17960, New Ringgold, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17960, New Ringgold, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.58 percent of residents in 17960 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.72 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 8.21 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Ringgold (ZIP Code 17960)

The crisp mountain air of New Ringgold, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17960), holds a certain allure, a promise of tranquility for those seeking respite. However, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, a critical factor impacting quality of life. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for residents and those contemplating a move to this Schuylkill County haven.

**The Asthma Score framework considers several key factors:**

* **Drive Times:** The duration of travel by car to various healthcare providers.
* **Public Transit:** Availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Share Services:** Presence and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation:** Specialized medical transport options for those with specific needs.
* **Healthcare Facility Proximity:** The distance to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.

**Drive Times: The Open Road and Potential Delays**

New Ringgold, nestled in a rural landscape, relies heavily on personal vehicles for transportation. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating the scenic but sometimes winding roads. The primary artery connecting New Ringgold to larger towns is **Route 443**, a two-lane highway that can experience increased traffic during peak hours.

For routine appointments and pharmacy visits, **Route 443** offers a relatively direct route to Tamaqua, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Tamaqua houses St. Luke's Miners Campus, a vital healthcare provider. The journey can be affected by weather conditions, especially during winter months.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further. Pottsville, the county seat, offers a wider range of medical specialists and facilities, including Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital. The drive to Pottsville, primarily via **Route 209** and then **Route 61**, typically takes 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route can experience congestion, particularly around the Pottsville area.

Allentown, a major city with comprehensive healthcare options, is approximately an hour's drive via **Interstate 78**. This highway offers a faster route but can be susceptible to delays due to accidents or heavy traffic. The need for specialized care may necessitate this longer commute.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in New Ringgold is limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides some bus routes within Schuylkill County. However, service to New Ringgold is infrequent, and routes may not directly serve healthcare facilities. This constraint significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles.

The STS does offer some routes that pass through Tamaqua, potentially connecting to St. Luke's Miners Campus. However, the frequency of these routes is limited, and transfers might be required, adding to the travel time.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features vary depending on the specific bus route. It is crucial to contact STS directly to confirm the availability of accessible features like ramps or lifts on the routes relevant to your healthcare needs.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in New Ringgold and surrounding areas. The reliability of these services can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for critical healthcare appointments is not recommended.

Medical transportation services offer specialized transport for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may be equipped with medical equipment. Several medical transport companies serve the Schuylkill County area, including:

* **Med-Trans Corporation:** A national provider with services in the region.
* **American Medical Response (AMR):** A well-known provider offering ambulance and non-emergency transport.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Check local listings for ambulance services that provide non-emergency transport.

**Healthcare Facility Proximity: A Balancing Act**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor. New Ringgold benefits from its proximity to Tamaqua, with St. Luke's Miners Campus offering a range of services. Pharmacies are readily accessible in Tamaqua and surrounding towns.

However, the need for specialized care may necessitate travel to Pottsville or Allentown, increasing travel times and potentially impacting healthcare access.

**Asthma Score Assessment: A Summary**

Considering the factors outlined above, New Ringgold presents a mixed picture for asthma sufferers. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services and the proximity to Tamaqua's healthcare facilities offer some mitigation.

**Recommendations for Asthma Sufferers Considering a Move to New Ringgold:**

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Ensure reliable access to a vehicle.
* **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Identify and pre-arrange medical transport services if needed.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Confirm the availability of asthma specialists and necessary medical services within a reasonable travel distance.
* **Consider Emergency Planning:** Develop a plan for accessing emergency medical care, including ambulance services and hospital locations.
* **Contact STS:** Confirm the availability of accessible features on the STS routes relevant to your healthcare needs.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to New Ringgold requires careful consideration of healthcare access for asthma sufferers. While the natural beauty and tranquility are appealing, the limitations in transportation necessitate proactive planning. By understanding the available options and developing a comprehensive healthcare access strategy, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate the challenges and enjoy the benefits of living in this charming community. The "Asthma Score" serves as a guide, empowering informed decisions regarding transportation and healthcare access, ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in New Ringgold.