18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18224, Freeland, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.52 percent of residents in 18224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 5.83 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Freeland, PA (ZIP Code 18224)

Considering a move to the serene landscapes of Freeland, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18224)? This charming borough, nestled in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes the transportation landscape surrounding Freeland, focusing on healthcare access and its potential impact on residents with respiratory conditions. It aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access within and around the ZIP code.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is timely access to medical care, especially during exacerbations. The ability to reach a doctor, urgent care facility, or hospital quickly can be the difference between a manageable episode and a life-threatening emergency. This assessment considers the various transportation options available, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, evaluating their efficiency and reliability in the context of potential asthma-related emergencies.

Freeland's location, while offering natural beauty, also presents transportation challenges. The borough is situated within Luzerne County, and its healthcare access is heavily influenced by the surrounding infrastructure. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, a major east-west thoroughfare, and **Pennsylvania Route 940 (PA-940)**, which runs through the borough and connects it to nearby towns. **Pennsylvania Route 309 (PA-309)** provides a north-south route, offering access to larger population centers.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. The closest hospital, **Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center** in Plains Township, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via PA-309, depending on traffic. **Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton** is a similar distance, accessible via PA-940 and PA-309, typically taking 25-35 minutes. These drive times, while manageable, can be significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The **Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA)** provides bus service within the county. However, the frequency of service in Freeland and the surrounding areas is relatively low, and routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. The LCTA primarily operates routes within the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton metropolitan area.

Route 9, a key LCTA line, connects Wilkes-Barre to Hazleton. It passes through Freeland, but the journey can be lengthy, potentially taking over an hour to reach a hospital in either direction. This is a significant consideration for individuals experiencing an asthma attack. The LCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and longer travel times pose a challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the area, providing an alternative transportation option. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. The reliability of these services during emergencies is also a concern.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available for individuals requiring specialized assistance. **CareLine Ambulance** and **TransMed Ambulance** are prominent providers in the region. These services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals experiencing severe asthma exacerbations, providing immediate medical care and transport to the nearest hospital. However, the availability of these services and the response times can vary depending on the location and the severity of the emergency.

The availability of healthcare providers within Freeland itself is another crucial aspect of healthcare access. **Geisinger** operates a clinic in Freeland, offering primary care and some specialty services. This local presence can significantly reduce the need for travel for routine appointments and minor health issues. However, the availability of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists may require travel to larger medical centers.

For individuals considering moving to Freeland, it is imperative to assess their healthcare needs and evaluate the transportation options accordingly. The ability to drive, the availability of a reliable vehicle, and the ability to afford ride-sharing services are all crucial factors. The limited public transportation options and the potential for longer travel times to healthcare facilities pose a challenge, particularly for those with severe asthma.

The weather in the Pocono Mountains can also impact transportation. Winter weather, with snow and ice, can make driving conditions hazardous, potentially increasing travel times and delaying access to healthcare. This is a significant consideration for individuals with asthma, as cold air can trigger or worsen symptoms.

The proximity of pharmacies is also a key factor. Access to medication, including rescue inhalers and other asthma medications, is essential for managing the condition. Freeland has local pharmacies, but the availability of specific medications and the hours of operation should be considered.

In conclusion, while Freeland offers a desirable lifestyle, healthcare access presents certain challenges for asthma sufferers. The drive times to hospitals are manageable, but the limited public transportation options and the potential for weather-related delays require careful consideration. Residents must weigh the benefits of the tranquil environment against the potential difficulties of accessing timely medical care, especially during an asthma emergency. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers provides additional support, but their reliability and cost should be factored into the decision-making process. Before moving to Freeland, individuals with asthma should thoroughly research the local healthcare providers, assess their transportation needs, and develop a plan for managing their condition in the context of the available resources.