17070, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17070, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.04 percent of residents in 17070 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Pinnacle Hospitals with a distance of 2.99 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Cumberland (ZIP Code 17070)

Considering a move to New Cumberland, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17070), and managing asthma? This assessment of healthcare access, focusing on transportation options, will provide a nuanced "Asthma Score" to help you evaluate the area's suitability. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, giving you a comprehensive picture of how easily you can reach vital healthcare services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone prioritizing their health, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is the ability to reach your medical providers promptly and reliably. For individuals with asthma, this is even more critical. Emergency situations can arise quickly, and access to immediate care can be a matter of life and death. This analysis will evaluate the available transportation infrastructure, highlighting potential challenges and opportunities for those seeking to move to New Cumberland.

**Driving Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation for many residents in New Cumberland is the personal vehicle. The town's location in the Harrisburg metropolitan area means you'll be navigating a network of highways and local roads. The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) provides rapid access to eastern and western destinations. However, during peak hours, traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times, potentially delaying access to healthcare facilities.

Interstate 83 (I-83), a major north-south artery, is essential for reaching hospitals and specialists in Harrisburg and surrounding areas. Travel times to these facilities are generally manageable, but again, traffic can be a factor, especially during rush hour. Route 11/15, running parallel to the Susquehanna River, offers an alternative route, though it's often slower due to traffic lights and local traffic.

Within New Cumberland itself, local roads like Bridge Street and Market Street are vital for accessing pharmacies, urgent care facilities, and primary care physicians. Drive times within the borough are generally short, but navigating these roads during peak hours can present challenges.

For instance, a drive to UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, a major hospital, from the center of New Cumberland can take approximately 15-20 minutes in normal traffic via I-83. During rush hour, this time could easily double. Similarly, a trip to Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill would take about 10-15 minutes via the Carlisle Pike (Route 11/15) under normal conditions.

**Public Transportation and Accessibility**

The Capital Area Transit (CAT) system provides public transportation services in the Harrisburg area, including routes that serve New Cumberland. However, the coverage and frequency of these routes may not be ideal for all healthcare needs. CAT buses typically run on a fixed schedule, which may not align with the urgency of a medical appointment.

Several CAT routes, including the "A" and "B" lines, serve New Cumberland, offering connections to Harrisburg and other surrounding communities. While these routes provide an affordable transportation option, the frequency can be limited, especially on weekends and evenings. For individuals with asthma, the potential for delays and extended travel times can be a significant concern.

CAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. This is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations or those who may experience breathing difficulties. However, the accessibility of bus stops themselves can vary, with some lacking adequate shelter from the elements, which can be a trigger for asthma symptoms.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Harrisburg area, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transportation. These services offer on-demand transportation, allowing for greater flexibility in scheduling medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services are typically reserved for those who cannot safely travel by other means. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

**Medical Facilities and Healthcare Access**

New Cumberland and the surrounding area offer a range of healthcare facilities. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center are major hospitals providing comprehensive medical services. Several urgent care clinics and primary care physicians are located within a reasonable distance.

The availability of specialized asthma care, including pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, is crucial for managing the condition. Access to these specialists is generally good in the Harrisburg area, but appointment availability may vary.

Pharmacies are readily accessible in New Cumberland, ensuring that medications are easily obtained. However, it's important to consider the pharmacy's hours of operation and whether they offer 24-hour services, especially in case of emergencies.

**Asthma Score Considerations**

Based on the transportation options and healthcare access in New Cumberland, an "Asthma Score" can be developed. This score would consider the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average travel time to major hospitals and specialist offices.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency and coverage of CAT routes.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The availability and cost of Uber and Lyft.
* **Medical Transport Access:** The availability and cost of ambulance and NEMT services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance to pharmacies and their operating hours.
* **Specialist Availability:** The ease of accessing pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.

A higher score would indicate better healthcare access and a more favorable environment for managing asthma. Conversely, a lower score would suggest potential challenges in accessing timely and reliable healthcare services.

**Conclusion**

Moving to New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, offers a blend of suburban living with access to urban amenities. However, for individuals with asthma, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. While the area boasts a network of highways and roads, traffic congestion can impact travel times. Public transportation options exist but may have limitations in frequency and coverage. Ride-sharing services provide flexibility, while medical transport services offer specialized assistance.

By carefully considering the transportation options, healthcare facilities, and specialist availability, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision about whether New Cumberland is the right place to call home. Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" is a personalized assessment, reflecting individual needs and priorities. Understanding these factors will empower individuals to navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure they can effectively manage their condition.