17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.67 percent of residents in 17021 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 17.06 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in East Waterford (ZIP Code 17021)

The crisp, clean air of East Waterford, Pennsylvania, a haven nestled in the heart of Juniata County, offers a bucolic charm that beckons those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of rural living must be weighed against the practicalities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 17021, assessing the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services, particularly for those requiring regular asthma care. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering a move or already residing in this serene community.

East Waterford, a small unincorporated community, is primarily accessible by car. The primary artery is **Route 75**, a north-south thoroughfare that connects to the larger regional network. Travel times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor for asthma sufferers. The nearest urgent care facilities and primary care physicians are located in Mifflintown, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via Route 75. These facilities are essential for managing asthma exacerbations and routine check-ups.

For more specialized care, the drive to larger hospitals and pulmonology specialists becomes a significant consideration. **Geisinger Lewistown Hospital**, located in Lewistown, is about a 30-40 minute drive, mostly via **Route 322**. This hospital offers comprehensive respiratory care, including pulmonology consultations, diagnostic testing, and inpatient treatment. The journey can be challenging during inclement weather or peak traffic hours, potentially impacting the timely access to care during an asthma emergency.

Further afield, **UPMC Harrisburg Hospital** in Harrisburg presents a more extensive range of specialized services. The commute, however, is considerably longer, typically taking 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, primarily utilizing **Route 322** and then the **US-322 E**. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning and consideration for individuals with severe asthma, especially when considering the potential for traffic delays or unexpected medical needs.

Public transportation options in East Waterford are limited. Juniata County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. However, the **Juniata County Transportation Authority (JCTA)** provides demand-response transportation services. This service is available to residents of all ages and abilities, including those with disabilities. To utilize the JCTA, riders must schedule their trips in advance. While this service offers a lifeline for those without personal vehicles, the limited service hours and the need for pre-planning may pose challenges for individuals requiring immediate medical attention. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in East Waterford. This lack of ride-sharing options further underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or the JCTA for transportation to healthcare appointments. The absence of these services can be a significant barrier for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a car.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the area. Ambulance services are dispatched for emergency situations, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. NEMT services, often offered by private companies or healthcare providers, offer scheduled transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, such as doctor's visits or therapy sessions. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves and may not be able to utilize public transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered when assessing healthcare access.

The decision to move to East Waterford, or any rural area, requires careful consideration of healthcare access, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the absence of ride-sharing services all contribute to a potentially challenging transportation landscape.

The **Asthma Score** for East Waterford, therefore, is influenced by several factors. The relatively short drive times to urgent care and primary care in Mifflintown provide a degree of convenience. However, the longer travel times to Lewistown and Harrisburg for specialized care and the limited public transit options create a higher barrier to healthcare access. The lack of ride-sharing services and the reliance on pre-scheduled transportation options further complicate the picture.

The **Juniata County Transportation Authority (JCTA)** is a vital resource for those without personal vehicles. However, the need for advance scheduling and the limited service hours can be a challenge, especially during asthma emergencies. The availability of medical transportation services, while essential, adds to the overall cost of healthcare.

For individuals with well-controlled asthma, the manageable drive times to nearby healthcare facilities and the availability of medical transport may be sufficient. However, for those with more severe asthma or frequent exacerbations, the longer travel times to specialized care and the limited transportation options could present a significant disadvantage.

When considering a move to East Waterford, individuals with asthma should thoroughly research the availability and cost of medical transportation services. They should also establish a clear plan for managing asthma emergencies, including identifying the nearest urgent care facilities and understanding the procedures for accessing ambulance services.

Moving to a rural area like East Waterford offers a unique lifestyle, characterized by natural beauty and a slower pace of life. However, individuals with asthma must prioritize healthcare access when making such a move. Careful planning, proactive communication with healthcare providers, and a thorough understanding of the local transportation landscape are essential for ensuring timely and effective asthma management. The "Asthma Score" for East Waterford reflects the balance between the community's tranquility and the challenges of navigating the healthcare system.