17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.06 percent of residents in 17813 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 33.23 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Beavertown (ZIP Code 17813)

Considering a move to the tranquil embrace of Beavertown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17813)? For individuals managing asthma, understanding the ease of access to healthcare is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Beavertown, evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities and providing a comprehensive overview for informed decision-making. We will explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements in determining the feasibility of healthcare access for those with respiratory sensitivities.

The heart of the matter lies in the ability to swiftly and reliably reach medical care, especially during an asthma exacerbation. Delays can have serious consequences, making the efficiency and availability of transportation a critical factor. This analysis will provide a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities that await residents seeking healthcare in Beavertown.

**Driving to Healthcare: A Road Map**

Beavertown's location, nestled in central Pennsylvania, dictates the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare: personal vehicles. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in surrounding towns, necessitating a reliance on roadways.

The primary artery connecting Beavertown to the wider healthcare network is **Route 522**. Traveling south on Route 522 leads to the Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, approximately a 25-30 minute drive. This hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including an emergency department, pulmonary specialists, and respiratory therapy. The drive itself is generally straightforward, but potential delays can arise due to traffic, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions.

Heading west on Route 522, and then south on **Route 35**, provides access to the Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, a slightly longer journey of around 40-45 minutes. Geisinger Lewistown offers similar services to Evangelical Community Hospital, providing a viable alternative. The route involves navigating some rural roads, and drivers should be mindful of potential wildlife crossings.

The driving experience, while manageable, requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The availability of reliable transportation is crucial for individuals with asthma, and the relatively short drive times to these hospitals offer a degree of reassurance. However, the reliance on personal vehicles highlights the importance of maintaining a well-functioning car and having a backup plan in case of vehicle breakdown.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Beavertown and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals reliant on alternatives to personal vehicles. The primary public transit provider is the Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA), which operates bus routes throughout Snyder County. However, these routes primarily serve the larger towns and cities, and their frequency and coverage in Beavertown are minimal.

Specifically, there is no direct bus route that serves Beavertown and provides access to either Evangelical Community Hospital or Geisinger Lewistown Hospital. This lack of direct public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their medical condition.

Furthermore, the SVTA buses, while attempting to provide ADA features, may not always fully meet the needs of individuals with severe asthma. The potential for exposure to allergens or irritants on public transit, coupled with the lack of readily available medical assistance, can create an unsafe environment during an asthma episode.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

The absence of robust public transit necessitates exploring alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing services and specialized medical transport. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, while present in the region, may have limited availability in Beavertown, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

The reliability of ride-sharing services for urgent medical needs is also questionable. The response time and availability of drivers can be unpredictable, potentially leading to delays in reaching medical care. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant burden for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer a more specialized solution. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations, providing immediate medical attention and transport to the nearest hospital. However, the cost of ambulance services can be substantial, and they are primarily intended for life-threatening emergencies.

NEMT providers offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments, such as doctor visits and therapy sessions. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who lack access to personal vehicles. However, the availability of NEMT services in Beavertown may be limited, and the booking process may require advance planning.

**Evaluating the Asthma Score: A Holistic Perspective**

Assessing the "Asthma Score" for Beavertown (ZIP Code 17813) requires a comprehensive evaluation of the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing healthcare presents both advantages and disadvantages. The relatively short drive times to nearby hospitals offer a degree of convenience, but the potential for traffic delays and the need for a reliable vehicle are significant considerations.

The limited public transit options and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services pose substantial challenges for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to drive. The dependence on specialized medical transport services adds to the complexity and potential cost of healthcare access.

**Moving to Beavertown** requires careful consideration of these factors. Individuals with asthma should assess their ability to drive, their access to a reliable vehicle, and their willingness to rely on alternative transportation options. They should also research the availability and cost of medical transport services and develop a contingency plan for unexpected medical emergencies.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Beavertown reflects a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. While the proximity to healthcare facilities offers a degree of reassurance, the limitations in public transit and ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and proactive measures to ensure reliable and timely access to medical care. The decision to move to Beavertown should be made with a clear understanding of these transportation realities and a commitment to prioritizing healthcare access.