17739, Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17739, Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 17739 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital with a distance of 16.04 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jersey Mills (ZIP Code 17739)

The crisp air of Jersey Mills, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17739), beckons with the promise of rural serenity. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting presents a unique set of challenges, particularly concerning healthcare access. This “Asthma Score” write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options, evaluating their impact on timely and reliable medical care, a crucial factor for those considering moving to Jersey Mills. We will assess the available routes, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, all within the context of managing asthma symptoms.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the drive times to the nearest healthcare facilities. The primary hospital serving the region is UPMC Williamsport, located approximately 25 miles east of Jersey Mills. The most direct route involves traversing **PA-44 North** to **US-220 South**, a journey typically taking around 40-50 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, this estimate is subject to considerable fluctuation. Rush hour, inclement weather, or unforeseen road closures on these highways can significantly extend travel times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms if a medical emergency arises.

Alternative routes to UPMC Williamsport exist, though they often involve longer travel times. **PA-44 North** eventually intersects with **PA-15 South**, offering another path, but this adds considerable mileage and potential delays. The secondary healthcare option, Geisinger Jersey Shore Hospital, is located roughly 30 miles southeast. Accessing this facility involves navigating **PA-44 South** and then **PA-220 South**, a drive that can take approximately an hour, depending on traffic.

Public transportation options within Jersey Mills and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a significant hurdle for those reliant on this mode of transportation. The primary public transit provider is the River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT). However, RVT's services within this area are sparse. The nearest bus route that services Jersey Mills is the **Route 30** which operates on a limited schedule, primarily serving the city of Williamsport. The route's frequency and coverage may not be sufficient for regular medical appointments or sudden emergencies. Moreover, the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, is crucial for some asthma sufferers. While RVT strives to ensure ADA compliance, the accessibility of individual stops and the potential for delays associated with accommodating passengers with disabilities must be considered.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area, offering a potential solution for healthcare transportation. However, their availability in Jersey Mills is less predictable. Ride-sharing relies on driver density, which is lower in rural areas. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, might prove challenging, potentially delaying access to critical medical care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services are a vital resource for individuals with chronic conditions. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained staff to assist patients. However, availability, cost, and advance booking requirements vary between providers. Researching and establishing a relationship with a reliable medical transport service before moving to Jersey Mills is highly recommended for individuals with asthma.

Several medical transport brands service the area. Medstar Transportation and First Transit are known providers of non-emergency medical transportation. These companies offer various levels of service, from basic transportation to wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Booking these services in advance is crucial, especially for routine appointments. The availability of these services during emergencies, however, may be limited, and response times can vary.

The geographical remoteness of Jersey Mills presents challenges for healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles is paramount. The lack of robust public transportation and the variable availability of ride-sharing services emphasize the importance of reliable transportation. The asthma sufferer must consider the potential for delays caused by traffic, weather, or mechanical issues.

The Asthma Score for Jersey Mills, therefore, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While UPMC Williamsport offers comprehensive care, the drive times and potential for delays pose a significant concern. The limited public transit options and the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability further complicate the situation. Individuals with asthma considering moving to Jersey Mills must proactively address transportation concerns.

Establishing a relationship with a reliable medical transport provider, if needed, is crucial. Having a backup plan for transportation, such as a neighbor or friend, is also advisable. Familiarizing oneself with the alternative routes to healthcare facilities and monitoring traffic conditions are essential precautions. Careful consideration of these factors is critical for ensuring timely access to medical care and managing asthma effectively in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community.

The decision to move to Jersey Mills requires a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. The Asthma Score reflects the need for meticulous planning and proactive measures to mitigate the challenges of transportation. For those with asthma, a move to Jersey Mills necessitates a commitment to ensuring reliable transportation for optimal healthcare management.