17844, Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17844, Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.66 percent of residents in 17844 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 23.19 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mifflinburg (ZIP Code 17844)

Moving to a new town, especially with health considerations like asthma, demands a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This analysis, an "Asthma Score" for Mifflinburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17844), focuses on transportation options to medical facilities, acknowledging the critical link between transportation and effective asthma management. The ability to reach a doctor quickly, especially during an asthma exacerbation, is paramount.

Mifflinburg, a charming community nestled in Union County, presents a unique transportation landscape. While the area offers a slower pace of life, healthcare access hinges on understanding the available transportation infrastructure. This includes private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each mode presents its own advantages and disadvantages, impacting the overall "Asthma Score."

For residents relying on personal vehicles, the primary routes to healthcare facilities involve navigating the local road network. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider, is approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive, depending on traffic. The journey typically involves taking **Route 45** east to **Route 147** south, then connecting to **Interstate 80** east before exiting onto **Route 11** south. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be subject to delays during peak hours or inclement weather, impacting the speed of healthcare access.

Another crucial healthcare destination is Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, about a 15- to 20-minute drive. This trip usually involves traveling south on **Route 45** to **Route 15** south. Again, traffic conditions and weather can influence the travel time. The proximity to Lewisburg offers a slightly better "Asthma Score" for those prioritizing shorter drive times.

Public transportation options in Mifflinburg are limited, which significantly impacts the "Asthma Score." The primary provider is the Union County Transportation Authority (UCTA), offering demand-response services. These services require advance booking and may not be readily available during acute asthma episodes. UCTA buses are not equipped with specific features that would enhance the experience for people with asthma.

The UCTA does offer routes that can be used to access healthcare. These routes are not fixed and are determined by the needs of the passengers. It is crucial to call the UCTA to determine whether a route is available to a desired healthcare facility. ADA accessibility is available with advance notice, further complicating rapid healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Mifflinburg area, though their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability impacts the "Asthma Score," as ride-sharing cannot be guaranteed as a rapid response option during an asthma attack. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, further influencing healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are crucial for individuals with asthma. These services offer specialized care and transportation to medical facilities. The response time of an ambulance is a critical factor in the "Asthma Score." NEMT services are often used for scheduled appointments and can be arranged in advance. These services offer a more reliable option for those who cannot drive themselves or do not have access to other forms of transportation.

The "Asthma Score" for Mifflinburg is influenced by the reliance on private vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services. The drive times to healthcare facilities are moderate, but traffic and weather can introduce delays. The lack of readily available public transit poses a significant challenge, particularly for those without access to a car or unable to drive.

For individuals with asthma, the "Asthma Score" can be improved by several factors. Having a reliable personal vehicle is essential. Knowing the fastest routes to healthcare facilities and being prepared for potential traffic delays is crucial. Maintaining a well-stocked asthma action plan and carrying rescue medication at all times is also essential.

For those considering moving to Mifflinburg with asthma, evaluating the proximity of healthcare facilities to their residence is critical. Choosing a home near a major road, such as **Route 45** or **Route 15**, could improve healthcare access. Knowing the availability of ride-sharing services in the area and developing relationships with NEMT providers is also advisable.

The "Asthma Score" is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the community's ability to support individuals with asthma. Mifflinburg's score can be improved by increasing public transportation options, improving the reliability of ride-sharing services, and promoting awareness of medical transport services.

Living with asthma in Mifflinburg requires careful planning and proactive measures. Understanding the transportation landscape, having a well-defined asthma action plan, and establishing relationships with healthcare providers are essential. By navigating the available resources and being prepared for potential challenges, individuals with asthma can successfully manage their condition and enjoy the quality of life that Mifflinburg offers. The "Asthma Score" is not static; it's a dynamic assessment that can evolve with community improvements and individual preparedness.