16834, Drifting, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16834, Drifting, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.81 percent of residents in 16834 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Nittany Medical Center with a distance of 20.31 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Drifting, PA (ZIP Code 16834)

The crisp mountain air of Drifting, Pennsylvania, nestled within Clearfield County, offers a picturesque setting. However, for residents managing asthma, the beauty of this landscape is intertwined with the complexities of healthcare access. This Asthma Score write-up examines the transportation landscape within ZIP Code 16834, evaluating the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals needing to reach medical care, especially concerning asthma management. We will explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this rural community.

The very nature of Drifting's location presents the initial hurdle. Situated amidst rolling hills and forested areas, the community lacks the density of urban centers. This geographical reality directly impacts transportation options. The primary means of getting around involves personal vehicles. The journey to healthcare providers often necessitates travel on state routes and highways, the most critical being Route 879, which serves as the main artery connecting Drifting to larger towns like Clearfield and DuBois.

Drive times are a crucial element of the Asthma Score. A routine appointment at the Penn Highlands Clearfield Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, typically requires a 20- to 30-minute drive via Route 879. This time can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within Drifting. During winter months, snow and ice can extend these travel times, creating a potential crisis for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Further, the drive to DuBois Regional Medical Center, another significant healthcare hub, involves a similar travel time, also utilizing Route 879, and potentially Route 255. These drive times are critical for assessing the ease of access to emergency care and specialized asthma treatments. The distance and road conditions necessitate careful planning and consideration for those with asthma, ensuring they can reach medical assistance promptly when needed.

Public transportation options are limited in Drifting and the surrounding areas. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides bus services, but the routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily focusing on connecting towns and cities. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor for individuals with disabilities, including those who may experience mobility challenges due to asthma symptoms or medication side effects. However, the limited service frequency and potential long wait times make CCATA a less-than-ideal option for urgent healthcare needs.

The CCATA routes serving the area are not specifically designed for frequent trips to medical facilities. The lack of dedicated medical transport routes presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles. This highlights the need for alternative transportation solutions, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to a car.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present but their availability is sporadic and limited in this rural area. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in emergency situations, can be challenging. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially when frequent trips to medical appointments are required. The reliability of ride-sharing for timely access to healthcare is questionable, particularly for those experiencing asthma-related respiratory distress.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with healthcare needs. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, these services are primarily for acute medical crises. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers offer scheduled rides to medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including medical transport services and local private companies.

These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. However, the availability of NEMT can vary, and scheduling appointments often requires advance notice. The cost of these services can also be a factor, especially for frequent appointments.

The Asthma Score for Drifting, PA, reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for individuals managing asthma. The drive times to healthcare facilities, primarily via Route 879, pose a risk, especially during adverse weather conditions.

The lack of readily accessible transportation options can delay access to emergency care and specialized asthma treatments. This can lead to increased morbidity and decreased quality of life for those with asthma. For those considering moving to Drifting, or for current residents, careful consideration of transportation needs is crucial.

The development of improved public transportation options, including more frequent routes and dedicated medical transport services, would significantly enhance healthcare access for residents with asthma. Collaboration between healthcare providers, local government, and transportation agencies is essential to address these challenges.

Furthermore, the promotion of telehealth services could help mitigate the transportation barriers by providing remote access to healthcare consultations and monitoring. The integration of technology can play a vital role in improving asthma management and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

The Asthma Score underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to improve healthcare access in Drifting. This includes expanding transportation options, promoting telehealth services, and ensuring the availability of affordable and reliable medical transportation. By addressing these challenges, the community can create a healthier environment for all residents, particularly those living with asthma. The journey to better healthcare access requires a multi-faceted approach, combining infrastructure improvements, technological advancements, and community-based solutions.