19904, Dover, Delaware Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 19904, Dover, Delaware is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.48 percent of residents in 19904 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus with a distance of 2.26 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Dover, DE (ZIP Code 19904)

Relocating to a new city, especially with a condition like asthma, necessitates a thorough assessment of healthcare access. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 19904, Dover, Delaware, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for managing asthma effectively. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive understanding of navigating healthcare in this area. The aim is to empower potential residents with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, ensuring their respiratory health is prioritized.

Dover, the capital of Delaware, presents a unique transportation landscape. While not a sprawling metropolis, its healthcare infrastructure is concentrated, and access to it depends heavily on the available transportation options. The "Asthma Score" here considers the ease of getting to medical appointments, the reliability of transportation, and the overall stress associated with reaching healthcare providers. This is particularly vital for individuals with asthma, as minimizing exposure to triggers and ensuring timely access to medication are paramount.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Dover. The central thoroughfare, **US Route 13**, acts as the spine of the city, connecting various residential areas with healthcare facilities. The **Bayhealth Kent Campus**, a major healthcare provider, is conveniently located near Route 13. Drive times to this facility from different parts of the ZIP code vary. Residents in the northern sections, near **Dover Air Force Base**, might experience a 10-15 minute commute, while those in the southern areas could face a 15-20 minute drive, especially during peak hours.

**Delaware Route 1**, a limited-access highway, offers a faster route for those residing near its access points. However, it doesn't directly serve all areas within 19904. Accessing Route 1 might involve navigating local roads like **North Dupont Highway** or **South Governors Avenue**, adding to the overall travel time. Traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact drive times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to increased air pollution from idling vehicles. This is a critical factor in the "Asthma Score," as unpredictable delays can create anxiety and hinder timely access to care.

**Public Transit: DART First State:**

Dover's public transportation system, operated by DART First State, provides an alternative to driving. Several bus routes serve the 19904 ZIP code, offering access to healthcare facilities. **Route 103** and **Route 104** are particularly relevant, as they connect residential areas with the Bayhealth Kent Campus. However, the frequency of these routes can be a concern. Buses typically run on an hourly schedule, and the service may be limited during evenings and weekends.

ADA accessibility is a key consideration for individuals with asthma who might also have mobility limitations. DART First State buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the reliance on public transit can increase the time spent outdoors, potentially exposing individuals to environmental triggers like pollen or air pollutants, impacting their asthma management. The “Asthma Score” reflects the need to balance the convenience of public transit with the potential for increased exposure.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient option for accessing healthcare. These services are readily available in Dover, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. Ride-sharing can be particularly beneficial for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to drive, especially during periods of severe asthma symptoms. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, impacting the overall "Asthma Score."

Medical transport services, like **CareRide** and **First Transit**, specialize in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey to and from medical appointments. This is particularly valuable for individuals with asthma who may require assistance with mobility or need to minimize exposure to environmental triggers. However, these services may require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Asthma Score Considerations:**

The "Asthma Score" for 19904 must account for several factors. The availability of multiple transportation options is a positive attribute, but the reliability and accessibility of each option are critical. Driving offers the most flexibility but is subject to traffic congestion and parking challenges. Public transit provides an affordable alternative but may have limited frequency and potential exposure to environmental triggers. Ride-sharing offers convenience but can be costly. Medical transport services provide specialized assistance but are the most expensive option.

The proximity of healthcare facilities, like the Bayhealth Kent Campus, is a significant advantage. However, the ease of access to these facilities is crucial. The "Asthma Score" needs to consider the individual's specific needs and preferences. For example, an individual with severe asthma might prioritize medical transport services to ensure a safe and comfortable journey, while someone with milder symptoms might opt for ride-sharing or public transit.

**Moving to Dover with Asthma:**

For individuals considering a move to Dover with asthma, a thorough assessment of transportation options is paramount. Researching the availability and reliability of public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers is essential. Familiarizing oneself with the traffic patterns and potential congestion on major roadways, such as Route 13 and Route 1, is equally important.

Choosing a residence within close proximity to healthcare facilities or public transit routes can significantly improve healthcare access. Consulting with a pulmonologist or asthma specialist in Dover can provide valuable insights into managing asthma in the local environment. They can offer recommendations on transportation options, identify potential environmental triggers, and develop a personalized asthma management plan.

The "Asthma Score" for 19904 is not a static number; it is a dynamic assessment that should be tailored to the individual's specific needs and circumstances. By carefully evaluating the available transportation options, understanding the local environment, and consulting with healthcare professionals, individuals with asthma can successfully navigate healthcare access in Dover and maintain optimal respiratory health. The goal is to ensure that transportation to healthcare is not a barrier, but a manageable aspect of living well with asthma.