17501, Akron, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17501, Akron, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.70 percent of residents in 17501 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wellspan Ephrata Community Hospital with a distance of 2.73 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 17501

ZIP Code 17501, encompassing the charming borough of Akron, Pennsylvania, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing asthma. The ability to quickly and reliably access healthcare is paramount for those with this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis, the "Asthma Score," delves into the transportation infrastructure within and around Akron, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing/medical transport availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for asthmatics.

The cornerstone of this evaluation is the proximity of healthcare facilities. Within 17501, the focus is on Lancaster General Health's (LGH) Akron Medical Center, a vital resource for local residents. Access to specialists, emergency care, and routine check-ups significantly impacts asthma management. A high Asthma Score reflects minimal travel time and a variety of reliable transportation choices, while a low score indicates potential barriers to timely care.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, presents its own set of challenges and advantages. From central Akron, the Akron Medical Center is easily accessible via West Main Street, a straightforward route with minimal traffic congestion during off-peak hours. The drive typically takes less than five minutes. However, during rush hour, especially between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM and 6:00 PM, traffic can increase drive times to 10-15 minutes. For those needing to travel to LGH’s main campus in Lancaster City, the journey involves navigating Route 272 South to Route 30 East. This drive, spanning approximately 10-12 miles, usually takes 20-30 minutes, barring significant traffic delays.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) provides a faster route to hospitals in Harrisburg or Philadelphia, though these options are less frequently utilized for routine asthma care. The strategic location of Akron, near major roadways, offers flexibility, but traffic patterns and potential road closures must be considered when planning medical appointments.

Public transportation in 17501 is provided by Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA). The availability of public transit significantly impacts the Asthma Score, particularly for those who do not drive or cannot drive. RRTA Route 11, the primary bus route serving Akron, offers service to Lancaster City, including stops near LGH’s main campus. While the route offers a direct link to healthcare, the travel time is considerably longer than driving, often taking 45 minutes to an hour.

The accessibility of public transit is a crucial factor. RRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the frequency of service on Route 11, especially on weekends and evenings, might pose challenges. Limited service could necessitate longer wait times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms if exposure to environmental triggers occurs during these waits.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation to and from medical appointments, potentially reducing travel time and eliminating the stress of driving. Availability in Akron is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could increase the cost of transportation. The reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather, is another factor that needs to be considered.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. These services, such as MedTrans and First Transit, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from healthcare appointments. They are particularly beneficial for individuals who require assistance getting in and out of vehicles or who have other medical needs. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for short-notice appointments.

The Asthma Score also considers the availability of pharmacy services. Access to medication is critical for asthma management. Akron has several local pharmacies, including those within the Akron Medical Center and nearby chain pharmacies, ensuring easy access to prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. The proximity of these pharmacies minimizes travel time and facilitates timely medication refills, which are essential for maintaining asthma control.

The overall Asthma Score for 17501 reflects a mixed bag. The convenience of driving to the Akron Medical Center is a significant advantage. However, the reliance on a single bus route and the potential for traffic delays during peak hours can negatively impact healthcare access. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options provides additional flexibility, but their cost and availability must be considered.

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Akron, the Asthma Score is a valuable tool. It highlights the importance of assessing individual transportation needs and preferences. Those who drive will likely find healthcare access relatively straightforward. Those who rely on public transit or ride-sharing services should carefully evaluate the frequency and reliability of these options.

The Asthma Score is not a static number. It is a dynamic assessment that reflects the ever-changing landscape of transportation and healthcare access. As infrastructure improvements occur, public transit expands, and ride-sharing services evolve, the Asthma Score will need to be re-evaluated. For now, 17501 offers a reasonable level of healthcare access for asthmatics, but careful planning and awareness of transportation options are essential for optimal asthma management.