18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

94.74 percent of residents in 18817 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 8.39 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in East Smithfield (ZIP Code 18817)

The crisp air of East Smithfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18817), offers a bucolic charm, yet for individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This analysis, a crucial component of an “Asthma Score,” delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. A robust transportation network is essential for managing asthma, ensuring timely access to medication, specialist appointments, and emergency care. This write-up explores the complexities of healthcare access in this rural region, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is critical for anyone considering moving to East Smithfield, Pennsylvania, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 18817 is the reliance on personal vehicles. The nearest major healthcare facilities are concentrated in the surrounding towns, necessitating travel via a network of highways and local roads. The primary artery for accessing these facilities is Pennsylvania Route 14 (PA-14), which snakes north and south through the region. Driving south on PA-14 provides access to the Guthrie Troy Community Hospital in Troy, a vital resource for local residents. The drive time to Troy, approximately 15 miles, can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Further afield, larger hospitals and specialist clinics are located in Sayre, Pennsylvania, and Elmira, New York. Reaching Sayre requires a drive south on PA-14, then connecting to U.S. Route 220 (US-220). The journey to Sayre, roughly 25 miles, typically takes 35 to 45 minutes. This route is generally well-maintained, but seasonal weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter months, can significantly extend travel times. Elmira, New York, offers even more specialized medical services. The drive to Elmira involves traveling north on PA-14, crossing the state line, and then navigating local roads. This trip, approximately 30 miles, can take 45 minutes to an hour, again contingent on traffic and weather.

Public transportation options are limited in East Smithfield, posing a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles. The availability of public transit is a critical factor in the Asthma Score. The lack of robust public transportation options directly impacts healthcare access for those who cannot drive, or prefer not to. The local public transit system, if any, may be limited in its service area and frequency. This scarcity necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, adding complexity to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the region, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The reliability of these services depends on driver availability, which is often influenced by demand and time of day. Securing a ride-share to a medical appointment may require advance planning and could be subject to delays. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or long-distance travel.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services, often provided by ambulance companies or private medical transport providers, are equipped to transport patients safely and comfortably. They are particularly crucial for individuals who require assistance with mobility or have medical conditions that necessitate specialized care during transport. However, medical transport services can be costly, and availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features of any public transportation are essential for individuals with disabilities, including those with asthma. The availability of accessible routes, ramps, and other accommodations is a critical consideration for the Asthma Score. The lack of such features can severely limit healthcare access for individuals with mobility challenges.

The impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access is significant. The drive times to healthcare facilities, combined with the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, can create barriers to care. This is particularly true for individuals with asthma, who may require frequent medical attention, including emergency visits. The Asthma Score must therefore reflect the challenges of accessing healthcare in this rural setting.

The quality of life in East Smithfield is undeniably appealing, but the transportation challenges must be carefully considered. The Asthma Score is a crucial tool for evaluating the suitability of the area for individuals with asthma. The score should reflect the drive times, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, and the overall accessibility of healthcare services.

The analysis of healthcare access in East Smithfield reveals a complex landscape. While the region offers a tranquil environment, the transportation infrastructure presents significant challenges for individuals with asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services can create barriers to timely and consistent healthcare access. The Asthma Score should reflect these realities, providing a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities for individuals with asthma considering a move to East Smithfield. The availability of specialized medical transport and the distance to specialist care are key considerations in this assessment.