Health Scores Near 18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania
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The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
100.00 percent of residents in 18239 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 3.02 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania
| Asthma Score | 86 |
|---|---|
| People Score | 90 |
| Provider Score | 51 |
| Hospital Score | 73 |
| Travel Score | 36 |
| Housholds with Cars (%) | 18239 | Milnesville | Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|---|
| No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 5.04 |
| 1 Car | 100.00 | 100.00 | 21.45 |
| 2 Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 41.29 |
| 3 or More Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 18239, Milnesville, Pennsylvania
## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Milnesville (ZIP Code 18239)
The crisp mountain air of Milnesville, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18239), beckons with promises of a slower pace and a connection to nature. However, for individuals managing asthma, the tranquility of this Schuylkill County haven requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Assessing the "Asthma Score" for this area involves a deep dive into transportation options, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach crucial medical appointments and emergency care. This write-up focuses on the practical realities of navigating healthcare in and around Milnesville, providing a comprehensive overview for those contemplating a move or already residing within the community.
The primary challenge in Milnesville stems from its rural location. The nearest major medical facilities, including hospitals and specialized asthma clinics, are located in Pottsville, Hazleton, and Reading, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. The drive times, influenced by traffic and weather conditions, significantly impact the Asthma Score.
**Driving the Distance:**
The most direct route to Pottsville, home to Geisinger St. Luke’s Hospital, involves traveling approximately 15 miles via **Route 924** and **Route 61**. Under ideal conditions, the drive typically takes around 25-30 minutes. However, peak traffic hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can extend this journey considerably. Winter weather, with its potential for snow and ice, adds another layer of complexity, potentially doubling or tripling travel times.
Venturing towards Hazleton, where the Lehigh Valley Hospital-Hazleton is located, necessitates a drive of approximately 20 miles. The primary route utilizes **Route 924** and **Interstate 81 South**. The drive, usually taking about 30-40 minutes, is subject to the same traffic and weather-related delays as the Pottsville route. Interstate 81, while offering higher speed limits, can experience significant congestion, especially during accidents or construction.
Reaching Reading, a more distant option, requires a journey of approximately 50 miles, predominantly via **Interstate 81 South** and **Route 61 South**. This drive, taking roughly an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, presents the greatest potential for delays. The longer distance amplifies the impact of traffic, weather, and unforeseen incidents, potentially making emergency healthcare access a significant concern.
**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**
Public transportation options in Milnesville are extremely limited, posing a considerable challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) offers some bus routes within Schuylkill County, but service to Milnesville is infrequent and may not directly connect to healthcare facilities. The availability of accessible features, such as wheelchair lifts or ramps, is a critical consideration for individuals with disabilities.
Specifically, potential routes to consider might involve a combination of bus lines, requiring transfers and extended travel times. The lack of direct routes and the limited operating hours of the STS significantly diminish the Asthma Score for those relying on public transit. Checking the STS website for route maps, schedules, and ADA accessibility information is crucial.
**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Milnesville can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for frequent medical appointments. Booking in advance is highly recommended, but even then, cancellations or delays are possible.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and First Transit provide transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, including help with getting in and out of the vehicle. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be costly, further impacting the Asthma Score.
**Healthcare Access and Asthma Management:**
Beyond transportation, the availability of healthcare providers specializing in asthma management is crucial. While Milnesville itself may not have a dedicated asthma clinic, the surrounding towns offer options. Identifying pulmonologists, allergists, and primary care physicians with expertise in asthma care is essential. Contacting these providers to inquire about their availability, appointment scheduling processes, and acceptance of insurance is a vital step in assessing healthcare access.
The Asthma Score is also influenced by the proximity of pharmacies where asthma medications and supplies can be obtained. Checking the operating hours and availability of medications at local pharmacies is an important consideration. Furthermore, access to emergency medical services, including ambulance response times, is critical in managing asthma exacerbations.
**Moving to Milnesville: A Balanced Perspective:**
Moving to Milnesville offers a unique lifestyle, but individuals with asthma must carefully evaluate the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare planning.
Before relocating, prospective residents should:
* **Map out potential routes to healthcare facilities.**
* **Investigate the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services.**
* **Research medical transportation options.**
* **Identify local pharmacies and assess their accessibility.**
* **Contact potential healthcare providers to confirm their availability and acceptance of insurance.**
By taking these steps, individuals can gain a realistic understanding of the healthcare landscape in Milnesville and make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The Asthma Score, though challenging due to transportation limitations, can be optimized through careful planning and proactive healthcare management. The beauty and tranquility of Milnesville can be enjoyed, even with asthma, by prioritizing healthcare access and adapting to the realities of rural living.
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