17353, Orrtanna, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17353, Orrtanna, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.32 percent of residents in 17353 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 9.28 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Orrtanna (ZIP Code 17353)

The crisp air of Orrtanna, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Adams County, holds a certain allure. For those considering a move, particularly families with asthma, understanding the practicalities of healthcare access is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 17353, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, all critical components of seamless healthcare access.

The primary concern for individuals with asthma is swift access to medical care during exacerbations. This necessitates a clear understanding of the transportation infrastructure available. Within Orrtanna itself, the options are limited, making reliance on personal vehicles a necessity. The closest significant medical facilities are in Gettysburg, approximately a 15-minute drive via **Route 30**, a major east-west artery. During peak hours, traffic can become congested, potentially increasing drive times and adding stress, factors that can trigger asthma symptoms.

Further afield, specialists and more comprehensive care may necessitate journeys to York or Harrisburg. Reaching York, roughly a 45-minute drive, involves navigating **Route 30** and then connecting to **Interstate 83**. Harrisburg, approximately an hour's drive, requires using **Route 15** or **Route 30** and then accessing **Interstate 83** or **Route 81**. These longer drives increase the potential for exposure to environmental triggers, such as pollen or vehicle exhaust, and the stress associated with travel, all of which can negatively impact asthma management.

Public transportation options in this rural area are sparse. The Gettysburg Transit Authority (GTA) provides limited bus service within Gettysburg, but its reach doesn't extend to Orrtanna. This severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The absence of robust public transit underscores the dependence on private transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the potential for exposure to allergens or irritants within ride-sharing vehicles, such as pet dander or cleaning products, poses a challenge for asthma sufferers.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized approach. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel, ensuring safe and comfortable transport. However, the availability of these services in Orrtanna needs to be investigated. Researching local providers, such as Liberty Ambulance or other regional medical transport companies, is crucial.

When evaluating healthcare access, the proximity of pharmacies is also important. Several pharmacies are located in Gettysburg, easily accessible by car. However, the lack of local pharmacies in Orrtanna necessitates travel, potentially increasing the time required to obtain medication or supplies.

The "Asthma Score" for Orrtanna, based on these factors, reflects the challenges faced by individuals with asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability all contribute to a less-than-ideal healthcare access landscape. This is not to say that healthcare is inaccessible, but rather that careful planning and consideration are required to ensure timely and efficient access to medical care.

For families considering moving to Orrtanna, a thorough assessment of individual needs and preferences is essential. This should include a review of the specific healthcare requirements of the family member with asthma, the availability of specialists, and the potential for exacerbations.

The ability to manage asthma effectively relies on several factors, including access to timely medical care, adherence to medication regimens, and avoidance of environmental triggers. The transportation infrastructure in Orrtanna directly impacts these factors. The drive times to medical facilities, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services all influence the ease with which residents can access healthcare.

To improve the "Asthma Score" for Orrtanna, several steps could be taken. Encouraging the expansion of public transportation, including routes that connect to Orrtanna, would significantly improve healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, particularly during off-peak hours, would provide another option. Supporting the establishment of a local pharmacy would reduce the need for travel to obtain medication.

Furthermore, educating residents about asthma management and providing resources for identifying and avoiding environmental triggers would empower individuals to take control of their health. The availability of specialized medical transport services should be investigated and promoted, ensuring that patients with specific needs can access appropriate care.

In conclusion, while Orrtanna offers the charm of a rural setting, its transportation infrastructure presents challenges for individuals with asthma. The "Asthma Score" reflects the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure seamless healthcare access. Prospective residents should thoroughly assess their individual needs, research local resources, and consider the implications of the transportation landscape before making a move. Prioritizing healthcare access is a crucial component of making a well-informed decision when considering moving to Orrtanna.