17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 17979, Summit Station, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.44 percent of residents in 17979 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital with a distance of 8.04 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Summit Station (ZIP Code 17979)

The crisp air of Summit Station, Pennsylvania, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Schuylkill County, offers a seemingly idyllic existence. However, for individuals managing asthma, the reality of accessing healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This analysis, a localized “Asthma Score” assessment, explores the landscape of transportation options available within and around ZIP Code 17979, a vital factor in determining healthcare access for residents, especially those contemplating a move to this charming community.

The primary concern for asthmatics centers on the promptness and reliability of healthcare access. Delays in reaching medical attention during an asthma exacerbation can have serious consequences. Therefore, this evaluation meticulously examines the available transportation modalities, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all within the context of their potential impact on an individual's ability to receive timely medical care.

The cornerstone of transportation in Summit Station, as with much of rural Pennsylvania, is the personal vehicle. The primary thoroughfare connecting Summit Station to larger population centers and medical facilities is **Route 901**. Traveling east on Route 901 provides direct access to Pottsville, the county seat, where several hospitals and specialist practices are located. The drive to Schuylkill Medical Center – South Jackson Street in Pottsville, a critical healthcare provider, typically takes around 20 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions.

However, traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak commuting hours. **Route 61**, a major north-south artery, intersects with Route 901 a short distance east of Summit Station. While Route 61 offers a faster route to Reading, Pennsylvania, and its more extensive healthcare resources, the drive, encompassing approximately 45 minutes, can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, especially during rush hour.

The secondary roads, such as **Schuylkill Mountain Road** and **Pine Creek Drive**, offer alternative routes, but these winding, often narrow roads, are less direct and can be challenging during inclement weather. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can also pose a significant challenge to timely healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Summit Station are limited. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service throughout the county. However, the routes serving Summit Station are infrequent, and their schedules may not align with the urgent needs of an asthmatic experiencing a flare-up. The closest STS bus stop to Summit Station is located in Tremont, approximately a 10-minute drive away. The bus route, designated as **Route 31**, provides service to Pottsville, but the frequency of service is limited, with only a few trips per day.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility challenges related to asthma, is a crucial consideration. STS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA-compliant features. However, the limited service frequency and the potential for extended travel times could pose significant difficulties for asthmatics requiring immediate medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Summit Station is less consistent than in more densely populated areas. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the demand. Securing a ride-share during an asthma emergency could be challenging, leading to potentially dangerous delays in reaching a medical facility.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to address the needs of patients requiring non-emergency transportation to medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Several companies operate in the area, including MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR). These services typically require advance booking and are not ideal for urgent situations. However, they can be a valuable resource for scheduled appointments and follow-up care.

The availability of emergency medical services (EMS) is another critical factor. The Summit Station Volunteer Fire Company provides emergency medical services to the community. However, the response time of EMS, while generally prompt, is subject to factors such as the location of the emergency and the availability of personnel.

The geographical location of Summit Station, while offering a sense of tranquility, presents inherent challenges to healthcare access. The limited public transportation options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for traffic delays on major roadways all contribute to a complex transportation landscape for asthmatics.

The Asthma Score, in this context, is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. For individuals with asthma considering a move to Summit Station, a thorough understanding of these transportation realities is crucial.

The drive to Pottsville, while relatively short, is the most reliable option for accessing immediate medical care. The reliance on personal vehicles, however, underscores the importance of maintaining a reliable mode of transportation and ensuring access to emergency medical services.

The limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services highlight the need for asthmatics to plan their healthcare access carefully. Establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and understanding the availability of medical transport services are essential steps in mitigating the risks associated with delayed medical attention.

Moving to Summit Station can be a rewarding experience. However, for individuals with asthma, a proactive approach to healthcare access is paramount. This includes understanding the limitations of the transportation infrastructure, establishing a network of support, and developing a contingency plan for medical emergencies.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score for Summit Station reflects the need for a multi-faceted approach to healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the realities of transportation necessitate careful planning and a proactive commitment to managing asthma effectively. The journey to healthcare access in Summit Station demands vigilance, preparation, and a keen awareness of the transportation options available, ensuring that residents with asthma can live a full and healthy life in this charming Pennsylvania community.