17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.55 percent of residents in 17820 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 8.71 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17820**

Considering a move to Catawissa, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 17820? This assessment provides a detailed asthma score, focusing on transportation options and healthcare access, crucial factors for individuals managing respiratory conditions. Understanding the commute to healthcare facilities is paramount, influencing both the quality of life and the ability to effectively manage asthma.

The score integrates drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing options, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. This information, designed for those seeking to relocate, offers a nuanced perspective on the practical realities of living with asthma in this specific geographic area.

Catawissa, nestled in Columbia County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The area is predominantly rural, characterized by limited public transit and reliance on personal vehicles. This influences the asthma score significantly, particularly regarding healthcare access. The score will consider the challenges and opportunities presented by this environment.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Navigating the Roads**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 17820 is the automobile. Drive times to medical facilities are a primary concern, especially during peak hours or inclement weather. The primary routes involve Pennsylvania Route 42, Pennsylvania Route 44, and Interstate 80.

To reach Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, residents typically travel via Route 42, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during rush hour. The drive, approximately 10 miles, takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic flow.

For specialized care, such as pulmonology or allergy specialists, the drive to larger medical centers in Danville, like Geisinger Medical Center, is a more extended journey. This typically involves traveling on Route 44 and then onto Interstate 80. The distance, roughly 30 miles, translates to a drive time of 45-60 minutes, again subject to traffic and weather conditions.

The accessibility of emergency services is a critical factor. The drive time to the nearest emergency room, often at Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, is a significant consideration. Quick access to emergency care is vital for asthma sufferers experiencing severe exacerbations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in 17820 are limited, significantly impacting the asthma score. Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially on weekends or evenings.

The CCTA operates routes that may serve the Catawissa area, but these routes primarily focus on connecting smaller towns and villages to larger hubs like Bloomsburg. The frequency of these routes is not conducive to routine medical appointments, and the lack of direct routes to specialized healthcare facilities in Danville poses a significant challenge.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of CCTA buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues. While the CCTA strives for ADA compliance, the limited route options and infrequent schedules may still present barriers to healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. In a rural area like Catawissa, the response times for ride-sharing services may be longer, and the cost can be higher compared to urban areas.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to appointments, offer an alternative. These services, like medical transport providers, often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited.

The availability of these services, while helpful, cannot fully compensate for the limitations of public transit or the challenges of driving in this area. The asthma score will reflect the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential difficulties in accessing healthcare.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Element**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor. Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital provides primary care and some specialized services. However, for more complex cases or specialized care, residents often need to travel to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.

The availability of pharmacies and access to medications is also a critical consideration. Local pharmacies in Catawissa offer essential medications and services, but the availability of specialized asthma medications or equipment may be limited.

The asthma score will consider the availability of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists. The distance and accessibility of these specialists are critical factors influencing the ability to manage asthma effectively.

**Asthma Score: A Synthesis**

The asthma score for 17820 reflects the transportation challenges and healthcare access limitations. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly to specialized care in Danville, are a significant concern. The limited public transit options and the potential for longer wait times for ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges.

The score also considers the availability of emergency services and the proximity of pharmacies. While local pharmacies provide essential medications, the need to travel for specialized care or emergency services can impact the quality of life for asthma sufferers.

**Recommendations for Asthma Sufferers Considering a Move**

Individuals with asthma considering a move to 17820 should carefully assess their transportation needs. Owning a reliable vehicle is essential. Planning for longer drive times to medical appointments and being prepared for potential delays is crucial.

Exploring the availability of medical transport services and establishing a relationship with a local pharmacy are recommended. Understanding the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services is also vital.

Living in 17820 requires proactive planning and a robust approach to managing asthma. The asthma score reflects the need for careful consideration and preparation to ensure effective healthcare access.

**Conclusion**

The asthma score for 17820 reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural environment. While the area offers a peaceful lifestyle, the transportation challenges and limited healthcare options pose significant considerations for individuals managing asthma. A thorough understanding of these factors is essential for making an informed decision about moving to Catawissa. The ability to effectively manage asthma depends on a proactive approach to transportation and healthcare access.