17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17868, Riverside, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.01 percent of residents in 17868 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 1.89 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Riverside, PA (ZIP Code 17868)

The crisp air of Riverside, Pennsylvania, nestled along the Susquehanna River, might beckon with promises of tranquility, but for individuals managing asthma, the practicalities of healthcare access demand careful consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 17868, focusing on the crucial element of reaching medical appointments and emergency care. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view for residents or those considering moving to Riverside.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Riverside is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The primary artery for travel is **Route 11**, a major north-south thoroughfare that connects Riverside to nearby towns and cities. Driving south on Route 11, you'll quickly reach Danville, home to Geisinger Medical Center, a leading regional healthcare provider. The drive typically takes around 10-15 minutes, offering relatively swift access to comprehensive medical services. Heading north on Route 11 leads to Bloomsburg, where additional healthcare options exist, though the drive time is slightly longer, approximately 20-25 minutes.

Beyond Route 11, **Route 54** provides another essential route, particularly for east-west travel. It connects Riverside to surrounding communities and intersects with Route 11, creating a network of roadways. **Old Reading Road** and **Sunbury Road** offer alternative routes, though they are generally slower and less direct. During peak hours, traffic congestion is minimal, but occasional delays can occur, especially around Danville.

Public transportation options in Riverside are limited, a factor that significantly impacts the "Asthma Score." The lack of robust public transit can pose challenges for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. The **Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA)** offers a demand-response service, providing door-to-door transportation within Columbia County, including Riverside. However, this service requires advance booking, and availability can be limited, particularly during peak hours or for urgent appointments. The CCTA does not have fixed routes, and ADA accessibility is available upon request. This is a crucial element for those with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can fluctuate. The presence of ride-sharing services offers a potentially convenient alternative, but residents should anticipate longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services play a vital role for individuals with specific needs. Several medical transport providers serve the Riverside area, offering specialized transportation for patients requiring assistance. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transfers and other needs. However, it's essential to research and pre-arrange medical transport, as availability can vary.

The "Asthma Score" for Riverside is influenced by the interplay of transportation options and healthcare access. The relatively short drive times to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville offer a significant advantage. However, the limited public transit options and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges, especially for those without personal vehicles. Medical transportation services provide a valuable safety net, but their availability and cost must be considered.

When considering moving to Riverside, individuals with asthma should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements. The proximity to Geisinger Medical Center is a definite plus. However, the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation necessitates careful planning and proactive measures.

For individuals with severe asthma or frequent medical appointments, the lack of robust public transit could be a significant drawback. The CCTA's demand-response service offers a lifeline, but its limitations should be understood. The availability and reliability of ride-sharing services should also be investigated.

The "Asthma Score" for Riverside is not inherently negative, but it underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness. Residents must be prepared to navigate the transportation landscape effectively to ensure timely access to medical care. This includes having a reliable transportation plan, understanding the limitations of available services, and being prepared to utilize medical transportation when needed.

The availability of healthcare facilities in nearby towns, such as Bloomsburg and Sunbury, provides additional options. However, the drive times to these facilities should be factored into the overall assessment. The presence of urgent care facilities in the area offers a convenient option for non-emergency medical needs.

When evaluating the "Asthma Score" for Riverside, it's also essential to consider the potential impact of seasonal changes. Winter weather can create challenging driving conditions, potentially delaying travel times and increasing the risk of accidents. Summer heat and humidity can also exacerbate asthma symptoms, making timely access to medical care even more critical.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Riverside is a nuanced assessment. The proximity to Geisinger Medical Center is a significant advantage, but the limitations of public transit and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services require careful consideration. Residents with asthma must be proactive in planning their transportation needs and securing reliable access to medical care.

The "Asthma Score" is a dynamic assessment, subject to change as transportation options evolve. Residents should stay informed about any changes in public transit services, ride-sharing availability, or medical transport options. Regularly reviewing and updating their transportation plans is essential to ensure continued access to healthcare.

In conclusion, while Riverside offers a relatively accessible healthcare environment, individuals with asthma must carefully consider the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate proactive planning and resourcefulness. By understanding the available options and anticipating potential challenges, residents can effectively navigate the transportation network and ensure timely access to the medical care they need. The vibrant community of Riverside can be a welcoming place to live, but for those managing asthma, a well-defined transportation strategy is key to maintaining good health and quality of life.