17076, Oakland Mills, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17076, Oakland Mills, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17076 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 13.45 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Oakland Mills (ZIP Code 17076)

The crisp, rural air of Oakland Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17076), often conjures images of serene landscapes and a slower pace of life. For individuals managing asthma, however, the reality of healthcare access can be more complex. This assessment, the "Asthma Score," examines the transportation infrastructure available to residents, particularly those with asthma, to reach essential healthcare services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access within and around this Mifflin County community.

Oakland Mills, nestled within the heart of Pennsylvania, presents unique transportation challenges. The surrounding geography, characterized by rolling hills and farmland, dictates the available routes. The primary roadways serving the area are Pennsylvania Route 35 (PA-35), a north-south artery, and PA-75, which intersects PA-35. These highways are crucial for connecting Oakland Mills to larger population centers where specialized medical care is often concentrated.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for most residents. The time required to reach healthcare facilities is a critical factor in the Asthma Score. For instance, the drive to Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 20-25 minutes via PA-35 South. This drive time, while manageable for some, can be challenging for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation, especially during peak traffic hours or inclement weather. The ability to quickly access emergency care is paramount for asthma management.

Further afield, access to specialized pulmonology and allergy services in Harrisburg, the state capital, requires a longer journey. The most direct route involves traveling east on PA-322, a major highway that eventually merges with US-322. This drive can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This extended travel time underscores the importance of proactive asthma management strategies and readily available emergency care within the local community.

Public transportation options in Oakland Mills are limited. The Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, primarily serving the Lewistown area. While the MCTA offers ADA-accessible buses, the limited service frequency and route coverage make it an impractical option for many residents, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments or experiencing acute asthma symptoms. The reliance on personal vehicles is therefore amplified.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs presents inherent uncertainties, including potential delays and the need to pre-book rides. The cost of these services can also be a barrier to access, especially for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized approach to healthcare access. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to individuals requiring assistance. These services often cater to those with mobility limitations or who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability and coverage of NEMT services in Oakland Mills can vary, and prior arrangements are typically required. The Asthma Score must consider the reliability and responsiveness of these services in emergency situations.

For individuals considering moving to Oakland Mills, the Asthma Score becomes a crucial factor. The availability of accessible and timely transportation to healthcare services is a significant determinant of quality of life, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like asthma. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate the transportation landscape, including drive times to medical facilities, the reliability of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

The Asthma Score also acknowledges the importance of local healthcare resources. While specialized care may require travel, the presence of primary care physicians and urgent care facilities within or near Oakland Mills is essential. These local resources provide a first line of defense in managing asthma, offering routine check-ups, medication refills, and initial treatment for exacerbations. The accessibility and quality of these local services contribute significantly to the overall Asthma Score.

The score considers the role of telehealth in bridging the healthcare access gap. Telemedicine consultations can reduce the need for travel, particularly for routine follow-up appointments and medication management. However, the effectiveness of telehealth depends on reliable internet access, a factor that may vary within Oakland Mills. The Asthma Score evaluates the availability of high-speed internet and the integration of telehealth services by local healthcare providers.

The impact of seasonal variations on transportation and healthcare access is another consideration. Winter weather, with its potential for snow and ice, can significantly impact road conditions and increase travel times. This can pose a particular challenge for individuals with asthma, who may be more susceptible to respiratory infections during the colder months. The Asthma Score should take into account the preparedness of the community for adverse weather conditions and the availability of alternative transportation options during these periods.

Finally, the Asthma Score evaluates the overall community support system for individuals with asthma. This includes the availability of asthma education programs, support groups, and resources for managing the condition. A strong community support network can empower individuals to take an active role in their healthcare and navigate the transportation challenges they may face. The Asthma Score aims to provide a holistic assessment of healthcare access in Oakland Mills, considering not only the physical infrastructure but also the social and community resources available to support individuals with asthma.