18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18221, Drifton, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.95 percent of residents in 18221 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 4.90 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Drifton (ZIP Code 18221)

The crisp mountain air of Drifton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18221), holds a certain allure, a siren song for those seeking respite from the relentless pace of urban life. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, this idyllic setting necessitates a critical assessment of healthcare access. Understanding the nuances of **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit, becomes paramount in ensuring timely medical attention. This "Asthma Score" provides a comprehensive overview, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach crucial healthcare providers, thus informing decisions for those considering **moving to Drifton**.

The core of this analysis revolves around the concept of "drive-time." The accessibility of healthcare facilities is often dictated by the efficiency of the local road network. Drifton, nestled in the heart of Luzerne County, offers a relatively straightforward network, but the distances can still pose challenges, especially during inclement weather or peak traffic hours.

The primary artery for vehicular **transportation** is Interstate 80 (I-80), a major east-west thoroughfare. Access to I-80 from Drifton is generally convenient, typically via the Pennsylvania Route 940 (PA-940). Driving east on I-80 leads towards Wilkes-Barre, where a concentration of medical facilities, including Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, is located. The drive to this hospital, a major regional provider, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Drifton.

Westbound on I-80 offers access to medical services in Bloomsburg and Danville, though these facilities may be less frequently utilized by Drifton residents. The drive to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville can take upwards of an hour.

Beyond I-80, local roads such as PA-940, PA-309, and various township roads provide access to smaller clinics, urgent care facilities, and physician offices. The drive to these facilities, such as the Lehigh Valley Physician Group in Hazleton, often takes 15 to 30 minutes. These shorter trips can be invaluable for routine check-ups, medication refills, and less urgent medical needs. However, the quality of these roads can vary, and some may be subject to seasonal closures or delays due to snow or ice.

Public **transportation** options in Drifton are limited. Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus services throughout the county, but service frequency and route coverage in the Drifton area are restricted. Route 18, for example, might provide access to Hazleton, but the schedule may not align with the urgent needs of an asthma patient. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, needs careful verification. The LCTA website and customer service are essential resources for determining route schedules, accessibility features, and potential delays.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, offering another avenue for **transportation**. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing, therefore, must be assessed against the individual's needs and financial resources.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are crucial for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Companies like MedStar Ambulance Service and other local providers operate in the region. These services can provide a vital lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and pre-authorization from insurance providers may be required.

The overall "Asthma Score" for Drifton, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to I-80 offers access to major medical centers, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable public **transportation** poses challenges. The limited availability of ride-sharing and the cost of medical **transportation** services further complicate the equation.

For individuals with well-controlled asthma, the drive-times to healthcare facilities might be manageable. However, for those with more severe or unstable asthma, the potential for delays and the limited options for alternative **transportation** could be a significant concern.

Healthcare **access** is a multifaceted concept. Beyond physical **transportation**, factors such as the availability of specialists, the acceptance of insurance plans, and the responsiveness of healthcare providers all play a crucial role. Before **moving to Drifton**, prospective residents should thoroughly research the local healthcare landscape, contacting clinics and hospitals to inquire about their services, appointment availability, and patient support programs.

The "Asthma Score" is not a definitive measure, but rather a starting point for a comprehensive assessment. It underscores the importance of understanding the **transportation** landscape and its impact on healthcare **access**. By carefully evaluating the drive-times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical **transportation** services, individuals can make informed decisions about **moving to Drifton** and ensuring their ability to receive timely and effective asthma care.