17952, Mary D, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17952, Mary D, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.82 percent of residents in 17952 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 7.56 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 17952

The crisp, mountain air of Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania, often draws people seeking respite. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of rural living demands a meticulous assessment of **healthcare access**. This write-up, the “Asthma Score,” evaluates the **transportation** landscape in ZIP Code 17952, focusing on the critical element of reaching medical care. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, all crucial factors for anyone **moving to Mary D** and seeking optimal asthma management.

The foundation of our score lies in understanding the geographic realities. ZIP Code 17952 encompasses the borough of Mary D and surrounding areas, a region characterized by rolling hills and a network of roads that can present challenges, especially during inclement weather. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Pottsville, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **Route 901** and **Route 61**, depending on traffic. These two highways are the primary arteries for accessing healthcare.

However, during peak hours or due to accidents, travel times can significantly increase. **Route 61**, a major thoroughfare, experiences congestion, particularly near the town of Pottsville. **Route 901**, while generally less busy, is a winding road, and its suitability for emergency medical transport needs careful consideration.

Beyond Pottsville, more specialized care may necessitate travel to larger hospitals in Reading (approximately a 1-hour drive via **Interstate 78**) or Allentown (around a 1.5-hour drive, also via **Interstate 78** and **Route 22**). These longer distances amplify the importance of reliable **transportation** and the potential for delays to impact **healthcare access**.

Public transit options in 17952 are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service within the county, but the routes serving Mary D are infrequent. Route 30, for example, might offer a connection to Pottsville, but the schedule requires careful planning. ADA accessibility, including wheelchair lifts and ramps, is available on STS buses, but the limited frequency and potential for long wait times pose a significant challenge for individuals with asthma, particularly during exacerbations.

The lack of frequent public transit underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** methods. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of these services can also add up, especially with frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical needs, offer another avenue for **healthcare access**. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare, often contracted by insurance providers, provide scheduled rides to and from medical appointments. These services can be a valuable resource, but they require advance booking and may not always be available on short notice.

The Asthma Score, therefore, considers the following factors: the proximity of medical facilities, the reliability of road networks, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical **transportation** options. The score aims to reflect the ease with which an individual with asthma can access necessary medical care in the event of an exacerbation.

**Drive Times:**

* **Pottsville (nearest hospital):** 15-20 minutes via **Route 901** and **Route 61**.
* **Reading (specialized care):** Approximately 1 hour via **Interstate 78**.
* **Allentown (specialized care):** Approximately 1.5 hours via **Interstate 78** and **Route 22**.

**Public Transit:**

* Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) – limited service. Route 30 potentially connects to Pottsville. ADA accessibility available.

**Ride-Share:**

* Uber and Lyft – availability can be variable.

**Medical Transportation:**

* MTM, LogistiCare – services available with advance booking.

**Asthma Score Considerations:**

The score considers the potential for delays due to traffic, weather conditions, and the limited availability of public transit. It also factors in the cost and reliability of ride-sharing services and the need for advance planning with medical **transportation**. The score will be weighted heavily by the ability to respond quickly to asthma-related emergencies.

For an individual **moving to Mary D** with asthma, the Asthma Score would likely reflect the following: a moderate level of **healthcare access**. While the proximity to Pottsville offers a degree of convenience, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services, coupled with limited public transit options, necessitates careful planning. The potential for longer travel times to access specialized care in Reading or Allentown further underscores the importance of having a reliable **transportation** plan.

In conclusion, while the beauty of the area may be appealing, prospective residents with asthma must diligently assess the **transportation** infrastructure. A comprehensive understanding of drive times, public transit limitations, ride-sharing reliability, and medical **transportation** options is crucial for ensuring timely and effective **healthcare access**. The Asthma Score serves as a guide, urging individuals to consider these factors when evaluating their **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 17952.