18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18818, Friendsville, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.04 percent of residents in 18818 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 22.69 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Friendsville, PA (ZIP Code 18818)

The crisp mountain air of Friendsville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18818) offers a bucolic charm, a haven for those seeking respite from urban clamor. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the tranquility of this Sullivan County community hinges on a critical factor: reliable access to healthcare. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available for residents needing medical attention, considering the unique challenges posed by the region's geography and limited public infrastructure. It's a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Friendsville**, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The cornerstone of **healthcare access** in Friendsville is the availability of medical facilities. The nearest primary care physician and specialist options are primarily located in Montrose, PA, approximately 25 miles east. This distance, combined with the often-unpredictable weather patterns of the region, presents a significant hurdle for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation. Time is of the essence in such situations, and every minute spent navigating the journey can impact the patient's well-being.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Friendsville residents is personal vehicle. The drive to Montrose involves navigating a network of rural roads and highways. The most direct route typically utilizes Pennsylvania Route 4001 (also known as the Dushore Road) east, connecting to US Route 6. This stretch is generally well-maintained, but can experience delays during peak travel times and inclement weather. Alternatively, travelers can opt for the more scenic, but potentially slower, Pennsylvania Route 87, which winds its way through the mountains.

The drive-time to Montrose, under ideal conditions, is approximately 35-45 minutes. However, this estimate can fluctuate dramatically. During periods of heavy snowfall, icy conditions, or even dense fog, the journey can extend to an hour or more. This extended travel time poses a substantial risk for individuals experiencing an asthma attack, potentially delaying access to life-saving medical interventions. The condition of the roads and the potential for delays should be carefully considered when assessing the suitability of Friendsville for individuals with asthma.

Public **transportation** options in Sullivan County are extremely limited. The county does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This severely restricts **healthcare access** for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or those unable to drive due to their condition. The absence of readily available public transit necessitates reliance on alternative modes of **transportation**, which can be costly and less reliable.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not as consistent or widespread as in more populated areas. Availability can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. The cost of a ride-share to Montrose can also be substantial, adding a significant financial burden to **healthcare access**. The reliability of ride-sharing services should not be assumed, and alternative arrangements should always be considered.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), are crucial for individuals with asthma. The availability of these services in Friendsville is generally adequate, but response times can be affected by the rural nature of the area. Ambulance services are typically dispatched from nearby towns and hospitals, and the time it takes to reach a patient can be longer than in urban settings. This delay can be critical during a severe asthma attack.

NEMT services, which provide **transportation** to and from medical appointments, are also available. However, these services often require advance booking, and availability can be limited. The cost of NEMT can be significant, and the need to pre-arrange rides can be a logistical challenge for patients.

The **Asthma Score** for Friendsville, PA, reflects the challenges inherent in **healthcare access** in a rural environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential for weather-related delays all contribute to a less-than-ideal situation for individuals with asthma. While medical **transportation** services are available, their cost and the need for pre-arrangement add to the complexity.

For individuals **moving to Friendsville** with asthma, careful planning and preparation are essential. Establishing a strong relationship with a local primary care physician and specialist is crucial. Having a well-defined asthma action plan, including readily available medications and an emergency protocol, is paramount.

Furthermore, individuals should explore all available **transportation** options and develop contingency plans for emergencies. This might include identifying reliable friends or family members who can provide **transportation**, or researching and pre-arranging NEMT services. Understanding the limitations of **healthcare access** in Friendsville is vital for managing asthma effectively and ensuring a good quality of life.

The ideal scenario would involve an expansion of public **transportation** options, including the potential for a county-wide bus system, or the establishment of a shuttle service specifically designed to transport residents to medical appointments. Increased availability and affordability of ride-sharing services would also significantly improve **healthcare access**.

In conclusion, while Friendsville offers a peaceful and scenic environment, its remoteness presents significant challenges for individuals with asthma. Careful consideration of the **transportation** infrastructure, the availability of medical services, and the need for proactive planning are crucial for anyone with asthma considering **moving to Friendsville**. The **Asthma Score** for this area is moderate, highlighting the need for vigilance, preparedness, and a strong partnership with the healthcare system to ensure effective asthma management.