17364, Thomasville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17364, Thomasville, Pennsylvania is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.75 percent of residents in 17364 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Memorial with a distance of 7.39 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Thomasville, PA (ZIP Code 17364)

The air hangs heavy with potential challenges for individuals managing asthma in Thomasville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17364). This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare, specifically focusing on the complexities of transportation. We'll delve into the realities of commuting for medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Thomasville, especially those with respiratory sensitivities. The goal is to provide a clear 'Asthma Score' reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical care within this community.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is the time and effort required to reach their healthcare providers. This translates to the 'transportation burden'. Thomasville, nestled in York County, presents a mixed bag. While the town itself is relatively small, the surrounding area offers a more diverse range of healthcare options. However, these options are often geographically dispersed, demanding careful consideration of available transportation.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Thomasville. The primary arteries are **Pennsylvania Route 74 (PA-74)**, a north-south thoroughfare, and **U.S. Route 30 (US-30)**, which forms the northern boundary of the ZIP code. PA-74 provides direct access to local services and connects to the larger network. US-30, a major east-west highway, offers quicker access to regional medical centers but can be subject to heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours.

**Drive Times:** Local physician offices and urgent care facilities in Thomasville are generally accessible within a 10-15 minute drive. However, specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergists, might necessitate travel to York City, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via PA-74 or US-30. Major hospitals, like WellSpan York Hospital, are also located in York City, demanding a similar travel time. The variability of traffic conditions significantly impacts these times, particularly during rush hour, potentially adding 15-20 minutes to the commute.

Public transportation options in Thomasville are limited. The **York County Transportation Authority (YCTA)** provides bus service, but its routes within the ZIP code are infrequent and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. **Route 12**, for instance, might offer a connection to York City, but the schedule is limited, and waiting times can be substantial. This makes relying on public transit a less viable option for individuals with asthma, especially those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing acute symptoms.

**ADA Accessibility:** The YCTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). All fixed-route buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, the limited frequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those experiencing respiratory distress. Furthermore, the walk from the bus stop to the healthcare facility might be a concern, particularly in inclement weather.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Thomasville, offering a more flexible alternative to public transit. However, the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. The availability of drivers also fluctuates, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity for those managing asthma.

Medical transportation services are another option, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation** often provide door-to-door service, potentially including assistance with mobility. These services can be particularly beneficial for those unable to drive or lacking access to other forms of transportation. However, eligibility requirements, scheduling constraints, and potential wait times should be carefully considered.

The air quality in Thomasville, while generally acceptable, is subject to seasonal variations and localized pollution sources. The proximity to agricultural areas can lead to increased pollen counts during certain times of the year, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms. Furthermore, the presence of industrial activity in the surrounding area warrants consideration.

**Moving to Thomasville** requires careful planning for individuals with asthma. The relative isolation of the town necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare access. Establishing a strong relationship with a local physician is essential. Understanding the limitations of public transit and the cost implications of ride-sharing is crucial.

**Asthma Score Assessment:** The 'Asthma Score' for commuting to healthcare in Thomasville is moderately challenging. While local physician offices are readily accessible, specialized care and hospital visits require longer travel times. The limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for traffic congestion contribute to the complexity. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative solutions, but their cost and availability must be considered.

**Recommendations:** Individuals with asthma considering a move to Thomasville should prioritize the following: secure a reliable vehicle, establish a clear understanding of their healthcare needs and the associated transportation requirements, and investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services. They should also be prepared to manage potential exposure to environmental triggers and develop a comprehensive asthma action plan.