19936, Cheswold, Delaware Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 19936, Cheswold, Delaware is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.29 percent of residents in 19936 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bayhealth Hospital, Kent Campus with a distance of 5.54 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Cheswold, Delaware (ZIP Code 19936)

The decision to relocate to Cheswold, Delaware (ZIP code 19936), presents a tapestry of considerations, particularly for individuals managing asthma. Beyond the charming small-town atmosphere and the promise of a slower pace of life, a crucial factor emerges: the ease of accessing healthcare. This "Asthma Score" write-up meticulously examines the transportation landscape, providing a detailed assessment of commute times, available transit options, and accessibility to medical facilities for residents with asthma. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with **healthcare access** in this specific geographical area. This knowledge is essential for anyone **moving to Cheswold**, especially those prioritizing respiratory health.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers in Cheswold is the proximity and accessibility of specialized medical care. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, necessitates regular check-ups, potential emergency visits, and convenient access to medications. The **transportation** infrastructure, therefore, becomes a critical determinant of quality of life.

Cheswold itself is a small town, nestled within Kent County. The primary thoroughfares influencing commute times are Delaware Route 1 (the “DE 1” or “Dover Bypass”), U.S. Route 13 (the “DuPont Highway”), and local roads like Main Street. The nearest major hospitals offering comprehensive asthma care are located in Dover, the county seat, and Smyrna, each presenting unique transportation challenges.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in Cheswold. The drive to Bayhealth Kent Campus in Dover, approximately 10 miles south, typically takes 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. The route primarily involves traveling south on U.S. Route 13. Rush hour, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly increase travel times. The road conditions are generally good, but the potential for delays due to accidents or construction should be considered.

Smyrna, located north of Cheswold, is home to the ChristianaCare Smyrna Emergency Department, a facility providing immediate care. The drive to Smyrna, roughly 10 miles north, is usually completed in 15-20 minutes, mainly via U.S. Route 13. Traffic flow can be variable, but the route is generally less congested than the Dover corridor.

For specialized pulmonology appointments, the drive to Wilmington, Delaware, or Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, might be necessary. These longer journeys require planning. The drive to Wilmington, approximately 50 miles north, can take up to an hour, depending on traffic on DE 1 and I-95. Philadelphia, about 80 miles north, necessitates navigating I-95, potentially adding 1.5 to 2 hours to the commute. These longer distances highlight the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for increased exposure to air pollutants during travel.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Cheswold are limited. The Delaware Transit Corporation (DTC), operating as DART First State, provides bus service throughout Delaware. However, service frequency and route coverage in Cheswold are limited.

Route 301, a DART First State bus route, serves the Dover area, potentially offering a connection to healthcare facilities. However, the route does not directly pass through Cheswold. Residents would need to travel to a designated bus stop, possibly requiring a ride from a friend, family member, or a ride-sharing service. The frequency of Route 301 is limited, with buses running on an hourly or bi-hourly schedule, making it less than ideal for urgent medical needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair accessibility and audio-visual announcements, are available on all DART First State buses. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service pose a significant challenge for individuals with asthma, especially those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cheswold. These services offer a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, alternative to driving or relying on public transportation. However, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs. The availability of these services may also be limited during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by MedTrans or other specialized providers, are also an option. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. They often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically require prior scheduling and may not be available for emergency situations. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant consideration.

**The Asthma Score Conclusion:**

The Asthma Score for commuting to healthcare in Cheswold (ZIP code 19936) is moderately challenging. While driving offers the most flexibility, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays can be problematic. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing services, while available, are subject to cost and availability constraints. The distance to specialized healthcare facilities in Wilmington or Philadelphia further complicates the transportation equation.

For individuals with asthma considering **moving to Cheswold**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. Careful consideration of drive times, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transportation is crucial. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with healthcare providers in advance and identifying reliable transportation options, is highly recommended. Furthermore, understanding the local air quality and potential environmental triggers is vital for managing asthma symptoms effectively.