17859, Orangeville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17859, Orangeville, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.98 percent of residents in 17859 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 4.23 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Orangeville (ZIP Code 17859)

The crisp air of Orangeville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17859), nestled amidst rolling hills and fertile farmland, presents a bucolic image. For those managing asthma, however, the reality of healthcare access becomes a critical consideration. This analysis, an "Asthma Score" write-up, explores the complexities of transportation to healthcare facilities from Orangeville, providing vital information for residents and those contemplating a move. We will examine the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options, all crucial elements in determining the ease and reliability of reaching medical care, especially during an asthma exacerbation.

The Asthma Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of the challenges and opportunities in accessing healthcare. It considers the time, cost, and effort required to reach medical professionals and specialized asthma care. This is particularly important for individuals with asthma, who require prompt and consistent access to medication, monitoring, and emergency care. The score will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure, offering a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access situation in Orangeville.

**Driving the Landscape: Highways and Byways**

For many Orangeville residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Understanding the drive times to various healthcare providers is paramount. The primary artery connecting Orangeville to larger towns and cities is **Route 487**. This road, while scenic, can become congested during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Traveling south on Route 487, you'll eventually reach **Interstate 80**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Accessing I-80 from Orangeville requires navigating smaller roads like **Main Street** and **Mill Street**, which can add to the overall travel time. The nearest major hospitals and specialist clinics are located in Bloomsburg and Danville, both accessible via I-80.

A drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a well-regarded regional hospital, typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Bloomsburg Hospital, a closer option, is usually a 20-30 minute drive. These drive times are crucial for asthma sufferers, as a rapid response to a breathing emergency can be life-saving. The reliability of these drive times is also important; weather conditions, such as snow or ice, can significantly impact travel, potentially delaying critical medical care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Offering**

Public transportation options in and around Orangeville are limited. The availability of public transit is a significant factor in the Asthma Score, as it provides an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

The primary public transit provider in the area is the Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA). The CCTA offers bus routes, but service frequency and route coverage are limited, particularly in rural areas like Orangeville. Checking the CCTA website for current routes and schedules is essential.

Unfortunately, CCTA routes directly serving Orangeville are sparse. Most routes primarily operate within Bloomsburg and the surrounding towns. This necessitates a transfer, which can add significant time to the journey. Furthermore, the availability of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, including those experiencing asthma-related breathing difficulties. Confirming the ADA features of the bus routes is a critical step.

The lack of readily available public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals with asthma who may not be able to drive themselves or rely on others for transportation, particularly during an asthma attack. This limitation negatively impacts the Asthma Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options and Considerations**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bloomsburg and Danville areas, but their availability in Orangeville is less certain. The reliability of ride-sharing services is a key factor. The time it takes for a ride to arrive, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be a significant concern for someone experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing non-emergency medical transportation, provide another avenue. Companies like First Transit and MedStar offer transportation services to medical appointments. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, providing a valuable option for those with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a barrier for some individuals. The Asthma Score must consider the financial implications of these transportation options, as they can add to the overall cost of healthcare.

**The Asthma Score: A Summary**

The Asthma Score for healthcare access in Orangeville (ZIP Code 17859) reflects a mixed picture. The primary reliance on personal vehicles for transportation presents challenges, particularly during emergencies or adverse weather conditions. Drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable, require careful planning.

The limited public transit options and the uncertainty of ride-sharing availability in Orangeville negatively impact the score. While medical transport services offer a viable alternative, the cost can be a significant factor.

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Orangeville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to assist with transportation, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Living in Orangeville with asthma requires proactive planning. Establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider, understanding the drive times to the nearest emergency room, and having a backup transportation plan are crucial steps.

The Asthma Score emphasizes the importance of preparedness. Having an asthma action plan, including clear instructions on how to manage an asthma attack and when to seek medical attention, is vital. Ensuring that asthma medications are readily available and easily accessible is also essential.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to healthcare access. While Orangeville offers a peaceful and attractive environment, individuals with asthma must carefully consider the transportation challenges and proactively manage their healthcare needs to ensure their well-being. This includes understanding the limitations of the current transportation infrastructure and planning accordingly.