18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18925, Furlong, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.02 percent of residents in 18925 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Doylestown Hospital with a distance of 3.72 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Furlong, PA (ZIP Code 18925)

The crisp air and rolling hills of Furlong, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18925), offer a bucolic charm, attracting families and individuals seeking a respite from the urban clamor. However, for those managing asthma, the allure of this Bucks County haven must be weighed against practical considerations, particularly **healthcare access** and the challenges of **transportation**. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the accessibility of medical care within and around Furlong, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions, all crucial factors for residents managing respiratory conditions. This information is especially pertinent for anyone **moving to Furlong**, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The cornerstone of any asthma management plan is regular medical care. In Furlong, the nearest immediate care options are located in Doylestown, approximately a 10-15 minute drive, depending on traffic. Accessing these facilities typically involves navigating the relatively straightforward route along **PA-263 (York Road)**, a primary artery connecting Furlong to the larger towns. During peak hours, traffic can slow down, particularly near intersections, potentially adding to the commute time and exacerbating anxiety for someone experiencing asthma symptoms. The ease of this drive is a significant advantage for residents.

For more specialized care, including pulmonologists and allergists, the options expand, but so do the travel times. Doylestown Hospital, a major healthcare provider, is a 15-20 minute drive via PA-263. Further afield, Philadelphia offers a wider array of specialists and hospitals, but the commute becomes considerably more complex. Reaching the city involves a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic, primarily using **PA-611 (Easton Road)**, which merges into the **US-202** corridor, and then eventually connects to major highways like **I-95**. This journey can be stressful, especially during rush hour, and the increased time spent in a vehicle, potentially exposed to allergens or irritants, could trigger asthma symptoms.

Public transit in Furlong offers limited options, posing a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)** provides bus service in the area. The **Route 132** bus offers limited service, with stops along **York Road**, potentially providing access to some medical facilities in Doylestown. However, the frequency of these routes is often limited, and the travel times can be significantly longer than driving. Furthermore, the accessibility of these buses for individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility issues related to asthma, is crucial. The SEPTA website details ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on its buses, including ramps and designated seating. Careful consideration of route schedules and accessibility is essential for those reliant on public transit for healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another **transportation** alternative. These services are readily available in the Furlong area, offering on-demand transport to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be unpredictable. Individuals relying on ride-sharing must factor in potential wait times and the cost implications when planning their healthcare access.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, represent another option. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide offer specialized transport, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be invaluable for individuals who cannot drive themselves or rely on public transit. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing or public transit. Researching available medical transport options in the area is crucial for anyone with asthma, particularly if they have mobility limitations or require specialized assistance.

The environmental factors in Furlong also warrant consideration. While the area boasts a relatively clean environment compared to urban centers, seasonal allergens, such as pollen, can trigger asthma symptoms. Furthermore, the presence of mold or dust mites in homes can also exacerbate respiratory issues. Residents with asthma should be proactive in managing their environment, including regular cleaning, using air purifiers, and monitoring pollen counts.

In summary, the "Asthma Score" for Furlong, PA (ZIP Code 18925), reflects a mixed bag of advantages and challenges. The proximity to Doylestown offers relatively easy access to immediate care. However, the limited public transit options, the potential for traffic delays, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially costly ride-sharing services present significant hurdles for those managing asthma. The distance to specialized care in Philadelphia adds further complexity.

For individuals **moving to Furlong** with asthma, careful planning is essential. This includes: establishing a primary care physician and specialist network, understanding the limitations of public transit, researching ride-sharing and medical transport options, and implementing environmental controls to minimize allergen exposure. The ability to drive, or the availability of a reliable caregiver, significantly enhances **healthcare access**. While Furlong offers a desirable lifestyle, a proactive approach to **transportation** and healthcare management is crucial for ensuring optimal asthma control and overall well-being.