18407, Carbondale, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18407, Carbondale, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.08 percent of residents in 18407 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 10.89 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Carbondale (ZIP Code 18407)

Considering a move to Carbondale, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18407)? This assessment provides an "Asthma Score" – a subjective measure of healthcare accessibility, specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals managing asthma. This score considers the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities from various locations within the ZIP code, crucial for timely treatment and preventative care. The score is not a definitive medical recommendation, but rather a guide to understanding the practical challenges of accessing healthcare.

Carbondale, nestled within the rolling hills of northeastern Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The city's layout, coupled with the limitations of public transit, demands careful consideration for residents, particularly those with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma. The Asthma Score aims to illuminate these complexities.

**The Asthma Score Methodology:**

The score is based on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing the most challenging access and 5 representing the easiest. Factors considered include: drive times to medical facilities, the availability and reliability of public transportation, the presence of ADA-compliant features on public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of specialized medical transport. The score is subjective, reflecting a general assessment based on available information.

**Driving to Healthcare:**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Carbondale. Several medical facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, but traffic conditions and road quality can significantly impact travel times, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from Carbondale are **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, **U.S. Route 6 (US-6)**, and **Pennsylvania Route 29 (PA-29)**. **Geisinger Community Medical Center** in Scranton, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via I-81. This route, while generally efficient, can experience congestion, especially during rush hour.

For shorter trips, **Wayne Memorial Hospital** in Honesdale is accessible via US-6, offering a drive time of approximately 30-40 minutes. This route, while scenic, can be affected by seasonal weather conditions, particularly snow and ice during winter months. Local clinics and primary care physicians are often accessible via PA-29 and local roads. Drive times to these facilities vary depending on the specific location within Carbondale, ranging from 5 to 20 minutes.

The condition of local roads is a factor. Potholes and uneven surfaces can exacerbate symptoms for individuals with asthma. The Asthma Score acknowledges this, factoring in the potential for bumpy rides.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Carbondale is limited, which significantly impacts the Asthma Score. The **Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA)** provides bus service, but routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for frequent medical appointments.

The primary bus routes serving Carbondale are numbered, but specific routes and their frequency need to be verified. Information on ADA-compliant features (e.g., wheelchair lifts, accessible seating) on LCTA buses is essential. The Asthma Score considers the availability of these features.

The frequency of bus service is a critical factor. Limited service, especially on weekends and evenings, can pose significant challenges for those needing urgent or scheduled medical care. Reliance on public transportation can also increase exposure to environmental triggers, such as allergens and pollutants, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Carbondale area, offering an alternative to driving or public transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, particularly during peak demand or in less populated areas. The Asthma Score considers the potential for higher costs and longer wait times for ride-sharing services.

Specialized medical transport services, such as **CareTrans** or similar providers, offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often equipped to handle individuals with mobility limitations or other specific needs. The Asthma Score considers the availability and cost of these services.

**The Asthma Score for Carbondale (ZIP Code 18407):**

Based on the factors discussed, the Asthma Score for Carbondale (ZIP Code 18407) is a **3 out of 5**. While driving offers relatively good access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation, the potential for traffic delays, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services lower the score.

**Implications for Moving to Carbondale:**

For individuals with asthma, this score suggests that careful planning is essential for accessing healthcare. Owning a car or having reliable access to transportation is highly recommended. Researching the specific routes and schedules of LCTA buses, as well as the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services, is crucial.

Consider the proximity of your residence to primary care physicians and urgent care facilities. Explore the potential for telehealth appointments, which can reduce the need for in-person visits.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Carbondale presents both opportunities and challenges for individuals managing asthma. While the area offers a sense of community and natural beauty, careful consideration of transportation options is vital for ensuring timely and convenient access to healthcare. This Asthma Score, while subjective, provides a valuable framework for evaluating the practical implications of moving to this charming Pennsylvania town. Before making a decision, it is advisable to conduct thorough research into the specific healthcare needs and transportation options. Healthcare access is a vital factor when considering moving to a new location.