16837, Glen Richey, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16837, Glen Richey, Pennsylvania is 9 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.25 percent of residents in 16837 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Tyrone with a distance of 22.14 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Glen Richey (ZIP Code 16837)

Glen Richey, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16837), offers a tranquil setting, appealing to those seeking a slower pace of life. However, the allure of rural living necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing asthma. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" for this area, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for managing this chronic respiratory condition. We will examine drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive picture for prospective residents. This information is especially vital for those considering moving to Glen Richey and needing to maintain consistent healthcare.

The primary challenge for residents of Glen Richey lies in its relative isolation. The nearest significant healthcare providers are located in Clearfield, approximately 10 to 15 miles away, depending on the specific destination. Driving is the most common mode of transportation. The primary routes involve navigating Pennsylvania Route 879, a two-lane highway offering scenic views but subject to potential delays during peak hours or inclement weather. Another option is to utilize Interstate 80, which is a faster route, but requires a further distance to access and navigate.

For appointments at Penn Highlands Clearfield, the drive typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. The hospital offers comprehensive services, including specialized respiratory care, crucial for asthma patients. The drive along Route 879 is generally straightforward, but drivers should be mindful of potential congestion near the Clearfield town center. The alternative, using I-80 and then Route 879, may be faster, particularly during rush hour, but adds distance and complexity.

Public transportation options in Glen Richey are limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially in rural areas. Currently, there are no direct routes that serve Glen Richey with frequent service. Individuals with asthma, who may require regular check-ups or urgent care, may find public transit unreliable. The lack of frequent service and potential for delays could exacerbate asthma symptoms, making this option less than ideal. While the CCATA does offer ADA-accessible buses, the limited route coverage and frequency make this feature less impactful for residents of Glen Richey.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clearfield area, but their presence in Glen Richey is less consistent. Availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore risky. The potential for extended wait times or unavailability could pose a significant challenge for asthma patients needing timely access to care. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing makes it a less reliable transportation solution for those managing a chronic condition.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of NEMT can be substantial, and the availability of these services may be limited, particularly for non-emergency situations. Asthma patients may require NEMT if they experience severe exacerbations or have difficulty traveling independently.

The "Asthma Score" for Glen Richey is therefore affected by the limited transportation options. While driving offers the most reliable access to healthcare, the distance and potential for delays should be considered. Public transit is unreliable, ride-sharing services are inconsistent, and medical transport is costly. For individuals with asthma, these factors create potential barriers to healthcare access, which may require careful planning and consideration.

The absence of readily available and reliable transportation options necessitates proactive planning for asthma patients. This may include scheduling appointments strategically, allowing ample travel time, and having backup transportation plans in place. For those moving to Glen Richey, it's imperative to factor in the transportation challenges when assessing their ability to manage their condition effectively.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Glen Richey reflects the challenges of accessing healthcare due to limited transportation infrastructure. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the lack of readily available and reliable transportation options presents a significant hurdle for asthma patients. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and develop strategies to ensure timely access to medical care. This includes considering the impact of weather, traffic, and the availability of alternative transportation solutions. The ability to manage asthma effectively is directly linked to reliable transportation, making it a crucial factor for those considering moving to Glen Richey.