17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17084, Reedsville, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.51 percent of residents in 17084 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 4.70 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Reedsville (ZIP Code 17084)

The air hangs a little different in Reedsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17084). Nestled in the heart of Mifflin County, this rural community offers a slower pace of life, rolling hills, and the quiet beauty of the Kishacoquillas Valley. But for individuals managing asthma, the tranquility must be balanced with practical considerations: the ease of accessing healthcare. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" of sorts, explores the transportation landscape for accessing medical care, a crucial element in managing this chronic respiratory condition. The focus is on understanding the realities of *healthcare access* within the context of *moving to Reedsville* and the *transportation* options available.

The most immediate challenge for residents of Reedsville is the relative scarcity of healthcare providers *within* the ZIP code. While family physicians and specialists may be located in the immediate vicinity, the reality is that many patients will need to travel to larger medical centers. This necessitates a thorough understanding of transportation options, their limitations, and their impact on the overall quality of life for someone with asthma.

**Driving: The Primary Mode**

For most Reedsville residents, the personal vehicle is the primary mode of transportation. The roads are generally well-maintained, but the distances to specialized care can be significant. The primary routes for accessing healthcare outside of Reedsville are:

* **Route 322:** This is the major artery connecting Reedsville to State College to the west and Harrisburg to the east. Traveling west towards State College (approximately 45 miles) provides access to Mount Nittany Medical Center, a comprehensive facility. The drive time, under ideal conditions, is roughly an hour. However, traffic, especially during Penn State University events, can significantly extend this.

* **Route 655:** This road provides access to the town of Lewistown, Pennsylvania, where one can find UPMC-affiliated facilities. This is a shorter drive, approximately 10 miles.

* **Route 103:** This road provides access to the town of Belleville, Pennsylvania, where one can find UPMC-affiliated facilities. This is a shorter drive, approximately 10 miles.

* **Route 522:** This road provides access to the town of McVeytown, Pennsylvania, where one can find UPMC-affiliated facilities. This is a shorter drive, approximately 10 miles.

The drive times, while seemingly manageable, must be factored into an asthma management plan. Unexpected traffic, weather conditions, and the potential for an asthma exacerbation during the drive all add layers of complexity. For those with severe asthma, the availability of a reliable and readily accessible personal vehicle is almost a necessity.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation in Reedsville and Mifflin County is limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider is the Mifflin County Transportation Authority (MCTA). The MCTA operates a fixed-route bus system, but service frequency and coverage are limited, particularly in rural areas.

* **Fixed Routes:** The MCTA offers a limited number of fixed routes that might serve Reedsville. However, these routes are infrequent, typically running on a schedule that may not align with medical appointments or urgent care needs. Schedules are available on the MCTA website.

* **ADA Accessibility:** The MCTA is mandated to provide accessible transportation services under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). All fixed-route buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps, and the MCTA offers paratransit services for individuals who cannot use the fixed-route system due to a disability.

* **Paratransit Services:** The MCTA provides a demand-response paratransit service for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use the fixed-route buses. This service requires advance booking and is subject to availability. This is the most viable option for those with asthma who cannot drive, but it still requires planning and may involve longer travel times.

The limitations of public transportation underscore the importance of exploring alternative options for *healthcare access*.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability can be inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which can be scarce in rural areas, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can quickly become prohibitive for frequent medical appointments.

* **Uber/Lyft Availability:** While Uber and Lyft may be available, their presence is not guaranteed. The availability of drivers can vary significantly depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the demand in the area.

* **Cost Considerations:** The cost of ride-sharing services can be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with chronic conditions who require frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often have trained personnel and vehicles equipped to handle medical needs.

* **Medical Transportation Providers:** Several medical transportation providers operate in the region. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

* **Cost and Insurance Coverage:** The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the provider, the distance traveled, and the type of service required. Some insurance plans may cover medical transportation, but it is essential to verify coverage details.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Perspective**

Assessing the "Asthma Score" for Reedsville involves more than just drive times and public transit schedules. It requires a holistic perspective, considering the following factors:

* **Distance to Emergency Care:** The proximity to emergency medical services is crucial. The drive time to the nearest hospital with an emergency room (typically UPMC in Lewistown or Mount Nittany Medical Center) is a critical factor.

* **Environmental Factors:** Reedsville's location in a valley can contribute to air quality concerns. Seasonal allergies, pollen counts, and other environmental triggers must be considered.

* **Community Support:** The availability of support groups, asthma educators, and other resources within the community can significantly impact asthma management.

* **Personal Resources:** The availability of a reliable vehicle, financial resources for transportation, and a support network of family and friends are all essential.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

For individuals with asthma considering *moving to Reedsville*, a thorough assessment of *transportation* options and *healthcare access* is paramount. While the rural setting offers certain advantages, the limited availability of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. Careful planning, including identifying reliable transportation options, establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider, and understanding the environmental factors that may trigger asthma symptoms, is essential for successful asthma management. The "Asthma Score" for Reedsville is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that must be continuously evaluated and adjusted based on individual needs and circumstances. The key is proactive planning and a commitment to prioritizing respiratory health.