the hospital.

Another option is to seek care in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles southeast of Port Allegany. This trip utilizes **PA-44** again, but then connects with **U.S. Route 6 (US-6)**, a major east-west artery. Drive times to Coudersport Regional Medical Center average 45 minutes to an hour. Weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly impact travel times on these roads.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit options are limited. The absence of a dedicated public transportation system within Port Allegany presents a significant challenge. The closest semblance of public transportation is the Potter County Transportation System, which offers demand-response service. This means rides must be scheduled in advance, making spontaneous trips to the doctor difficult. Information regarding routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility needs to be directly obtained by contacting Potter County Transportation.

The absence of a robust public transportation system amplifies the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their availability and reliability in rural areas can be inconsistent. Wait times can be longer, and surge pricing may apply during peak hours or inclement weather. Therefore, relying solely on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments may prove challenging.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, offer a specialized solution. Companies such as Life Fleet or other regional medical transport providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. They require advance booking, and costs vary based on distance and service level.

The Asthma Score for Port Allegany reflects the transportation challenges faced by residents seeking healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, poses potential barriers to healthcare access, especially for individuals with asthma. Drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, can be impacted by weather and road conditions.

The potential for prolonged travel times, particularly during winter months, can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Exposure to cold air, changes in air quality, and the stress of travel can trigger asthma attacks. Therefore, careful planning and preparation are crucial for those with asthma.

For those considering moving to Port Allegany, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. This includes understanding the location of healthcare providers, the availability of transportation options, and the potential impact of weather and road conditions on travel times.

The availability of medical transportation services provides a valuable lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to personal vehicles. However, these services require advance planning and may involve additional costs.

The Asthma Score for Port Allegany, therefore, emphasizes the need for proactive planning. Individuals with asthma should establish a clear understanding of their transportation options, including drive times, public transit availability, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Prioritizing healthcare access is paramount. This includes identifying preferred healthcare providers, understanding their hours of operation, and scheduling appointments in advance. It also means developing a contingency plan for unexpected events, such as severe weather or vehicle breakdowns.

The quality of life in Port Allegany, particularly for those with asthma, hinges on the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare. This requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing careful consideration of transportation options, proactive planning, and the utilization of available resources.

The Asthma Score is not just a number; it's a framework for informed decision-making. By understanding the transportation landscape and the available resources, individuals with asthma can navigate the challenges of healthcare access and build a fulfilling life in Port Allegany.

The success of this endeavor hinges on several factors. First, individual awareness is key. Potential residents must conduct thorough research on healthcare facilities, transportation options, and potential environmental triggers. Second, community support is essential. Local organizations and healthcare providers can play a vital role in providing information, resources, and support to individuals with asthma.

Finally, continuous improvement is critical. The Asthma Score is not a static measure. As transportation options evolve and healthcare services expand, the score must be updated to reflect the changing landscape. This ensures that residents of Port Allegany have access to the most accurate and relevant information, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.