16749, Smethport, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16749, Smethport, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.97 percent of residents in 16749 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 21.34 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Smethport, PA (ZIP Code 16749)

Considering a move to the charming, historic borough of Smethport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16749)? Perhaps you're drawn to its tranquil setting, close-knit community, and affordable living. However, if you or a loved one manages asthma, a critical factor in your decision-making process should be healthcare access, specifically the ease of reaching medical facilities equipped to handle asthma-related emergencies and ongoing care. This "Asthma Score" write-up will delve into the transportation landscape of Smethport, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and other transportation services, ultimately assessing the accessibility of healthcare for asthma patients.

Smethport, nestled in McKean County, presents a unique transportation challenge. The borough's rural character means sprawling distances and limited public transportation. Personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Therefore, assessing drive times to medical facilities is paramount.

The primary route for accessing healthcare from Smethport involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving east on Route 6 leads to the UPMC Cole Memorial Hospital in Coudersport, approximately a 25-30 minute drive, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This hospital offers comprehensive services, including an emergency department and respiratory care, vital for asthma management. The drive is generally straightforward, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and road conditions, making it crucial to factor in potential delays.

Alternatively, heading west on Route 6 provides access to facilities in Bradford, Pennsylvania. The drive to Bradford Regional Medical Center takes roughly 30-40 minutes. Bradford offers a wider range of specialists and advanced medical technologies, including pulmonary specialists, potentially offering more specialized asthma care. This route also involves navigating Route 6, with similar weather-related considerations.

Beyond these primary hospitals, access to specialized asthma care may require travel to larger cities such as Erie, Pennsylvania, or Buffalo, New York. The drive to Erie, utilizing Interstate 86 and Interstate 90, is approximately a 2-hour and 15-minute journey. Buffalo, accessible via Route 6 and Interstate 86, is about a 2-hour and 30-minute drive. These longer distances underscore the importance of proactive asthma management and emergency preparedness in Smethport.

Public transportation options in Smethport are extremely limited. The McKean County Transit Authority (MCTA) provides public transportation, but its services are primarily demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While the MCTA offers ADA-accessible vehicles, the routes and schedules are not designed for frequent trips to medical appointments. The limited frequency and availability of MCTA services significantly impact the healthcare access for asthma patients who may not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive. This limitation adds a layer of complexity to managing asthma, necessitating careful planning and reliance on other transportation alternatives.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Smethport or the surrounding areas. This absence further restricts transportation options, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles. Therefore, the reliance on personal vehicles, or pre-arranged transportation, becomes even more critical for accessing healthcare.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, may offer a solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare, often contracted by insurance providers, can provide transportation to medical appointments. However, the availability and coverage of these services depend on the individual's insurance plan and the specific needs of the patient. The eligibility criteria and limitations of these services must be carefully investigated.

The impact of Smethport's transportation landscape on healthcare access for asthma patients is significant. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and ride-sharing options, creates potential barriers. The drive times to hospitals, particularly during inclement weather, can be challenging. The lack of readily available transportation services necessitates proactive planning, emergency preparedness, and a strong support network.

When considering moving to Smethport with asthma, it is crucial to assess the following: the severity of the asthma, the need for specialized care, and the availability of a reliable transportation plan. Establishing a relationship with a local primary care physician and understanding the local emergency response system are vital. Furthermore, investigating the availability of medical transportation services and understanding insurance coverage for such services is essential.

In conclusion, while Smethport offers a peaceful and affordable lifestyle, healthcare access for asthma patients presents unique challenges. The "Asthma Score" for Smethport, considering transportation options, drive times, and the availability of public and private transportation, is moderate. While hospitals are within reasonable driving distance, the limitations in public transit and ride-sharing services, coupled with the potential for weather-related delays, require careful consideration and proactive planning for effective asthma management. A comprehensive understanding of the local transportation landscape and a well-defined healthcare access strategy are crucial for individuals with asthma considering a move to Smethport.