17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.12 percent of residents in 17023 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 21.46 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Elizabethville, PA (ZIP Code 17023)

Considering a move to Elizabethville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17023)? For individuals managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up meticulously examines transportation options to medical facilities from Elizabethville, evaluating their accessibility and potential impact on respiratory health. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive overview for informed decision-making.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the journey to healthcare. Elizabethville, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, presents a unique transportation landscape. The primary artery for vehicular travel is **Route 225**, a vital north-south thoroughfare connecting Elizabethville to surrounding towns and cities. **Route 209** offers an alternative route, particularly useful for accessing areas east of Elizabethville. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.

Driving to the nearest hospitals becomes the first point of analysis. The closest major healthcare provider is UPMC Harrisburg, approximately 40 miles south of Elizabethville. The drive typically involves traversing **Route 225** south to **Interstate 81 (I-81)** south, then to **I-83** south, and finally to the hospital. This journey, under optimal conditions, takes around an hour. However, rush hour traffic on **I-81** and **I-83** can significantly extend travel times, impacting the ability to seek timely medical attention.

Another critical healthcare option is Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located roughly 50 miles southwest of Elizabethville. The route involves taking **Route 225** south to **Route 322** west. This route, while less prone to heavy traffic than the I-81 corridor, can still experience delays, particularly on **Route 322** near Harrisburg. The drive time is generally around an hour and fifteen minutes, but again, this is subject to fluctuation based on traffic and weather.

Public transportation options are limited in Elizabethville. The primary public transit provider for the region is Capital Area Transit (CAT). However, CAT's service area primarily covers the Harrisburg metropolitan area, and its routes do not directly extend into Elizabethville. Residents would need to rely on a combination of private transportation to reach a CAT bus stop. This adds significant complexity and time to accessing healthcare, especially for individuals with asthma who may require frequent medical appointments.

While CAT does offer some ADA-accessible buses, the lack of direct routes to Elizabethville makes this feature less relevant for residents. Furthermore, the reliance on multiple modes of transportation increases the potential for exposure to environmental triggers, such as exhaust fumes and allergens, that can trigger asthma attacks. The lack of a readily available public transit system significantly diminishes the Asthma Score for Elizabethville.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Elizabethville area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share to Harrisburg or Hershey can be substantial, making it a less feasible option for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the potential for exposure to allergens within the vehicles, such as pet dander or cigarette smoke, could pose a challenge for individuals with asthma.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be a valuable resource for individuals with asthma who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. However, the cost of NEMT can be significant, and prior arrangements are usually required. The availability of these services in Elizabethville is a positive factor, but their cost and the need for advance booking must be considered.

The overall Asthma Score for Elizabethville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17023) reflects a mixed picture. While the presence of major hospitals within a reasonable driving distance is a positive, the limitations of public transportation and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services significantly impact healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, particularly during peak traffic hours, can increase exposure to environmental triggers, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.

For individuals considering moving to Elizabethville with asthma, careful planning is crucial. Evaluate the frequency of medical appointments and the associated transportation costs. Consider the potential impact of traffic congestion and weather conditions on drive times. Explore the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The Asthma Score highlights the need for proactive measures to ensure adequate healthcare access. This might involve establishing a relationship with a local primary care physician, exploring telehealth options for routine check-ups, and developing a plan for managing asthma symptoms during travel.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Elizabethville requires a thorough assessment of individual needs and priorities. While the area offers the charm of a rural community, the challenges associated with healthcare access must be carefully weighed against the potential benefits. This "Asthma Score" write-up provides the necessary information to make an informed decision, ensuring the well-being of individuals with asthma in this beautiful Pennsylvania town.