17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17876, Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.56 percent of residents in 17876 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 35.09 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shamokin Dam (ZIP Code 17876)

The decision to relocate to Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania, nestled within the embrace of ZIP code 17876, is often driven by a desire for a quieter pace of life, access to the Susquehanna River, and a sense of community. However, for individuals managing asthma, the practicality of healthcare access becomes a paramount consideration. This write-up explores the nuances of "Asthma Score" – a measure of transportation accessibility to medical facilities – for residents of 17876, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements in ensuring timely and effective asthma management.

The central challenge for asthma sufferers in Shamokin Dam lies in the relatively rural nature of the area. While the town itself is small and easily navigable, the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in neighboring communities, demanding a reliance on various forms of transportation. The Asthma Score, therefore, becomes a critical tool in assessing the feasibility of living here, particularly during acute asthma exacerbations when rapid access to medical care is essential.

**Driving Directions and Time Considerations**

For those who own and operate a personal vehicle, driving is often the most direct route to healthcare. The primary arteries connecting Shamokin Dam to medical centers are US Route 11 and US Route 15. Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via US-11 South. This drive is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly near Danville, can add to the travel time.

Another option is Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, a similar distance, roughly 20-25 minutes via US-15 North. This route offers scenic views of the Susquehanna River, but can experience heavier traffic during the morning and evening commutes. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are also scattered throughout the region, offering potential options for less severe asthma symptoms, though they may not have the specialized resources of a larger hospital.

The Asthma Score considers the reliability of these drive times. Factors like weather conditions (snow, ice, fog) and time of day are crucial. A score reflecting a consistently short drive time on well-maintained roads would be favorable, while a score reflecting potential delays due to traffic or seasonal hazards would warrant careful consideration.

**Public Transportation: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation options in Shamokin Dam and the surrounding areas are limited, but not entirely absent. The Susquehanna Valley Transportation Authority (SVTA) operates a bus service that serves the region. While the routes directly serving Shamokin Dam may be infrequent, they can connect residents to hubs where transfers to other routes are possible, potentially reaching Danville or Lewisburg.

However, the Asthma Score must acknowledge the limitations of public transit. Bus schedules may not align with urgent medical needs, and the travel time can be significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, crucial for individuals with mobility issues, needs to be factored into the score. The SVTA's website and customer service are essential resources for determining route specifics, schedules, and accessibility features.

For asthma sufferers, the Asthma Score must weigh the reliability and convenience of public transit against the potential for delays and the need for multiple transfers. The score should also consider the proximity of bus stops to residences and medical facilities.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in the Shamokin Dam area, although availability may vary depending on the time of day and demand. The Asthma Score must reflect the potential for ride-sharing as a backup transportation option, particularly for non-emergency appointments or when a personal vehicle is unavailable. However, the reliability of ride-sharing, especially during inclement weather or late at night, must be carefully assessed.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are vital for individuals with asthma who require assistance getting to medical appointments. These services are specifically designed to transport patients with medical needs, including those with breathing difficulties.

The Asthma Score should incorporate the availability and responsiveness of these services. Factors to consider include the response time of ambulances, the types of vehicles offered by NEMT providers (e.g., wheelchair-accessible vehicles), and the insurance coverage for these services. Researching local medical transport providers and understanding their service areas and capabilities is essential for asthma patients.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Evaluation**

The Asthma Score for 17876 is not merely a calculation of drive times or the availability of public transit. It is a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, considering the interplay of transportation options, the proximity of medical facilities, and the specific needs of asthma patients.

The score should reflect the availability of asthma specialists, pulmonologists, and emergency care facilities. It should also consider the presence of pharmacies and the ease of prescription refills. The score should also incorporate the availability of telehealth services, which can be a valuable tool for managing asthma, particularly for routine check-ups and medication adjustments.

Moving to Shamokin Dam, or any new location, demands thorough research. For individuals with asthma, this research must extend beyond the aesthetics of the area to encompass the practicalities of healthcare access. The Asthma Score, a thoughtful synthesis of transportation options and medical resources, is an invaluable tool in making an informed decision.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Assessment**

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for a prospective resident of Shamokin Dam is a highly personalized assessment. It should be tailored to the individual's specific needs, the severity of their asthma, their ability to drive, and their comfort level with various forms of transportation.

A high Asthma Score, reflecting easy access to medical care, would be a significant advantage for individuals with severe or poorly controlled asthma. A lower score, indicating greater challenges in accessing healthcare, would necessitate a careful evaluation of the potential risks and the development of a robust asthma management plan. This plan should include emergency protocols, backup transportation options, and a clear understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision about whether Shamokin Dam is the right place for them to call home, ensuring their health and well-being are prioritized.