17086, Richfield, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17086, Richfield, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.67 percent of residents in 17086 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 27.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 23.28 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Richfield, PA (ZIP Code 17086)

Relocating to a new community is a significant life event, and for individuals managing asthma, understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount. This analysis, the "Asthma Score," focuses on transportation options available to residents of Richfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17086), specifically considering the ease of reaching medical facilities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Richfield.

Richfield, a rural community nestled in central Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The primary consideration for asthma sufferers is the time and effort required to reach healthcare providers, particularly during an asthma exacerbation. This analysis will assess the accessibility of various medical facilities, emphasizing the practicalities of navigating the area.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

The cornerstone of transportation in Richfield is the personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfares are Pennsylvania Route 35 (PA-35), a north-south artery, and PA-235, which intersects PA-35 in the heart of town. These roads, while generally well-maintained, are often subject to the slower pace of rural driving.

To access specialized healthcare, residents will likely need to travel to larger towns and cities. The nearest major medical center is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital, approximately 25 miles away. The journey typically involves heading south on PA-35, then connecting to US-322 West. The drive time, under ideal conditions, is about 45 minutes. However, traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend this.

Another option is UPMC Harrisburg, a larger hospital complex located approximately 60 miles east. This trip involves traveling east on PA-35, then connecting to PA-322 East. The drive, which could take up to an hour and 15 minutes, is contingent on traffic and weather conditions.

For emergency situations, every minute counts. Understanding these drive times and the potential for delays is crucial. The Asthma Score will consider the reliability of these routes, accounting for seasonal weather patterns and potential traffic bottlenecks.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Richfield are extremely limited. The primary provider in the region is the Juniata County Transportation Authority (JCTA). However, their services are primarily demand-response, meaning they operate on a reservation basis. This can present challenges for spontaneous medical needs.

The JCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking make public transit a less-than-ideal option for routine or urgent healthcare access. The Asthma Score will reflect the constraints of this transportation mode.

The lack of readily available public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation options in Richfield. This is a significant factor for individuals with asthma, who may experience sudden and unpredictable health crises.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed. Demand is often lower in rural areas, potentially resulting in longer wait times. This is a critical factor to consider during an asthma attack. The Asthma Score will reflect the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a more structured solution. Companies like MedStar and LifeLine Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and scheduled treatments. These services are typically pre-booked and offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

However, NEMT services come at a cost, and insurance coverage varies. The Asthma Score will consider the cost and accessibility of these services, factoring in the potential financial burden on individuals managing asthma.

**Healthcare Access and the Asthma Score:**

The Asthma Score for transportation to healthcare in Richfield, PA (17086) will be based on a composite of these factors. The score will reflect the relative ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities, taking into account drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing availability, and the cost and accessibility of medical transportation.

The score will also consider the proximity of urgent care facilities and pharmacies, which are essential for managing asthma symptoms. The availability of these resources within a reasonable distance is a crucial element of healthcare access.

The Asthma Score is designed to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities faced by individuals with asthma in Richfield. This information will empower prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and the suitability of the community.

**Moving to Richfield: Considerations for Asthma Sufferers:**

For individuals considering moving to Richfield, careful planning is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare management.

Establishing a relationship with a local physician and understanding the availability of emergency services are critical steps. Having a readily accessible asthma action plan and ensuring a reliable means of transportation are also paramount.

The Asthma Score aims to provide a clear and concise overview of the transportation landscape, allowing prospective residents to assess the community's suitability for their specific needs. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, individuals with asthma can make informed decisions about relocating to Richfield and ensure their healthcare needs are adequately met.