17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17934, Gilberton, Pennsylvania is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.08 percent of residents in 17934 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 8.08 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Gilberton, PA (ZIP Code 17934)

The air hangs heavy in the Anthracite Region, a legacy of coal dust and industrial history. For residents of Gilberton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17934), managing asthma is a daily reality intertwined with the challenges of accessing healthcare. This report, the "Asthma Score," assesses the transportation landscape, a critical factor influencing healthcare access for those with respiratory sensitivities, particularly those considering moving to Gilberton. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the practicalities of reaching medical care, empowering informed decisions for individuals and families.

The "Asthma Score" considers several key elements: drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation options. Each of these elements contributes to the overall ease or difficulty of accessing necessary medical care, directly impacting the quality of life for asthma sufferers. This analysis focuses on the major healthcare providers serving the region, recognizing that timely access to medical attention is paramount for managing asthma effectively.

Drive times represent a significant hurdle. Gilberton, nestled in Schuylkill County, is not a hub of immediate healthcare options. The nearest major hospital, **Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital – Orwigsburg**, is approximately a 20-minute drive via **PA-924** and **US-209**. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be impacted by traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, presents another challenge. For those experiencing an asthma exacerbation, every minute counts, and the potential for delays can be anxiety-inducing.

Other healthcare providers, such as urgent care facilities and specialized clinics, are scattered throughout the region. **Lehigh Valley Hospital – Schuylkill (South)** in Pottsville, reachable via **PA-924** and **PA-61**, is roughly a 25-minute drive. This option offers a broader range of services but adds to the overall travel time. These drive times, while manageable for many, can become problematic during emergencies or for those without personal vehicles. Furthermore, the condition of the roads, and the potential for traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, should be considered.

Public transportation, a vital lifeline for those without personal vehicles, presents a more complex picture. The **Schuylkill Transportation System (STS)** provides bus service throughout the county. However, service frequency and route coverage in Gilberton and the surrounding areas are limited. Route 40, for example, connects Pottsville with Shenandoah, passing through Gilberton. This route operates on a limited schedule, with fewer trips on weekends and holidays. The absence of direct routes to many healthcare facilities necessitates multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and the potential for exposure to environmental triggers.

The accessibility of STS buses is also a critical consideration. While STS strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, the availability of features like wheelchair lifts and audio-visual announcements can vary. Furthermore, the long travel times and potential for exposure to allergens on public transport can exacerbate asthma symptoms. The practicality of relying on public transit for urgent medical needs is, therefore, questionable.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in rural areas like Gilberton is often inconsistent. While these services may be available, wait times can be extended, and the cost can be prohibitive, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing, therefore, is not a guaranteed solution for healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including **American Medical Response (AMR)** and smaller, local providers. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and prior arrangements are typically required, making them less suitable for emergencies. The availability of these services, and the associated costs, must be factored into any assessment of healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Gilberton, the transportation landscape presents a nuanced challenge. While the drive times to major healthcare facilities are relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles is significant. Public transportation options are limited and may not be suitable for individuals with severe asthma. Ride-sharing services are not consistently available, and medical transportation is costly.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Gilberton reflects these complexities. The score will be lower for individuals without personal vehicles or those with severe asthma requiring frequent medical interventions. The score will be higher for those with access to reliable transportation and the financial resources to utilize medical transportation services.

In conclusion, while Gilberton offers a quiet, rural setting, the challenges of accessing healthcare for asthma sufferers are real. The transportation infrastructure demands careful consideration. Before making a move, potential residents should thoroughly assess their transportation needs, the availability of healthcare providers, and the financial implications of accessing medical care. For those with asthma, a proactive approach to planning transportation is critical for ensuring timely access to treatment and maintaining a good quality of life. Understanding these transportation challenges is vital for making informed decisions about healthcare access and managing asthma effectively in Gilberton.