17033, Hershey, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17033, Hershey, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.65 percent of residents in 17033 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milton S Hershey Medical Center with a distance of 1.77 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17033)

The sweet scent of chocolate and the promise of world-class healthcare beckon those considering a move to Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17033). Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the ease of accessing medical care is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape, crucial for timely and effective healthcare access, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities awaiting residents. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, offering a comprehensive view for prospective residents.

Hershey Medical Center, a beacon of medical excellence, is the primary healthcare destination. Its proximity to the community is a significant advantage. However, the ability to reach it quickly and reliably is vital, especially during an asthma flare-up. This analysis considers the various transportation modes, providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare access within the ZIP code.

**The Road to Recovery: Driving Times and Considerations**

Driving remains a dominant mode of transportation in Hershey. The area is well-served by major roadways, but traffic patterns and distance can significantly impact healthcare access. From most residential areas within 17033, Hershey Medical Center is generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive.

The primary route is via **Hershey Park Drive**, which directly feeds into the medical center's campus. **Chocolate Avenue (Route 422)** offers an alternative, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours and seasonal events at Hersheypark, can lengthen travel times. **Park Avenue** and **East Derry Road** provide additional routes, offering flexibility depending on the origin point within the ZIP code.

For residents living further from the center, such as those in the more rural areas of the ZIP code, drive times might extend to 20 minutes. This variance highlights the importance of considering location when evaluating healthcare access. Road conditions, including winter weather, can also impact travel times, necessitating preparedness and contingency plans.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Viable Option**

Public transportation in Hershey, while present, is not as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas. The **Capital Area Transit (CAT)** system provides bus service, offering a limited but potentially useful option for those without personal vehicles. Route information is available through the CAT website and app.

Several CAT routes serve the Hershey area, including routes that connect to the medical center. However, frequency and route coverage are limited. For instance, a bus might run every hour or two, which could be problematic during a sudden asthma attack.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. CAT buses are equipped with features such as ramps or lifts to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, confirming the specific accessibility features of a particular route and bus is essential.

The efficiency of public transit hinges on factors like route frequency, travel time, and the proximity of bus stops to residences and healthcare facilities. While public transit can be a viable option for some, it might not be the most reliable or time-efficient choice for individuals with asthma, especially during emergencies.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation option. These services are readily available in Hershey, providing on-demand transportation to the medical center. The convenience of ride-sharing is undeniable, particularly for those unable to drive or who prefer not to.

However, ride-sharing costs can fluctuate, and availability might be affected by demand. During peak hours or special events, wait times could increase. It's crucial to factor in these variables when relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access.

Specialized medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, often provided by private companies, offer door-to-door transportation, sometimes including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Brands like **Care Ride** and **Medicaid Transportation** may be available in the area.

Medical transportation services can be a valuable resource for individuals with asthma who require specialized assistance or who have difficulty using other transportation modes. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve additional costs.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

Evaluating healthcare access extends beyond transportation. Proximity to pharmacies, urgent care facilities, and primary care physicians is also critical. Hershey offers a range of healthcare providers, including pharmacies located within the medical center and throughout the community.

Urgent care facilities are available for immediate medical needs. Primary care physicians are essential for managing asthma and providing ongoing care. The availability of these services within a reasonable distance from residential areas is a crucial factor in healthcare access.

**Moving to Hershey: A Balanced Approach**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Hershey, a comprehensive assessment of transportation options is essential. While driving offers the most direct and flexible access to healthcare, public transit and ride-sharing services provide alternative solutions.

The decision to move should be based on a holistic evaluation of individual needs and preferences. Consider the following:

* **Proximity to Hershey Medical Center:** The closer, the better.
* **Availability of a personal vehicle:** Driving offers the most control.
* **Reliability of public transit:** Assess routes, frequency, and ADA accessibility.
* **Cost and availability of ride-sharing services:** Consider peak-hour surcharges.
* **Potential need for medical transportation:** Explore options and costs.
* **Proximity to pharmacies and urgent care facilities:** Ensure easy access.

Hershey offers a desirable lifestyle, combining the charm of a small town with access to world-class healthcare. By carefully evaluating transportation options and healthcare resources, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision and enjoy the sweet life in Hershey. The Asthma Score, therefore, is not just about transportation; it's about empowering informed choices, ensuring that healthcare access is a priority.