17028, Grantville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17028, Grantville, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.54 percent of residents in 17028 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milton S Hershey Medical Center with a distance of 8.07 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Grantville, PA (ZIP Code 17028)

The crisp air of Grantville, Pennsylvania, nestled in the rolling hills of Dauphin County, might seem idyllic. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This write-up explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 17028, assessing the accessibility of asthma-related healthcare services. We'll analyze drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation modes to determine a comprehensive "Asthma Score" for this community. This is especially relevant for anyone considering moving to Grantville, who must understand the practicalities of healthcare access.

Grantville itself is a small, predominantly rural community. The primary healthcare providers catering to asthma patients are located in nearby towns and cities. This geographical reality immediately elevates the importance of transportation. The ability to quickly and reliably reach doctors, specialists, and pharmacies is paramount for effective asthma management. The Asthma Score, therefore, will reflect the ease with which these vital services can be reached.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For many residents, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The central artery connecting Grantville to larger healthcare hubs is Interstate 81. This major north-south highway provides relatively swift access to Harrisburg, the state capital, and Hershey, home to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

Travel times on I-81 are generally predictable, but traffic congestion during peak hours can significantly impact commute times. Rush hour, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, can add 15-30 minutes to a trip to Harrisburg or Hershey.

From Grantville, the drive to Hershey Medical Center, a major provider of respiratory care, is approximately 15-20 minutes under normal conditions. Harrisburg, with its numerous clinics and specialist offices, is about a 25-35 minute drive. Route 743, a secondary road, offers an alternative route to Hershey, but it’s often slower due to traffic lights and lower speed limits. Route 39 provides another option, connecting Grantville to Hershey and surrounding areas.

The condition of the roads, especially during winter months, can pose challenges. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, necessitating extra caution and potentially delaying appointments. This is a crucial factor in the Asthma Score calculation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Grantville and the surrounding areas are limited. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system, which primarily serves the Harrisburg metropolitan area, does not have extensive routes that directly serve Grantville.

While some CAT routes may extend into nearby towns, the frequency of service is low, and the routes are often circuitous. The closest CAT bus stop to Grantville would likely require a drive to a park-and-ride location. The limited availability of public transit significantly affects the Asthma Score, especially for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for any public transit system. CAT buses are equipped with features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the limited reach of the system and the potential need for transfers can make using public transit a challenging option for some asthma patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Expanding Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. While availability in Grantville may be less consistent than in larger urban areas, these services can provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments. The cost, however, can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. The cost and availability of these services will influence the Asthma Score.

**Pharmacies and Healthcare Access**

Access to pharmacies is a critical component of asthma management. Grantville has a few local pharmacies, but the larger chain pharmacies, like CVS and Walgreens, are located in nearby towns. The ability to quickly and easily pick up prescriptions is essential for managing asthma symptoms.

Beyond pharmacies, access to specialized asthma care is also important. The Hershey Medical Center is a major healthcare provider in the area, with specialist clinics that offer comprehensive asthma care. The proximity to this facility is a positive factor in the Asthma Score.

**Calculating the Asthma Score**

The Asthma Score will be a composite measure, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** Average drive time to the nearest major healthcare provider (Hershey Medical Center) and the nearest pharmacy.
* **Public Transit:** Availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Proximity to pharmacies and ease of prescription refills.
* **Road Conditions:** Impact of weather and road conditions on transportation.

Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its importance to asthma patients. A higher score indicates better access to healthcare.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Grantville**

Grantville, while offering a tranquil environment, presents certain challenges for individuals managing asthma. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles underscore the importance of careful planning. The Asthma Score, when calculated, will reflect the overall ease of access to healthcare services.

For those considering moving to Grantville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements is crucial. While the proximity to Hershey Medical Center is a significant advantage, the limitations of public transit and the potential impact of road conditions must be carefully considered. Understanding the transportation landscape is a vital step in ensuring effective asthma management and a successful transition to life in Grantville. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers additional options, but their cost and reliability must be factored into the overall assessment. The final Asthma Score will provide a valuable tool for individuals to evaluate the suitability of Grantville as a place to live, considering the crucial factor of healthcare access.