17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17931, Frackville, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.15 percent of residents in 17931 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 7.12 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Frackville, PA (ZIP Code 17931)**

The quaint borough of Frackville, nestled in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, offers a charming lifestyle, drawing newcomers seeking a slower pace. However, for individuals with asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a paramount concern. This assessment delves into the complexities of commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 17931, focusing on transportation options and their suitability for those managing respiratory conditions. The Asthma Score, as we'll call it, is a crucial factor for anyone *moving to Frackville* with asthma.

The very air quality in Frackville, influenced by its industrial past and surrounding environment, should be considered. This assessment, though, zeroes in on the practicalities of *transportation* to medical appointments, from routine check-ups to emergency care.

**Driving Times and Road Conditions:**

For those preferring the autonomy of personal vehicles, the primary route to healthcare centers involves navigating the roadways. The closest major healthcare provider is the Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg, approximately 15 miles east of Frackville. This journey typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary route is the **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, a major north-south artery.

Leaving Frackville, drivers will likely begin their journey on **Pennsylvania Route 924**, a local road that merges onto **I-81**. The **I-81** is generally well-maintained, but during inclement weather, such as snow or ice, travel times can increase significantly. Furthermore, the mountainous terrain in this region can present challenges for drivers, especially those with limited experience.

Alternative routes, such as utilizing **Pennsylvania Route 54** east towards Ashland and then connecting to **Pennsylvania Route 61** south, offer options, but they can be slower and potentially more stressful due to winding roads and varying traffic conditions. These routes may also expose individuals to higher levels of vehicle exhaust.

**Public Transit Accessibility:**

Public transit options in Frackville are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those reliant on alternatives to driving. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, service frequency and route coverage are limited, particularly for areas outside of the main towns.

The primary bus routes serving Frackville are the 51 and 52. These routes offer connections to Pottsville, the county seat, where additional healthcare facilities and transfer points are available. Unfortunately, the STS schedules may not always align with medical appointment times. Riders should consult the STS website or call for the most up-to-date schedules.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical factor. STS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the availability of accessible stops and the ease of navigating transfer points can vary. Individuals with asthma, who may also have mobility issues, should contact STS to confirm the accessibility of specific routes and stops.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Frackville area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are an alternative. These services, such as MedRide or First Transit, provide door-to-door transportation and are often equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. However, these services may require advance booking and may not be available for all healthcare providers.

**Air Quality Considerations and Environmental Factors:**

Beyond the mechanics of getting to appointments, the environmental conditions along the commute are significant. The proximity of industrial areas and the potential for air pollution along major roadways, such as **I-81**, can exacerbate asthma symptoms. Individuals with asthma should be mindful of air quality alerts and consider adjusting their travel plans accordingly.

The seasonal variations in air quality, including pollen counts and humidity levels, also play a role. During peak allergy seasons, individuals may experience increased asthma symptoms, making travel more challenging.

**Healthcare Access and the Asthma Score:**

The Asthma Score for commuting to healthcare in Frackville is influenced by several factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, while offering flexibility, can be affected by weather and traffic. The limited public transit options and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability introduce challenges for those without personal vehicles.

The availability of medical transportation services and the consideration of environmental factors, such as air quality and seasonal variations, are also crucial.

**Conclusion:**

For individuals with asthma *moving to Frackville*, a comprehensive assessment of healthcare *transportation* options is essential. While driving offers the most flexibility, the limited public transit, the variability of ride-sharing, and the need to consider air quality and environmental factors create challenges. The Asthma Score, therefore, requires careful consideration of individual needs and preferences. It is imperative to research the available services, plan routes in advance, and be prepared for potential delays or disruptions. Prioritizing healthcare *access* is critical for managing asthma effectively in this charming, yet geographically challenging, community.