18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18430, Herrick Center, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.83 percent of residents in 18430 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 15.21 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 18430

Relocating to a new community, especially when managing a chronic condition like asthma, necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. For those considering a move to ZIP Code 18430, encompassing the charming borough of Herrick Center, this write-up aims to provide an "Asthma Score" – a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and their implications for healthcare access. This score will consider factors crucial for asthma sufferers, including travel time, accessibility, and the availability of reliable transportation.

The primary concern for individuals with asthma is the swiftness and ease with which they can reach medical care during an exacerbation. In Herrick Center, the nearest hospital, Geisinger Community Medical Center, is located approximately 20 miles away in Scranton. Driving time, therefore, becomes a critical factor.

The most direct route to Scranton from Herrick Center is generally via **Pennsylvania Route 29**. This two-lane highway offers a scenic drive, but it can be subject to traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours. Expect a drive time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. An alternative route involves taking **US Route 6** east to **Interstate 81 South**, then exiting in Scranton. This route, while utilizing a major interstate, can add distance and potential congestion, especially during rush hour.

The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, is another consideration. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose a risk for those experiencing an asthma attack. Regular road maintenance and plowing are vital for ensuring safe and timely access to healthcare.

Public transportation options in Herrick Center are limited. The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) provides bus services within the Scranton area, but its reach into Herrick Center is minimal. There are no direct bus routes connecting Herrick Center to Scranton. This severely restricts healthcare access for those who do not drive or have access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals with asthma who may not be able to drive or who require immediate medical attention. This lack of options directly impacts the "Asthma Score," highlighting a major barrier to healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton area. However, their availability in Herrick Center itself can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for emergency medical transport is therefore risky. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer a more reliable option. Companies like Care Transport and MedStar Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically require pre-booking and can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the availability of these services in Herrick Center and their response times during an asthma emergency should be thoroughly investigated.

The "Asthma Score" also considers the proximity of urgent care facilities and pharmacies. While Herrick Center may have local pharmacies for medication refills, the nearest urgent care centers are located in Scranton. This further emphasizes the importance of reliable transportation.

Another critical aspect is the presence of asthma specialists and pulmonologists in the area. The availability of specialized medical care is essential for managing asthma effectively. Researching the location and accessibility of these specialists, along with their acceptance of various insurance plans, is crucial.

For individuals considering moving to Herrick Center, the "Asthma Score" is negatively impacted by the limited public transportation, the potential for variable ride-sharing availability, and the distance to the nearest hospital and urgent care facilities. The reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged medical transport adds complexity to healthcare access.

However, the beauty of Herrick Center, its peaceful atmosphere, and the potential for a lower cost of living may be enticing factors. The decision to move should be made after carefully weighing the pros and cons.

The "Asthma Score" is not a static number; it should be viewed as a dynamic assessment. Factors such as personal health status, access to a reliable vehicle, and the ability to pre-arrange medical transport significantly influence the overall score.

Furthermore, the "Asthma Score" should be periodically reviewed and updated. Changes in transportation services, the opening of new medical facilities, or shifts in personal health conditions can all impact the score.

In conclusion, while Herrick Center offers a desirable lifestyle for many, individuals with asthma must carefully consider the challenges associated with healthcare access. The "Asthma Score" highlights the importance of planning for transportation needs, researching medical transport options, and understanding the limitations of public transportation and ride-sharing services. The journey to healthcare in ZIP Code 18430 requires careful consideration and proactive planning.