16946, Tioga, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 16946, Tioga, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.63 percent of residents in 16946 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Wellsboro with a distance of 14.10 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16946

The crisp air of Tioga, Pennsylvania, nestled within the rolling hills of the Northern Tier, offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the tranquility of rural living hinges on a critical factor: **healthcare access**. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP code 16946, assessing its impact on those with asthma, and providing an "Asthma Score" based on the ease and reliability of reaching essential medical care. This assessment considers various **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit, offering a nuanced perspective for anyone **moving to Tioga** or seeking to understand the region's healthcare accessibility.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 16946 is the private vehicle. Owning a car grants the most flexibility and control over travel times, a crucial advantage for those with asthma. The primary route to healthcare facilities involves navigating the network of highways and roads.

The most direct route to the nearest hospital, UPMC Wellsboro, located approximately 20 miles away, entails utilizing Pennsylvania Route 6 (PA-6) East. This two-lane highway, known for its scenic beauty, can become congested during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. PA-6 is generally well-maintained, but winter weather, common in this region, can pose significant challenges, requiring careful planning and potentially delaying appointments. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Alternatively, residents might opt to travel south on PA-287, then east on PA-6. This route, while slightly longer, offers a different perspective and avoids some of the potential congestion on PA-6. However, it too is susceptible to weather-related delays. The secondary route adds about 10-15 minutes to the journey.

For routine appointments with specialists or access to a wider range of services, residents may need to travel further afield, such as to Guthrie Troy Community Hospital (approximately 45 miles) or to larger medical centers in Elmira, New York (approximately 50 miles). These longer distances necessitate more careful planning, considering the potential for fatigue, weather delays, and the need for medication refills. The journey to these locations requires using a combination of PA-6, US-15, and other local roads.

Public **transportation** options in 16946 are extremely limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals with asthma who may not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. There is no dedicated public bus system serving the immediate area. This lack of public transit severely restricts **healthcare access** for those reliant on alternative modes of transport.

The absence of a robust public transit system is a major factor impacting the Asthma Score. Individuals with asthma may find it difficult to attend regular checkups, access specialist care, or manage emergency situations without a reliable **transportation** alternative. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing public transit further compounds the challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in the Tioga area. This eliminates a potentially convenient option for **transportation** to medical appointments. The absence of these services further isolates residents who lack personal vehicles.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those provided by ambulance companies or specialized non-emergency medical transport providers, offer an essential lifeline for individuals with asthma. These services are crucial for emergency situations and for transporting patients to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and long wait times could be an issue, especially in rural areas.

The Asthma Score for 16946 reflects the challenges and limitations of **transportation** options available. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit and ride-sharing, and the potential limitations of medical **transportation** services all contribute to a less-than-ideal score.

**Asthma Score Breakdown:**

* **Personal Vehicle:** High (Provides the most flexibility but is dependent on weather and driving ability).
* **Public Transit:** Very Low (Non-existent).
* **Ride-Sharing:** Very Low (Unavailable).
* **Medical Transportation:** Moderate (Availability and cost may vary).

**Overall Asthma Score: Fair to Poor**

This score underscores the importance of careful consideration for individuals with asthma contemplating a move to Tioga. While the rural setting offers appealing lifestyle benefits, the limitations in **transportation** significantly impact **healthcare access**. Planning is crucial.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity to healthcare:** When choosing a residence, consider the proximity to UPMC Wellsboro or other healthcare facilities.
* **Maintain a reliable vehicle:** Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped for all weather conditions.
* **Establish a network of support:** Identify friends, family, or neighbors who can provide **transportation** assistance.
* **Explore medical **transportation** options:** Research and pre-arrange medical **transportation** services for non-emergency appointments.
* **Consider telemedicine:** Utilize telehealth options for routine appointments and medication refills to minimize travel.

For individuals with asthma, moving to Tioga requires proactive planning. The beauty of the region must be balanced with the realities of **healthcare access**. By understanding the **transportation** landscape and proactively addressing its challenges, individuals can successfully manage their asthma while enjoying the benefits of rural living.