18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18219, Conyngham, Pennsylvania is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

89.26 percent of residents in 18219 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 5.74 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Conyngham, PA (ZIP Code 18219)

The crisp air of Conyngham, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Luzerne County, holds a certain allure. Its quiet charm and proximity to the Pocono Mountains beckon those seeking respite from the frenetic pace of city life. However, for individuals managing asthma, the realities of healthcare access become a critical consideration. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP code 18219, evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital medical care, a crucial factor when contemplating a move.

The foundation of our assessment lies in understanding the commute to healthcare facilities. Conyngham's location, while offering tranquility, presents a transportation challenge. The primary route to specialized care often involves navigating the roadways. The primary artery for travel is **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Accessing I-80 requires traversing **PA-93**, a state highway that snakes through the borough. This highway, while offering a direct route, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially exacerbating the stress of a medical journey for those with asthma.

The nearest hospitals offering specialized respiratory care, including pulmonology and allergy services, are located in the surrounding towns. **Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center** in Plains Township, approximately 20 miles away, and **Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton** in Hazleton, around 15 miles distant, are the primary destinations. Drive times vary considerably depending on traffic. Under ideal conditions, a trip to Hazleton might take 20-30 minutes. However, during rush hour, this could easily extend to 45 minutes or more. Plains Township, with its proximity to I-80, offers a potentially faster route, perhaps 25-40 minutes, but again, traffic is a significant variable.

The secondary roads, such as **PA-309**, offer alternative routes, but they are generally slower and more winding, adding to the travel time. These roads may also be subject to seasonal weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, which could further complicate transportation.

Public transit options in Conyngham are limited. The **Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA)** provides bus service, but its routes within and around Conyngham are infrequent. The primary route serving the area is likely to be a route that connects to Hazleton and perhaps Wilkes-Barre. The buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other **ADA features**, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the potential for lengthy travel times, including transfers, make public transit a less-than-ideal option for urgent medical needs. The lack of direct routes to major healthcare providers is a significant drawback.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the region, but their reliability and cost are variables to consider. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The expense of ride-sharing, especially for frequent medical appointments, can quickly become a financial burden. Furthermore, the driver's familiarity with the specific needs of an asthma patient, such as avoiding cigarette smoke or strong fragrances, is not guaranteed.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for patients, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medical Transport Services** provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door assistance, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable journey. However, these services come with a premium price tag. The cost can be a significant barrier for individuals with limited financial resources.

The "Asthma Score" for Conyngham, based on these transportation factors, would be moderate. While the roadways offer direct access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays create challenges. The limited public transit options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services further complicate matters. For individuals with severe asthma or those who require frequent medical attention, the transportation challenges could be a significant concern.

Moving to Conyngham, therefore, requires careful consideration of these factors. Prospective residents with asthma should evaluate their individual healthcare needs and assess their ability to navigate the transportation landscape. Factors to consider include the frequency of medical appointments, the severity of their condition, and their financial resources.

The availability of a reliable personal vehicle is almost essential. Planning for potential traffic delays and alternative routes is also crucial. Exploring the availability and cost of medical transportation services is advisable. Furthermore, residents should familiarize themselves with the LCTA routes and schedules, even if they do not plan to use them regularly.

The overall assessment highlights the importance of proactive planning and preparation. While Conyngham offers a desirable living environment, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access must be carefully considered to ensure that the move supports, rather than hinders, the management of asthma. The decision to move to Conyngham, like any relocation, demands a comprehensive understanding of its strengths and weaknesses, especially for individuals whose health depends on consistent and accessible healthcare.