17721, Avis, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17721, Avis, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.68 percent of residents in 17721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital with a distance of 2.58 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17721

The air hangs heavy in the Susquehanna Valley, a tapestry woven with the scent of pine and the whisper of industry. For residents of ZIP Code 17721, the health of that air is paramount, especially for those managing asthma. Assessing healthcare access, a critical component of the Asthma Score, requires a deep dive into the transportation landscape. This analysis examines the available routes to medical facilities, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-share options, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking asthma care in this specific geographic area.

The primary arteries for vehicular travel in and around 17721 are the familiar veins of Pennsylvania's road system. Interstate 80, a major east-west corridor, skirts the northern edge of the zip code, offering swift passage to larger medical centers in Williamsport, approximately a 30-minute drive, or Bloomsburg, roughly an hour away. State Route 15, another crucial artery, slices north-south, providing access to healthcare facilities in the surrounding towns and cities. Local roads like Route 44 and Route 880 weave through the communities, connecting residents to smaller clinics and primary care physicians.

Drive times, of course, are variable. Rush hour, weather conditions, and even the time of day can significantly impact the journey. A seemingly short trip on a local road can become a frustrating crawl during peak traffic. The Asthma Score must consider these variables, factoring in potential delays and the resulting stress, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The accessibility of healthcare is not merely about distance; it's about the reliability and predictability of the journey.

Public transportation options, while present, are limited in 17721. The local bus system, if available, might offer routes to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, is a critical consideration. The Asthma Score must evaluate the schedule's suitability for appointments and the availability of ADA-compliant features like ramps and designated seating. This is especially important for individuals with mobility limitations who may be managing asthma. Information on bus routes, numbers, and accessibility features needs to be readily available.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are increasingly prevalent in many areas. Their presence in 17721, and the cost of their services, are important factors. The availability of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations, can significantly impact healthcare access. The Asthma Score must assess the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing as a viable transportation option for medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer a specialized solution. These services, like those offered by local ambulance companies or dedicated medical transportation providers, provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel and specialized equipment. The Asthma Score should investigate the availability, cost, and scope of these services, especially for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have complex medical needs.

The Asthma Score also considers the proximity of pharmacies and the ease of medication refills. Access to medication is just as crucial as access to medical appointments. The distance to pharmacies, the availability of drive-through services, and the ease of online prescription refills are all factors that can impact the overall Asthma Score. The ability to quickly and easily obtain necessary medications is a critical component of asthma management.

The analysis of transportation options must also account for the unique challenges faced by individuals with asthma. Exposure to allergens, pollutants, and temperature fluctuations during travel can trigger asthma symptoms. The Asthma Score should consider the availability of air-conditioned vehicles, the potential for exposure to environmental triggers during public transit, and the need for accommodations for individuals with sensitivities.

The final Asthma Score for 17721 will be a nuanced assessment, reflecting the interplay of all these factors. It will consider the density of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of the transportation network, and the availability of support services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for asthma patients, enabling them to make informed decisions about their care and their living situation.

The process of evaluating the Asthma Score involves more than just numbers and distances. It requires a qualitative understanding of the lived experiences of individuals with asthma in 17721. Interviews with residents, feedback from healthcare providers, and a deep dive into local resources are crucial to building an accurate and meaningful assessment.

The ideal scenario is one where healthcare access is seamless, affordable, and readily available. This requires a robust transportation infrastructure, a network of accessible healthcare providers, and a commitment to supporting the needs of individuals with asthma. The Asthma Score serves as a tool to measure progress toward this goal and to identify areas where improvements are needed.

For a person with asthma considering a move, the Asthma Score becomes an invaluable resource. It provides a clear, concise overview of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in a specific geographic area. It allows individuals to make informed decisions about where to live, considering the impact of transportation on their health and well-being.

The Asthma Score, therefore, is not just a number; it is a reflection of the community's commitment to the health and well-being of its residents. It is a call to action, urging us to create a more accessible and supportive environment for individuals managing asthma. The goal is to ensure that everyone in 17721, regardless of their location or circumstances, has access to the care they need to live a full and healthy life.

Moving to Avis? The Asthma Score will be a key factor in your decision-making process, providing insights into the healthcare landscape and the ease of accessing medical care.