16938, Morris, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16938, Morris, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.27 percent of residents in 16938 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Wellsboro with a distance of 17.61 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 16938

The crisp air of Morris, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16938) holds a certain allure, a promise of rural tranquility. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the realities of this idyllic setting must be carefully weighed against the practicalities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical services, a vital consideration for anyone contemplating a move to Morris. We'll explore the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this specific geographic area.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is, of course, the timely arrival at a medical facility during an exacerbation. The ability to quickly access emergency care, particularly in the event of a severe asthma attack, is paramount. Therefore, the transportation infrastructure becomes a critical determinant of quality of life.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in this rural region. From Morris, the nearest hospital, UPMC Wellsboro, is located approximately 15 miles away. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The primary route involves navigating Route 6, a two-lane highway that can experience slower speeds during peak travel times or inclement weather. Route 6 is the lifeblood of this area, connecting Morris to the larger towns and providing access to essential services. Further travel may involve smaller roads, like the local township roads, which are generally well-maintained but can add to the overall travel time.

For specialist appointments or access to more comprehensive medical facilities, residents often travel to larger cities like Williamsport or Elmira, NY. These trips require significantly more time. Williamsport, approximately 60 miles away, is reachable via Route 15, a major north-south highway. The drive can take around 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Elmira, NY, roughly 40 miles away, can be accessed via Route 15 and then Route 17, or via Route 6. Travel time to Elmira is approximately 1 hour. These longer commutes highlight the potential challenges of healthcare access for residents of Morris, particularly those with chronic conditions like asthma.

Public transportation options in this rural area are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating directly within Morris or offering frequent service to nearby towns. This lack of public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. For individuals with asthma, this limitation poses a serious obstacle to managing their condition effectively.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in this region, but their availability is often sporadic. The frequency of service is dependent on driver availability, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This unreliability makes ride-sharing a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be substantial, particularly for longer distances to specialized medical facilities.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, for non-emergency medical appointments, the availability of medical transport services like Med-Trans or other private ambulance companies is crucial. These services offer scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments, providing a vital link for those who cannot drive themselves. The cost of these services can be a significant factor, and the availability of insurance coverage for medical transport should be thoroughly investigated.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals with disabilities, including those with asthma, have equal access to transportation. While the lack of public transit is a significant barrier, medical transport services are required to comply with ADA regulations, ensuring that vehicles are accessible and that drivers are trained to assist individuals with disabilities.

The decision to move to Morris, Pennsylvania, for an individual with asthma requires a careful assessment of these transportation factors. The drive times to medical facilities, the lack of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to the overall "Asthma Score" for this ZIP code.

The "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 16938 is, therefore, moderately challenging. While the drive to the nearest hospital is relatively short, the lack of public transportation and the limited availability of ride-sharing services pose significant obstacles. The reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services adds to the overall cost and complexity of healthcare access.

For individuals with severe asthma or those who require frequent medical appointments, the challenges of transportation in Morris could be a significant deterrent. It is essential to carefully weigh the benefits of rural living against the potential difficulties of accessing healthcare.

Before making a move to Morris, potential residents should investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services, assess the reliability of ride-sharing options, and consider the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times. They should also explore the possibility of telehealth services, which can provide remote access to medical consultations and monitoring.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 16938 underscores the importance of proactive planning and careful consideration of healthcare access when choosing a place to live. While the rural charm of Morris is undeniable, the practicalities of transportation and healthcare access must be prioritized to ensure the well-being of individuals with asthma. This assessment is vital for anyone considering moving to Morris, helping them make an informed decision regarding their healthcare needs and quality of life.