17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17829, Hartleton, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

45.11 percent of residents in 17829 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 23.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 29.05 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hartleton (ZIP Code 17829)

Relocating to a new community, especially with pre-existing health conditions like asthma, demands careful consideration of healthcare access. This analysis, the "Asthma Score," examines the transportation landscape surrounding Hartleton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17829), focusing on the practicalities of reaching medical facilities, crucial for managing asthma effectively. The goal is to illuminate the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking healthcare, providing a comprehensive understanding of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access**. For those **moving to Hartleton**, this information is paramount.

Hartleton, nestled in central Pennsylvania, presents a unique geographical profile. The rural setting, while offering scenic beauty and a slower pace of life, influences the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options. The nearest major healthcare providers are located in larger towns and cities, requiring reliance on personal vehicles, limited public **transportation**, and potentially, specialized medical **transportation** services.

The primary artery connecting Hartleton to the outside world is Route 45. This two-lane highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, especially around the towns of Mifflinburg and Lewisburg. Travel times to healthcare facilities in these areas will vary depending on the time of day and weather conditions.

Lewisburg, approximately a 15-minute drive from Hartleton via Route 45, hosts Evangelical Community Hospital, a significant healthcare provider. Reaching the hospital during rush hour could extend the journey to 25 minutes. Further, the hospital's location on Hospital Drive, accessed from Route 45, necessitates navigating local roads, adding to the overall travel time. Route 192, another key road, provides an alternative route to Lewisburg, though it's generally slower than Route 45.

Mifflinburg, a slightly closer destination, roughly 10 minutes away via Route 45, features smaller clinics and physician offices. However, the concentration of healthcare resources is less than in Lewisburg. The drive is usually straightforward, but potential delays could arise from traffic or road work.

Beyond these immediate destinations, more specialized care might require travel to larger cities like Williamsport or State College. Reaching Williamsport, approximately a 45-minute drive via Route 15 North, offers access to UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Hospital. The journey involves a portion of interstate travel, making it generally faster than local roads. State College, about an hour's drive via Route 45 West and Interstate 99, hosts Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a major regional medical center. These longer drives, while offering greater healthcare options, pose a significant challenge for individuals with asthma, particularly during acute exacerbations.

Public **transportation** options in and around Hartleton are limited. The primary provider is the Union County TransitUnion County Transit Authority (UCTA). While UCTA offers fixed-route services, the frequency and coverage in rural areas are restricted. The UCTA does provide demand-response services, which require advance booking, potentially adding to the time needed to reach appointments. These services may offer door-to-door **transportation**, which can be beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations.

The UCTA vehicles are generally equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the availability of these services is contingent on booking availability and the operational hours of the transit system. For those with asthma, the unpredictable nature of public **transportation**, with potential delays and exposure to environmental triggers, could present additional challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Hartleton are variable. Ride-sharing services may be more readily accessible in Lewisburg and Williamsport. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, particularly for frequent trips to healthcare appointments. The wait times for a ride-share vehicle can also be unpredictable, impacting the ability to arrive at appointments on time.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer another option. These services typically provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Several medical **transportation** providers operate in the region, including Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare. The availability and cost of these services vary, and pre-booking is essential. This option offers a more controlled environment, which can be particularly beneficial for asthma sufferers.

The "Asthma Score" for Hartleton considers the accessibility and reliability of all **transportation** options. The score is influenced by the drive times to healthcare facilities, the frequency and coverage of public **transportation**, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical **transportation** options. The lack of robust public **transportation** and the reliance on personal vehicles or specialized services contribute to a moderate score.

For individuals with asthma, the key considerations include the ability to quickly access medical care during an asthma attack. The drive times to the nearest emergency rooms, the reliability of **transportation** options in adverse weather conditions, and the availability of oxygen and other medical support during **transportation** are crucial factors.

Furthermore, the cost of **transportation** must be factored into the overall healthcare budget. The expense of personal vehicle maintenance, fuel costs, ride-sharing fees, and medical **transportation** services can significantly impact the financial burden of managing asthma.

In conclusion, Hartleton presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals with asthma. The rural setting necessitates careful planning and reliance on various **transportation** methods to access healthcare. While the drive times to nearby healthcare facilities are relatively short, the limitations of public **transportation** and the variable availability of ride-sharing services require proactive planning. For those **moving to Hartleton**, a thorough assessment of these **transportation** factors is essential for ensuring effective asthma management and maintaining a good quality of life. The availability of medical **transportation** services offers a valuable resource, but it's essential to understand the costs and pre-booking requirements. By carefully considering these elements, individuals can make informed decisions about **healthcare access** and successfully navigate the **transportation** landscape of Hartleton.