19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 19033, Folsom, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.70 percent of residents in 19033 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Crozer Chester Medical Center with a distance of 3.09 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19033**

The air hangs heavy with the promise of spring in Folsom, Pennsylvania, a community nestled within Delaware County, designated by the ZIP code 19033. For those considering a move, especially individuals managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This analysis focuses on the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease of reaching medical facilities from various points within 19033, considering factors crucial to asthma sufferers: drive times, public transit reliability, and alternative transportation options.

The Asthma Score, in this context, isn't a numerical value but a qualitative assessment of the transportation infrastructure's suitability for those with respiratory sensitivities. We'll examine the practicalities of getting to doctors' appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care, acknowledging the potential for environmental triggers during transit. The goal is to provide a clear picture of healthcare access, informing decisions about moving to Folsom and ensuring a healthy lifestyle.

Driving, the most common mode of transportation, presents a mixed bag. From many points in 19033, the primary route to major healthcare providers involves navigating the often-congested roads. The Blue Route (I-476), a major artery, can be a double-edged sword. While offering a direct route to hospitals like Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital in Darby or Crozer-Chester Medical Center in Upland, rush hour traffic can significantly extend travel times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to prolonged exposure to vehicle emissions.

Accessing these hospitals from central Folsom, using the Blue Route, typically takes 15-25 minutes in off-peak hours. However, during peak commuting times, this can easily balloon to 30-45 minutes or even longer. Local roads like MacDade Boulevard, a bustling commercial corridor, offer alternative routes, but they are frequently stop-and-go, exposing drivers and passengers to idling vehicles. The proximity to the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) also introduces the potential for increased traffic on roads like Chester Pike, impacting air quality and travel times.

Public transportation offers another option, though its suitability for asthma sufferers requires careful consideration. Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides bus service within 19033, with routes like the 113 and 114 offering connections to nearby towns and regional rail lines. These buses can be a cost-effective alternative to driving, but they present challenges.

Bus travel times are often longer than driving, and the potential for exposure to allergens and irritants within the bus environment is a concern. While SEPTA strives to maintain clean vehicles, the close proximity to other passengers and the potential for air circulation issues can be problematic. ADA accessibility is a key consideration, with all SEPTA buses equipped with ramps or lifts for those with mobility impairments. However, the reliability of these systems and the potential for delays related to accessibility features should be factored in.

The Regional Rail lines, accessible via connecting buses, provide a more rapid transit option to destinations further afield, including Center City Philadelphia, where numerous specialized medical facilities are located. The Media/Elwyn Line, for instance, can be accessed via connecting buses. However, the commute time, including the bus transfer, can still be substantial, and the potential for exposure to allergens at train stations and on trains remains.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. They provide door-to-door service, eliminating the need for transfers and reducing exposure to potential irritants. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, and the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with limited coverage, is not always guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another layer of support. Companies like CareRide or Medical Transportation Management (MTM) provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often covered by insurance, making them a viable option for those who cannot drive or use public transit. However, scheduling and availability should be confirmed in advance.

The Asthma Score for 19033 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While driving offers the most direct route, traffic congestion and environmental factors pose challenges. Public transportation provides a cost-effective alternative, but travel times and potential exposure to irritants are concerns. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenient solutions, but costs and availability must be considered.

For individuals with asthma, the ideal scenario involves minimizing exposure to triggers. When considering a move to Folsom, proximity to healthcare facilities is essential. Choosing a residence close to a hospital or a doctor's office can reduce travel times and exposure to environmental irritants. Planning appointments during off-peak hours can also mitigate the impact of traffic congestion.

Furthermore, proactively researching the air quality in the area is crucial. Websites like AirNow.gov provide real-time air quality data, allowing residents to monitor pollution levels and adjust their activities accordingly. Investing in an air purifier for the home and vehicle can further reduce exposure to allergens and irritants.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score for 19033 underscores the importance of a personalized approach to healthcare access. By carefully evaluating transportation options, understanding environmental factors, and proactively managing their health, individuals with asthma can thrive in this Delaware County community. Moving to Folsom requires thoughtful consideration of these factors, ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life.