17034, Highspire, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17034, Highspire, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.12 percent of residents in 17034 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Pinnacle Hospitals with a distance of 5.64 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Highspire (ZIP Code 17034)

For individuals managing asthma, the ease of **healthcare access** is paramount. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical professionals, pharmacies, and specialized care providers directly impacts quality of life and disease management. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 17034 (Highspire, Pennsylvania), examines the **transportation** landscape and its implications for asthma sufferers, providing an "Asthma Score" based on accessibility considerations. This information is particularly relevant for those **moving to Highspire**, seeking to understand the practicalities of accessing medical care.

Highspire, a small borough nestled in Dauphin County, presents a unique challenge. Its location, while offering a sense of community, necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options. The primary mode of travel for most residents is the personal vehicle. This reliance on cars significantly influences the Asthma Score, as it impacts drive times, particularly during peak hours, and introduces potential stressors related to traffic congestion.

Driving to healthcare appointments is the most direct route for most Highspire residents. The primary artery for north-south travel is **Interstate 83 (I-83)**, providing relatively quick access to Harrisburg, the county seat, and its concentration of healthcare facilities. However, I-83 can experience heavy traffic, especially during morning and evening commutes, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to increased vehicle emissions and stress. The **drive time** to UPMC Harrisburg, a major hospital, can range from 15 to 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Alternatively, **Route 322** offers a more direct route to Harrisburg, bypassing I-83 in some areas. This route, however, is a two-lane highway with frequent stoplights and potential for slower travel times. **Drive times** to the same hospital via Route 322 can vary from 20 to 40 minutes. Smaller roads, such as **Highspire Road** and **South Harrisburg Street**, provide local connectivity but are less efficient for longer journeys.

For individuals requiring specialized care, the **drive times** increase. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a regional center for advanced medical treatments, is approximately a 45-minute to one-hour drive via I-83 or Route 322, depending on traffic. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier for those experiencing acute asthma exacerbations.

Public **transportation** options in Highspire are limited, impacting the Asthma Score negatively. Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service within the Harrisburg metropolitan area. However, service to Highspire is infrequent, with limited routes and schedules. The closest CAT bus stop to Highspire is located along **Route 230**, and the frequency of service is not ideal for regular medical appointments. Information on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, is available on the CAT website, but the limited route options still present a challenge.

The lack of robust public **transportation** significantly reduces the Asthma Score. For individuals who cannot drive, or who prefer not to, reliance on public transit can lead to prolonged travel times and increased exposure to environmental triggers, potentially worsening asthma symptoms. The need to transfer between routes and wait for buses can also be physically demanding, further impacting those with breathing difficulties.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to public transit. However, the availability of these services in Highspire can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing provides a more direct route than public **transportation**, its reliability and affordability are crucial considerations.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require prior arrangements and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as insurance coverage. The availability and responsiveness of these services are vital for individuals who are unable to drive or utilize other **transportation** options.

The Asthma Score for Highspire reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public **transportation** options, presents a mixed picture. While driving offers relatively quick access to healthcare facilities, the potential for traffic congestion and the absence of reliable alternatives for those unable to drive negatively impact the score.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical **transportation** provides some relief, but their reliability, cost, and eligibility requirements must be carefully considered. For individuals **moving to Highspire**, a thorough assessment of their personal **transportation** needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Planning for potential delays, exploring alternative **transportation** options, and establishing relationships with local healthcare providers are essential steps in ensuring effective asthma management.

The Asthma Score for Highspire would be improved by increased investment in public **transportation**, including more frequent bus routes and expanded service areas. Promoting ride-sharing and medical **transportation** options, as well as advocating for improved traffic flow on major roadways, would also contribute to a more favorable score. The overall goal is to create a healthcare environment that is accessible, reliable, and supportive for all residents, particularly those managing chronic conditions like asthma.