17019, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17019, Dillsburg, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.76 percent of residents in 17019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center with a distance of 11.40 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Dillsburg (ZIP Code 17019)

The crisp air of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, beckons with small-town charm, but for individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a crucial consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 17019, focusing on commute times, public transit options, and ride-sharing/medical transport availability, ultimately aiming to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for potential residents. The goal is to illuminate the realities of navigating the region, vital information for anyone considering moving to Dillsburg with asthma.

Dillsburg, a borough nestled in York County, presents a unique transportation environment. Unlike sprawling urban centers, the area relies heavily on personal vehicles. While the town itself is relatively compact, the nearest specialized healthcare facilities, particularly those with pulmonology and allergy expertise, are often located in Harrisburg or York. This necessitates understanding the nuances of local transportation, especially when considering asthma management, where timely access to medical care can be life-saving.

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and out of Dillsburg are **Interstate 83 (I-83)** and **U.S. Route 15 (US-15)**. I-83 provides a direct north-south route, connecting Dillsburg to Harrisburg (approximately 20 miles north) and York (approximately 20 miles south). US-15 runs parallel to I-83, offering an alternative route, particularly useful for local travel and avoiding potential traffic congestion on the interstate. Local roads like **South Baltimore Street**, **East Harrisburg Street**, and **North York Street** serve as essential connectors within the borough and to surrounding communities.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. Commuting to UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, a major healthcare provider, via I-83 typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, accessing WellSpan York Hospital via I-83 south requires a similar travel time. During peak hours, especially weekday mornings and evenings, traffic on I-83 can become congested, potentially extending these commute times, a significant concern for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation. Alternative routes, utilizing US-15 or local roads, may offer some relief from traffic, but they often involve navigating more stop signs and traffic lights, which can also add to travel time.

Public transportation options in Dillsburg are limited. The **Rabbit Transit** system, the primary public transit provider for York County, offers bus routes, but their coverage in Dillsburg is sparse. Route 83, while theoretically connecting Dillsburg to Harrisburg, operates on a limited schedule, with infrequent service, particularly on weekends and evenings. This makes relying solely on public transit for routine or urgent healthcare appointments challenging. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on the Rabbit Transit buses should be verified before relying on public transit. Confirming wheelchair lifts and other accessibility measures is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

The Rabbit Transit website (rabbittransit.org) provides detailed route information, schedules, and accessibility details. However, the limited frequency and route coverage present a significant hurdle for individuals with asthma, particularly those needing quick access to emergency care. The absence of a robust public transit network underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Dillsburg, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability often fluctuates based on driver presence and demand. During off-peak hours or in inclement weather, securing a ride can be more difficult and potentially more expensive. For individuals with asthma, the unpredictability of ride-sharing services can be a concern, especially during a sudden asthma attack. Pre-planning and having backup transportation options are essential.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with medical needs. Companies like **MedStar Ambulance** and **AMR (American Medical Response)** provide ambulance services for emergency situations. However, these services are typically reserved for critical medical conditions. For non-emergency transportation to appointments, specialized medical transport providers may offer services, but these can be costly and require advance booking. Researching available medical transport options and understanding insurance coverage for such services is crucial for individuals with asthma.

The healthcare access landscape in Dillsburg presents both opportunities and challenges. While the proximity to Harrisburg and York provides access to a range of healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning. Individuals with asthma must consider the potential for traffic delays, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the costs of medical transport when assessing their healthcare access.

Moving to Dillsburg requires a proactive approach to managing healthcare access. Before relocating, individuals should research local healthcare providers, including pulmonologists and allergists, and assess the ease of reaching their offices. Understanding the traffic patterns on I-83 and US-15, as well as the availability of ride-sharing services, is essential. Furthermore, exploring the possibility of telehealth appointments or home healthcare services can enhance healthcare access.

In conclusion, while Dillsburg offers a pleasant living environment, the transportation infrastructure presents some hurdles for individuals with asthma. The Asthma Score for the area is moderate. The accessibility of healthcare is reliant on personal vehicles, and public transit options are limited. Careful planning, including identifying reliable transportation alternatives and understanding the availability of medical transport services, is crucial for ensuring timely access to healthcare and managing asthma effectively. The decision to move to Dillsburg with asthma should be made with a full understanding of these transportation realities.