17219, Doylesburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17219, Doylesburg, Pennsylvania is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.30 percent of residents in 17219 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Chambersburg Hospital with a distance of 20.19 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Doylesburg (ZIP Code 17219)

Doylesburg, Pennsylvania, nestled in the scenic Cumberland Valley, presents a unique landscape for residents, particularly those managing asthma. The challenge of accessing healthcare in this rural setting is compounded by the necessity of reliable transportation, a crucial factor in managing this chronic respiratory condition. This 'Asthma Score' write-up analyzes the transportation options available to residents of ZIP code 17219, focusing on their impact on healthcare access. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, all within the context of asthma management.

The journey to healthcare in Doylesburg often begins with a car. The primary arteries for navigating the region are Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south thoroughfare, and U.S. Route 30 (US-30), an east-west corridor. The closest hospitals, Chambersburg Hospital and Carlisle Hospital, are the primary destinations for acute asthma care.

Chambersburg Hospital, approximately 15 miles from Doylesburg, can be reached via US-30 East. Drive times vary depending on traffic, typically ranging from 20 to 30 minutes. During peak hours, congestion on US-30 can extend travel times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms for individuals experiencing a flare-up. The route is relatively straightforward, but weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can present challenges.

Carlisle Hospital, located further east, necessitates a longer journey. The most direct route involves taking US-30 East to I-81 North, then exiting onto the designated route. This trip can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific location within Doylesburg. The longer travel time increases the risk for individuals with asthma, especially during an emergency.

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The primary provider is the rabbittransit, offering bus routes within Franklin and Cumberland counties. However, service frequency and coverage are restricted, especially in the more remote areas of ZIP code 17219.

Route 301, which runs through Chambersburg, offers some access to healthcare facilities, but its schedule might not align with medical appointments. The buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent service and potential for extended travel times make public transit a less desirable option for individuals with asthma, particularly during an acute attack.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible alternative to public transit. However, their availability in Doylesburg is variable. Demand often dictates service levels, and wait times can be significant, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability presents a significant challenge for individuals requiring immediate medical attention.

Medical transportation services are crucial for individuals with asthma who are unable to drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. Several companies operate in the region, including ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers.

Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, ensuring rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, the cost of ambulance services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Non-emergency medical transportation providers offer scheduled rides to medical appointments. These services can be invaluable for individuals with asthma who require regular check-ups, medication refills, or pulmonary rehabilitation.

The availability and accessibility of these services are essential components of the Asthma Score for Doylesburg. The reliability of the transportation options directly impacts the ability of individuals with asthma to manage their condition effectively.

The decision to move to Doylesburg, or any rural area, requires careful consideration for individuals with asthma. While the scenic beauty and slower pace of life may be appealing, the limitations in healthcare access and transportation options must be weighed against the benefits.

The Asthma Score for Doylesburg is influenced by several factors. The drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation all play a crucial role. The score reflects the ease with which individuals with asthma can access the healthcare they need.

Improving the Asthma Score for Doylesburg requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transit, expanding ride-sharing services, and ensuring the availability of affordable medical transportation options are essential steps. Promoting awareness of asthma management strategies, including medication adherence and environmental control, is equally important.

Furthermore, community initiatives can play a vital role. Collaborations between healthcare providers, transportation services, and local organizations can improve healthcare access for individuals with asthma. This could involve establishing designated transportation programs for medical appointments or providing asthma education and support groups.

The challenges of healthcare access in rural areas like Doylesburg are undeniable. However, by understanding the transportation landscape and implementing targeted interventions, we can improve the Asthma Score and enhance the quality of life for individuals with asthma. The goal is to ensure that all residents, regardless of their location, have access to the healthcare they need to thrive.