17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17730, Dewart, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17730 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Muncy with a distance of 8.67 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 17730

The pursuit of optimal healthcare, especially for those managing a condition like asthma, demands a thorough understanding of local transportation options. This write-up assesses healthcare access in ZIP Code 17730, focusing on commute times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive 'Asthma Score' perspective for anyone considering a move to Dewart, Pennsylvania.

The foundation of any healthcare access assessment lies in understanding the physical distances and travel times to medical facilities. In 17730, the primary access point for specialized asthma care is likely to be in nearby cities like Williamsport or Lewisburg. Driving times, therefore, become a crucial factor.

Heading south on **Route 147** offers a direct route to Northumberland and then onwards to the Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a facility known for its comprehensive respiratory care. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The road conditions on Route 147 are generally good, but be mindful of potential delays due to seasonal weather or construction.

Venturing west, the **Route 405** provides access to Milton and, eventually, to Williamsport via **Route 15**. This route is slightly longer, adding about 15 minutes to the overall travel time to Williamsport. Williamsport boasts a number of primary care physicians and specialists who can manage asthma.

For those seeking a shorter commute, the local primary care physicians in the neighboring towns of Milton and Watsontown offer immediate access to basic healthcare services. However, specialized asthma care often necessitates a trip to larger medical centers. These facilities are crucial for managing severe asthma cases, offering advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options.

Public transportation options in 17730 are limited. The primary provider is the River Valley TransitValley Transit Authority (RVTA), which operates bus routes in the Williamsport area. Unfortunately, RVTA service does not extend directly into Dewart. Residents would need to drive to a transfer point, such as Milton, to access the RVTA network.

The RVTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the infrequency of service and the need for transfers can significantly extend travel times, making it a less-than-ideal option for those with asthma, especially during exacerbations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport and surrounding areas. However, their availability in Dewart itself might be less consistent, particularly during off-peak hours. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable, especially if appointments are scheduled early in the morning or late at night.

Medical transport services provide a vital lifeline for individuals with significant mobility challenges or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments.

These services typically require advance booking and can be a more expensive option than public transit or ride-sharing. However, they offer the convenience of door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with specific medical needs, such as oxygen tanks or wheelchair assistance. The availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered when evaluating healthcare access.

The 'Asthma Score' for 17730 reflects the complexities of healthcare access in a rural environment. While primary care is accessible locally, specialized asthma care requires travel. The limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services all impact the overall score.

Moving to Dewart necessitates a careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Individuals with asthma should assess their personal needs and preferences, taking into account the frequency of medical appointments, the severity of their condition, and their ability to drive or arrange for transportation.

The availability of a reliable personal vehicle is a significant advantage in 17730. However, for those without a car, careful planning and reliance on family, friends, or medical transport services become essential. The proximity to Williamsport and other medical centers is a positive factor, but the travel times and transportation limitations must be factored into the overall assessment.

The healthcare landscape in 17730 presents both opportunities and challenges. While the location offers a peaceful, rural environment, healthcare access requires proactive planning and a willingness to navigate the transportation complexities. For those considering a move to Dewart, a thorough understanding of these factors is crucial for ensuring adequate healthcare access and managing asthma effectively.

The 'Asthma Score' for 17730 is moderate. While healthcare is accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles or the need for pre-planning for transportation options, along with the limited public transit options, impacts the overall score. The score can be improved with the availability of reliable personal transportation or access to medical transport services.

The decision to move to Dewart should be made with a clear understanding of these transportation challenges. Prospective residents with asthma should thoroughly research their transportation options, assess their healthcare needs, and plan accordingly to ensure their well-being.