19373, Thornton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 19373, Thornton, Pennsylvania is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.38 percent of residents in 19373 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Riddle Memorial Hospital with a distance of 5.47 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19373

The quest for accessible healthcare, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like asthma, is a critical factor when considering a move to a new area. Understanding the transportation landscape, especially in a region like Thornton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19373), is paramount. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" – a comprehensive overview of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access for residents of 19373, considering the unique challenges faced by individuals with respiratory sensitivities.

Thornton, nestled within the rolling hills of Delaware County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the bustling Philadelphia metropolitan area. However, this desirable location presents a complex transportation puzzle. The availability and efficiency of transportation directly influence healthcare access, impacting the quality of life for asthma sufferers who require regular medical attention, including check-ups, medication refills, and emergency care.

**Drive-Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Thornton is the personal vehicle. Assessing drive times to healthcare facilities is crucial. Residents of 19373 can access a range of medical services by car, but traffic patterns and distance significantly affect the ease of access.

The primary thoroughfare for accessing healthcare facilities is **U.S. Route 1 (Baltimore Pike)**. This busy road connects Thornton to hospitals and medical centers in nearby towns like Media and Chester. During peak hours, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, Route 1 experiences heavy congestion, potentially extending drive times considerably. A trip to a hospital on Route 1 can easily take 30 minutes, or longer, during rush hour.

Alternative routes include **Concord Road**, which offers a slightly less congested path to some medical facilities. However, it is often narrow and winding, requiring careful navigation. **Smithbridge Road** also provides access to healthcare options, but can be a slower route due to its residential nature and frequent stop signs.

**Healthcare access** is heavily influenced by these drive times. For individuals with asthma, prolonged exposure to vehicle exhaust during commutes can trigger asthma symptoms. The need for quick access to medical care in case of an asthma attack further emphasizes the importance of efficient transportation. The "Asthma Score" for drive times will reflect the average travel time to the nearest emergency room, specialist, and pharmacy, considering both peak and off-peak traffic conditions.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transit options in 19373 are limited, which can pose a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The **Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)** provides bus service in the area.

The **117 bus route** is the primary public transit option serving Thornton. It connects the area to Media, offering access to some medical facilities. However, bus frequency can be limited, especially during evenings and weekends. The 117 bus has ADA features, including ramps and designated seating, making it accessible to individuals with mobility impairments.

The **118 bus route** also provides limited service in the area, connecting Thornton to Chester. However, it has less frequent service and is not as well-suited for accessing healthcare facilities.

Relying on public transit for healthcare access can significantly increase travel time and introduce additional complexities. Transfers, waiting times, and potential delays can exacerbate the stress of managing asthma, particularly during acute episodes. The "Asthma Score" will evaluate the reliability, frequency, and accessibility of SEPTA routes, considering their impact on healthcare access for asthma sufferers.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an on-demand transportation option in 19373. These services can provide a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to operate a vehicle. However, ride-share costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by **MedStar** or **American Medical Response (AMR)**, are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. While they offer a valuable service, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The "Asthma Score" will assess the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, considering their impact on healthcare access for asthma sufferers. The score will also consider the potential for delays and the ability of these services to accommodate the specific needs of individuals with asthma, such as the need for a smoke-free environment.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity and Availability**

The "Asthma Score" must also consider the proximity and availability of healthcare facilities within and around 19373. The location of hospitals, urgent care centers, primary care physicians, and pharmacies is crucial.

**Crozer-Chester Medical Center** in Chester is a major hospital that is accessible from Thornton. **Springfield Hospital** is another option, located in Springfield. The distance and accessibility of these facilities are critical factors in the "Asthma Score".

The availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists and allergy specialists, is also important. The "Asthma Score" will assess the availability of these specialists within a reasonable distance from 19373.

The presence of pharmacies offering quick prescription refills is vital. The "Asthma Score" will evaluate the proximity and accessibility of pharmacies, including those with drive-through services, which can be particularly helpful for individuals with asthma.

**Moving to Thornton: A Transportation-Aware Decision**

For individuals with asthma considering **moving to Thornton**, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. The "Asthma Score" can serve as a valuable tool for evaluating the suitability of the area, considering the impact of transportation on healthcare access.

The score will incorporate all the factors discussed above, including drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the proximity and availability of healthcare facilities. The score will be presented on a scale, providing a clear and concise assessment of the area's suitability for asthma sufferers.

The "Asthma Score" for 19373 will also consider the potential for environmental factors, such as air quality, to impact asthma symptoms. The score will take into account the proximity to industrial areas and the prevalence of allergens in the area.

Ultimately, the goal of the "Asthma Score" is to empower individuals with asthma to make informed decisions about their healthcare access, ensuring they can live a healthy and fulfilling life in their chosen community. By considering all aspects of transportation and healthcare availability, the score provides a comprehensive assessment of the area's suitability, helping individuals with asthma find the best place to call home.