16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16748, Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.35 percent of residents in 16748 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Cole with a distance of 16.76 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shinglehouse, PA (ZIP Code 16748)

Relocating to a new town, especially with a health condition like asthma, necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up focuses on transportation options for residents of Shinglehouse, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16748), considering the challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly for those managing respiratory issues. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport to provide a comprehensive picture for individuals contemplating a move, understanding that ease of access to medical care is paramount for asthma management.

Shinglehouse, nestled in Potter County, offers a tranquil, rural environment. However, its relative isolation significantly impacts healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are a drive away, making reliable transportation a critical consideration for managing asthma symptoms and routine check-ups. The "Asthma Score" here isn’t a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment of the transportation landscape, highlighting strengths and weaknesses to empower informed decision-making.

The primary mode of transportation in and around Shinglehouse is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The town is served by several key roadways. Pennsylvania Route 44, a north-south artery, provides access to Coudersport, the county seat, and beyond. Pennsylvania Route 417, running east-west, connects Shinglehouse to neighboring communities like Ceres and Wellsville, New York. Travel times are highly dependent on weather conditions, which can be severe in the region, particularly during winter months.

Driving to the closest hospital, UPMC Cole in Coudersport, typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, covering about 18 miles via PA-44. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or school bus runs. For specialized pulmonology care or emergency situations, residents may need to travel to larger hospitals in Olean, New York (approximately 45 minutes, 35 miles via PA-417 and NY-417), or to the UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pennsylvania (approximately 2 hours, 110 miles via PA-44 and I-86).

The reliability of personal transportation is crucial for asthma sufferers. Unforeseen circumstances, such as car breakdowns or inclement weather, can create significant challenges in accessing timely medical care. Individuals with asthma should have contingency plans in place, including readily available backup transportation options.

Public transportation options in Shinglehouse and the surrounding areas are limited. Potter County operates a demand-response transit system, Potter County Transportation, offering door-to-door service. However, this service requires advance booking, potentially limiting its usefulness in emergency situations. Furthermore, the availability of these services is subject to operational hours and geographical limitations. ADA accessibility is provided on their vehicles, but the scheduling and booking requirements may present challenges.

For individuals with asthma, relying solely on public transit for routine medical appointments might prove difficult. The need for advance planning, the potential for delays, and the limited service area could create undue stress and anxiety, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms. Careful consideration of the feasibility of public transit is essential when evaluating healthcare access in Shinglehouse.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are virtually non-existent in this rural region. Their presence is sporadic and unreliable, making them an unsuitable option for consistent transportation to medical appointments. This lack of ride-sharing availability underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation arrangements.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) in the region. These services typically offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the distance traveled. Researching and pre-arranging medical transport options is highly recommended for individuals with asthma moving to Shinglehouse.

When considering healthcare access in Shinglehouse, the availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is also critical. The Shinglehouse Volunteer Fire Department provides ambulance services to the community. Response times can vary depending on the location of the emergency and the availability of personnel. In a respiratory emergency, every minute counts, so understanding the EMS system and its capabilities is essential.

For individuals with asthma, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is paramount. This includes identifying the nearest pulmonologists, allergists, and emergency care facilities. Contacting these providers in advance to determine their acceptance of your insurance and the availability of appointments is crucial. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician in the area is also recommended, providing a central point of contact for managing your asthma and coordinating your healthcare needs.

The "Asthma Score" for Shinglehouse, PA (16748) reflects a mixed bag. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and preparedness. The limited public transportation and the absence of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. Medical transport services offer a viable alternative, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered. Moving to Shinglehouse requires a proactive approach to healthcare access. Thorough research, contingency planning, and a strong support network are essential for managing asthma effectively in this rural setting.