17210, Amberson, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17210, Amberson, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.33 percent of residents in 17210 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 17.17 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 17210

The air hangs heavy with anticipation in ZIP Code 17210, a place where the promise of a new life, perhaps a move to the historic Amberson neighborhood, intertwines with the practical realities of daily existence. For those managing asthma, this reality includes the critical task of navigating healthcare access. This write-up serves as an "Asthma Score," a guide to understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access within and around 17210, a crucial consideration for anyone considering a move or already residing here.

The very fabric of life in 17210, a tapestry woven with residential streets and commercial corridors, dictates the initial stages of healthcare access. For those with asthma, a quick response to a flare-up is paramount. The proximity of urgent care facilities and hospitals is the first layer of our assessment. The primary artery for quick access to medical facilities is **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, a major north-south thoroughfare. The drive to the nearest emergency room, such as the UPMC Carlisle, can be relatively swift, typically taking under 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. However, I-81 can become congested during peak hours, potentially delaying critical access.

**US Route 11 (US-11)**, a parallel route to I-81, offers an alternative. While slower, it provides a more direct route to some healthcare providers within the area. The drive time on US-11 can fluctuate wildly depending on traffic and the specific destination, making it less predictable than I-81. The time of day and the severity of an asthma episode will greatly influence the choice of route.

Beyond these primary arteries, a network of smaller roads feeds into the healthcare system. **Walnut Bottom Road** and **Trindle Road** provide access to local clinics and medical offices. These routes, while convenient for routine appointments, can be slower and more prone to congestion during rush hour. The choice of transportation, therefore, becomes a critical factor in healthcare access.

Public transportation, a cornerstone of healthcare access in many urban areas, presents a more nuanced picture in 17210. The **Cumberland County Transit Authority (CCTA)** provides bus service throughout the county. While the CCTA offers routes that touch upon key areas, including some healthcare facilities, the frequency of service and the geographic coverage are limited. This can present challenges for individuals with asthma, especially during emergencies.

The CCTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can be a significant drawback for those requiring immediate access to medical care. The numbers and routes of the buses vary, so it is essential to research the specific routes that serve the desired healthcare facilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of transportation options. These services provide on-demand access to transportation, which can be a significant advantage for individuals with asthma. The ability to summon a ride quickly, especially during an emergency, can be a lifesaver. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the location within 17210. Surge pricing, particularly during peak hours or periods of high demand, can also add to the cost of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services, such as First Transit or Medical Transport, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. They are often a more reliable option for scheduled appointments than ride-sharing services. However, they may require advance booking and can be more expensive.

The choice of transportation for healthcare access in 17210 is therefore a complex equation. The ideal solution depends on individual needs, financial resources, and the urgency of the situation. For routine appointments, a combination of personal vehicles, public transportation, and ride-sharing services might suffice. However, for emergencies, the speed and reliability of personal vehicles or ride-sharing services may be crucial.

The location of healthcare providers within 17210 is another critical factor. The proximity of a primary care physician, a pulmonologist, and an emergency room significantly impacts healthcare access. The availability of specialized asthma care, including allergy testing and respiratory therapy, is also important. It is crucial to research the specific healthcare providers in the area and assess their accessibility via various transportation options.

The decision to move to Amberson, or anywhere in 17210, for someone with asthma requires a thorough evaluation of the transportation landscape. The "Asthma Score" is not a definitive number but a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access. It highlights the importance of considering factors such as proximity to medical facilities, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and the reliability of medical transportation services.

The quality of life in 17210 is intertwined with the ease of access to healthcare. The ability to quickly and reliably reach medical care is paramount for those managing asthma. The "Asthma Score" serves as a reminder that the choice of where to live is not simply about the beauty of a neighborhood or the convenience of amenities. It is also about ensuring the well-being and safety of those who call it home.