17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17850, Montandon, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.81 percent of residents in 17850 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 13.28 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Montandon, PA (ZIP Code 17850)

The decision to relocate, particularly to a new environment like Montandon, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17850), often involves a complex evaluation of various factors. For individuals managing asthma, a critical consideration is the ease of **healthcare access**, specifically the ability to reach medical facilities quickly and reliably. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the **transportation** landscape of Montandon, assessing drive times, public transit options, and alternative modes of transport to healthcare providers, providing a framework for informed decision-making.

Montandon, nestled in the heart of Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for those with asthma. The rural setting, while offering a respite from urban pollution, necessitates careful planning for medical appointments and emergency situations. The primary focus is on the practical aspects of getting to and from healthcare, acknowledging the potential impact of these factors on asthma management.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The most common mode of **transportation** in Montandon is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to key healthcare facilities is paramount. The primary route to larger hospitals and specialist clinics involves navigating the network of roads and highways.

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional healthcare provider, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive from Montandon. The journey typically involves taking PA-45 East, a scenic but often busy route, followed by a turn onto Interstate 80 East. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel time, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to stress and prolonged exposure to vehicle exhaust.

For those seeking urgent care or primary care within a shorter distance, Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg offers a viable alternative. The drive, predominantly via PA-45 West and US-15 South, is generally around 15-20 minutes. This shorter commute is a significant advantage for individuals requiring frequent medical attention or facing sudden asthma exacerbations.

Smaller clinics and physician offices located in Milton and Lewisburg offer additional options. Drive times to these facilities range from 10-20 minutes, depending on the specific location and route taken. These shorter commutes can be a significant advantage for those who require regular check-ups or quick access to medical care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**

Public **transportation** options in Montandon are limited, posing a significant challenge for those who do not have access to a personal vehicle. The Susquehanna Transit Authority (STA) provides bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules may not always align with the needs of individuals with asthma.

STA Route 22, which connects Milton to Lewisburg, offers a potential option for accessing healthcare facilities in those towns. However, the frequency of service is limited, and the route may not directly serve all medical offices. Furthermore, the accessibility of STA buses for individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility issues related to asthma, should be carefully considered. The availability of ramps, lifts, and designated seating for individuals with disabilities is crucial.

The lack of comprehensive public **transportation** underscores the importance of planning and pre-booking appointments, ensuring sufficient time for travel, and exploring alternative modes of transport. The reliance on personal vehicles or the need for assistance from family or friends is often the reality for those relying on public transit.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Montandon area, providing a potential alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of drivers can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of ride-share services can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with travel to medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. These services, such as MedTrans and CareRide, provide non-emergency medical **transportation** with trained personnel and accessible vehicles. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during travel. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and prior booking is essential.

**Moving to Montandon: Asthma Considerations**

When considering **moving to Montandon**, individuals with asthma must factor in the challenges of **healthcare access**. The rural environment presents both advantages and disadvantages. The cleaner air may be beneficial, but the limited **transportation** options necessitate careful planning.

The availability of emergency medical services is also a crucial consideration. Understanding the response times of local emergency services and the proximity of hospitals equipped to handle asthma-related emergencies is essential.

Furthermore, the availability of asthma specialists and pulmonary care services in the region should be investigated. The ability to access specialized care quickly and efficiently is crucial for effective asthma management.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Asthma Score" for Montandon, PA (ZIP Code 17850) highlights the importance of understanding the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**. While the area offers a potentially healthier environment, the limited public **transportation** options and reliance on personal vehicles require careful consideration.

Individuals with asthma should meticulously assess their **transportation** needs, considering drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and medical **transportation** services. Proactive planning, including pre-booking appointments, coordinating **transportation**, and establishing a clear emergency plan, is crucial for successful asthma management in this rural setting. The decision to relocate should be informed by a thorough understanding of these factors, ensuring that the benefits of a new environment are not overshadowed by the challenges of accessing timely and reliable healthcare. The ability to navigate the **transportation** network is a key factor in the quality of life and the successful management of asthma.