18234, Lattimer Mines, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18234, Lattimer Mines, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 18234 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 2.95 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lattimer Mines (ZIP Code 18234)

Considering a move to the charming, albeit geographically isolated, community of Lattimer Mines (ZIP Code 18234)? For individuals managing asthma, understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This Asthma Score write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options to medical facilities, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access within and around this Pennsylvania locale. It’s a crucial factor when considering a move, especially if you or a loved one requires regular medical attention.

The primary concern for residents of Lattimer Mines is the relative distance to comprehensive healthcare. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in surrounding towns, necessitating reliable transportation. This reliance on external resources directly impacts the Asthma Score, as ease of access to emergency care and routine appointments significantly influences quality of life for asthmatics.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Lattimer Mines is personal vehicle. The journey to the nearest major hospital, Lehigh Valley Hospital – Hazleton, located approximately 10 miles away, typically takes around 20-30 minutes. The route primarily involves navigating **Pennsylvania Route 93** (PA-93), a two-lane highway that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. This route provides a direct link, but weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter months, can significantly extend travel times.

For specialized care, such as pulmonology or allergy specialists, residents may need to travel further. A trip to Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, roughly 25 miles away, requires approximately 45-60 minutes of driving. This route utilizes **Interstate 81** (I-81) for a portion, offering a faster commute. However, I-81 is known for heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour, which can further delay arrival times. Another option might be **Pennsylvania Route 309** (PA-309), which also provides access to Wilkes-Barre, but with potentially more stop-and-go traffic.

The variability in drive times underscores the importance of planning and preparedness for medical appointments. Asthmatics must factor in potential delays when scheduling appointments and ensure they have sufficient medication on hand in case of unforeseen circumstances.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Lattimer Mines are limited, which significantly affects the Asthma Score. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to healthcare needs. The availability of public transportation is a critical component of healthcare access, particularly for those who do not drive or cannot afford a personal vehicle.

The LCTA Route 60, which runs through the area, might offer some access to nearby towns, but its frequency and coverage are limited. The routes may not directly serve hospitals or medical facilities, necessitating transfers or long walks. Moreover, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these buses should be confirmed. Individuals with asthma-related mobility issues or those requiring assistance should carefully assess the suitability of public transit. The LCTA website provides detailed information on routes, schedules, and ADA features.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. This further impacts the Asthma Score.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for individuals with medical needs. These services, such as medical transportation companies, provide non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments. They often have vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility issues or those requiring assistance. However, the availability and cost of these services should be carefully investigated.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

Several medical transportation brands service the area, including, but not limited to, MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR). These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The Asthma Score is directly affected by the availability and affordability of these services.

**Impact on the Asthma Score:**

The overall Asthma Score for Lattimer Mines is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for delays due to traffic and weather, poses challenges for asthmatics. The scarcity of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges.

The cost and availability of medical transportation services, while offering a more specialized solution, must be carefully considered. The distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for extended travel times can increase stress and anxiety for individuals managing asthma, potentially impacting their overall health and well-being.

**Recommendations for Asthma Patients Considering a Move:**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Lattimer Mines, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is crucial.

* **Evaluate Personal Vehicle Reliability:** Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and reliable, particularly during winter months.
* **Explore Medical Transportation Options:** Research the availability, cost, and eligibility requirements of medical transportation services.
* **Plan for Delays:** Factor in potential delays due to traffic and weather when scheduling medical appointments.
* **Consider Proximity to Emergency Services:** Assess the proximity of your residence to emergency medical services and the response time of ambulances.
* **Maintain a Comprehensive Medication Supply:** Always have a sufficient supply of asthma medication on hand, including rescue inhalers and any prescribed maintenance medications.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and allergy specialists, and assess their accessibility.
* **Communicate with Healthcare Providers:** Discuss your transportation needs and any potential challenges with your healthcare providers.

By carefully considering these factors and proactively addressing transportation challenges, individuals with asthma can improve their healthcare access and quality of life in Lattimer Mines. Understanding the limitations and planning accordingly is key to successful healthcare management in this geographically isolated community. The Asthma Score reflects these realities, highlighting the need for careful planning and preparedness for those considering moving to this area.