17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17922, Auburn, Pennsylvania is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.71 percent of residents in 17922 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 4.57 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Auburn, PA (ZIP Code 17922)

Considering a move to Auburn, Pennsylvania, ZIP code 17922, and managing asthma? This analysis offers a detailed "Asthma Score" based on transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for maintaining health and quality of life. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation methods, providing a realistic picture of healthcare access in this Schuylkill County community.

The primary concern for individuals with asthma is timely access to medical care during exacerbations. This necessitates a clear understanding of transportation options, particularly during emergencies. This write-up assesses the practicalities of getting to a doctor, specialist, or hospital, evaluating the ease and reliability of each mode of transportation.

Driving, of course, is a primary mode of transportation in rural areas like Auburn. The major arteries for healthcare access are Route 895 and Route 901. Route 895, heading east, connects Auburn to Orwigsburg, where the Schuylkill Medical Center–South is located. The drive is typically a swift 10-15 minutes, assuming clear traffic conditions. Route 901 offers a route north towards Pottsville, a journey of approximately 20-25 minutes, providing access to larger hospitals and specialist practices.

However, traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter months, can further complicate travel. The Asthma Score will consider these factors, recognizing that reliable transportation is paramount for managing asthma effectively.

Public transportation options are limited in Auburn. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed for frequent healthcare visits. The nearest STS routes, if any, likely operate along Route 895 or Route 901, but their frequency and coverage may not be sufficient for regular doctor appointments or emergency situations. Information on specific routes, including ADA accessibility features, requires direct inquiry to STS.

The lack of robust public transit emphasizes the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation. For individuals unable to drive, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft may offer a solution. However, their availability in Auburn is not guaranteed and can be subject to surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather. Reliable access to these services should not be assumed.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transport providers, are another option. These services specialize in transporting individuals with medical needs, including those with asthma. However, they can be expensive and may require advance booking. The Asthma Score will consider the cost and availability of these services.

Healthcare access extends beyond simply reaching a doctor's office. The location of pharmacies, urgent care centers, and specialist practices is equally important. In Auburn, the nearest pharmacies are likely located in Orwigsburg or Pottsville. Urgent care facilities are also likely found in these towns. The availability of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists will require travel to larger medical centers, potentially increasing the travel time and complexity of healthcare access.

The Asthma Score will incorporate these factors, acknowledging that comprehensive healthcare access encompasses the entire spectrum of medical needs. It will also consider the availability of telehealth services, which can provide remote consultations and follow-up care, reducing the need for in-person visits.

Moving to Auburn with asthma requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. While the area offers a peaceful, rural environment, the limitations in transportation can impact healthcare access. The Asthma Score is not merely a numerical value; it is a holistic assessment of the practical realities of managing asthma in this community.

The score will evaluate the following key elements: drive times to primary care physicians, specialist availability, public transportation reliability, ride-sharing accessibility, and the availability of medical transport services. Each element will be weighted based on its importance to asthma management.

The score will also factor in the availability of pharmacies, urgent care centers, and hospitals, recognizing that prompt access to medication and emergency care is critical. The frequency and reliability of public transportation, including ADA accessibility, will be carefully assessed.

The Asthma Score will also consider the cost of transportation, including fuel expenses, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport charges. It will also assess the availability of telehealth services, which can reduce the need for in-person visits.

The final score will provide a clear and concise picture of healthcare access in Auburn, PA. It will serve as a valuable resource for individuals with asthma considering a move to this community, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide a realistic and practical assessment of healthcare access, empowering individuals with asthma to navigate the transportation landscape and make informed decisions about their health. The Asthma Score is designed to be a comprehensive guide, considering all facets of transportation and healthcare access in Auburn, PA (17922).