16879, Winburne, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16879, Winburne, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.57 percent of residents in 16879 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Nittany Medical Center with a distance of 20.69 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Winburne, PA (ZIP Code 16879)

The crisp mountain air surrounding Winburne, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16879) offers a bucolic charm that attracts many seeking a respite from urban life. However, for individuals managing asthma, the serenity of rural living must be balanced with the practicalities of **healthcare access**. This Asthma Score write-up examines the **transportation** landscape surrounding Winburne, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for residents needing regular medical attention. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Winburne**, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers in Winburne revolves around the distance to specialized medical care. The nearest major hospitals and pulmonology specialists are located in State College, approximately 40 miles east. This translates into a significant **transportation** burden, heavily impacting the Asthma Score.

Driving, the most common mode of **transportation**, presents a mixed bag. The primary route to State College is via Interstate 80 East. This highway, though generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to weather, especially during the winter months. The drive, typically taking around an hour, can be stressful for those experiencing an asthma exacerbation. Secondary routes involve Pennsylvania Route 322 East, a slightly longer and more winding option. While scenic, this route is less desirable during inclement weather. Local roads, like Winburne-Woodland Road and Morrisdale-Allport Highway, are primarily used for local travel and offer limited access to healthcare facilities.

Public **transportation** options in Winburne are severely limited. The Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA), which serves State College and the surrounding areas, does not extend its regular bus routes into Winburne. This lack of public **transportation** significantly hinders **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This is a significant negative factor in the Asthma Score.

For individuals unable to drive, the reliance on alternative **transportation** becomes critical. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the State College area, but their availability in Winburne is uncertain and potentially unreliable. The cost of a ride-share to State College for a medical appointment could be substantial, adding a financial strain to the already challenging situation of managing asthma. The unpredictability of ride availability further complicates the process, especially during emergencies.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a potential solution. Companies like AMED Transportation or LifeFleet Ambulance may provide transport to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive. Furthermore, the availability of these services in the Winburne area needs to be confirmed. The Asthma Score considers the limited availability and cost of these options.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available **transportation** options is a crucial consideration. While ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** providers are generally expected to offer accessible vehicles, their availability in Winburne must be verified. For individuals with mobility limitations, the lack of accessible public **transportation** and the potential scarcity of accessible ride-sharing options further exacerbate the challenges of **healthcare access**.

The nearest urgent care facilities are located in Philipsburg, approximately 15 miles west. This is a more accessible option for less severe asthma episodes. However, the quality of care and the availability of specialized equipment may be limited compared to the larger hospitals in State College. Accessing Philipsburg usually involves driving on local roads, which, as previously mentioned, can be difficult during inclement weather.

The availability of pharmacies is another crucial factor in **healthcare access**. Winburne has limited pharmacy options, and residents often need to travel to Philipsburg or State College to fill prescriptions. This adds another layer of complexity to managing asthma, requiring careful planning and coordination. The Asthma Score considers the need for travel to obtain medication.

For individuals **moving to Winburne** with asthma, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a relationship with a pulmonologist in State College before the move is advisable. Understanding the **transportation** options and their limitations is crucial. This includes researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing, medical **transportation**, and the feasibility of relying on family or friends for rides.

The Asthma Score also considers the importance of emergency preparedness. Knowing the location of the nearest emergency room and understanding the **transportation** options for emergencies is critical. This includes having a readily available emergency action plan, including the contact information for emergency services and medical providers.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for Winburne, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16879) reflects the challenges of **healthcare access** in a rural environment. The limited public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the distance to specialized medical care significantly impact the score. While the drive to State College via I-80 East or PA-322 East is manageable, the lack of alternatives and the potential for weather-related delays pose significant hurdles. For individuals considering **moving to Winburne** with asthma, careful consideration of these factors and proactive planning are essential for ensuring adequate **healthcare access** and managing their condition effectively. The absence of robust public **transportation** and the potential reliance on expensive or unreliable alternatives are major drawbacks.