17035, Honey Grove, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17035, Honey Grove, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.46 percent of residents in 17035 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 18.22 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Honey Grove, PA (ZIP Code 17035)

The crisp, clean air of Honey Grove, Pennsylvania, in ZIP code 17035, offers a bucolic charm, making it a tempting location for those seeking respite from urban hustle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting demands a careful assessment of healthcare access. A critical component of this evaluation is understanding the transportation landscape, a factor that directly impacts the ability to obtain timely medical care during an asthma exacerbation. This ‘Asthma Score’ write-up delves into the realities of getting to healthcare within and around Honey Grove, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options.

The primary healthcare provider serving Honey Grove residents is the Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, located approximately 20 miles away in Lewistown. Driving to this facility, the main artery is Route 75, a two-lane highway that can be subject to seasonal traffic and potential delays. Travel time, under ideal conditions, is around 30-40 minutes. The route offers scenic views, but in an asthma emergency, every minute counts. Alternate routes exist, primarily utilizing local roads such as Main Street in Honey Grove and then connecting to Route 322, which eventually leads to Lewistown. These options, however, are generally slower, and the winding roads can be challenging for drivers navigating during a respiratory crisis.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to the needs of residents in Honey Grove. Service frequency is low, and routes may not directly serve the hospital. Furthermore, the MCTA's accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are essential for some asthma sufferers, but availability on all routes must be confirmed. The lack of readily available public transit underscores the challenges faced by individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability in Honey Grove is variable. Availability depends on driver presence, which can be sparse in rural areas, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. While ride-sharing offers a degree of flexibility, it is not a guaranteed solution for immediate transportation during an asthma attack. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, are crucial resources for asthma patients. In an emergency, calling 911 will dispatch an ambulance. The response time will depend on the location of the nearest emergency medical services (EMS) unit, and the distance to the hospital. NEMT services, which provide transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, are also available. However, it is essential to research and pre-arrange these services, as availability and insurance coverage can vary.

The 'Asthma Score' for Honey Grove, therefore, reflects a mixed bag of accessibility. The drive to the primary healthcare facility, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, is manageable, but the reliance on a personal vehicle is significant. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing availability is uncertain. Medical transportation services are available for emergencies, but pre-planning and insurance coverage are crucial.

Considering a move to Honey Grove requires a thorough evaluation of these transportation factors, especially for individuals with asthma. The relative isolation of the area and the dependence on personal vehicles for healthcare access are critical considerations. Prospective residents should investigate the availability of ride-sharing services, pre-arrange NEMT options, and familiarize themselves with emergency medical procedures.

Beyond the immediate vicinity of Honey Grove, the broader healthcare landscape presents additional considerations. Specialty care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, may necessitate travel to larger cities like Harrisburg or State College. These trips involve longer drive times, potentially utilizing highways such as US-322 or I-81, adding to the complexity of healthcare access. The ability to manage asthma effectively often depends on regular appointments, and the convenience of these appointments is directly impacted by transportation options.

The quality of life in Honey Grove is undeniably attractive, but the practical realities of healthcare access must be weighed carefully. For individuals with asthma, this involves understanding the limitations of public transportation, the potential challenges of ride-sharing, and the importance of pre-planning for medical appointments. The 'Asthma Score' is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that evolves with individual needs and circumstances.

The decision to move to Honey Grove should be informed by a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. Careful consideration of these factors will empower individuals with asthma to make informed choices, ensuring their health and well-being in this charming rural community.