18453, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18453, Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.79 percent of residents in 18453 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.45 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.13 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Pleasant Mount (ZIP Code 18453)

The crisp air and rolling hills of Pleasant Mount, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18453), offer a tranquil escape. However, for individuals managing asthma, the serenity of this rural haven hinges on something crucial: dependable healthcare access. This write-up, tailored to the specific transportation landscape of 18453, assesses the "Asthma Score," reflecting the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, particularly during an asthma exacerbation.

The Asthma Score considers various transportation modalities, each with its own set of advantages and limitations. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Pleasant Mount or already residing there. This analysis is vital, as timely access to medical care is paramount in managing asthma effectively.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Access**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. In 18453, the primary arteries for healthcare access are the roadways. The closest significant medical center is Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, approximately a 30-to-45-minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific route. The most direct route involves taking Route 29 North, a major thoroughfare, then merging onto Interstate 81 North. This highway offers a generally smooth and efficient passage, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

Alternatively, residents can opt for a more scenic, yet potentially slower, route. This involves utilizing Route 374 East, a winding road that traverses the picturesque countryside. While offering a more relaxed driving experience, this route can add 15-20 minutes to the journey, especially during inclement weather. Another option is to utilize Route 171.

The drive to smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in nearby towns like Carbondale and Forest City is generally shorter, ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. However, these facilities may not offer the same comprehensive services as the larger hospitals. Therefore, the ability to quickly reach a major medical center, especially during a severe asthma attack, is a critical factor in the Asthma Score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation in 18453 is severely limited. The lack of a robust public transit system poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles, especially those with asthma who may experience sudden, debilitating symptoms. The lack of options severely impacts healthcare access.

The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some bus service in the Scranton area, but its reach into the more rural areas like Pleasant Mount is minimal. The routes that do exist are infrequent, with limited operating hours, and often lack the frequency needed for reliable healthcare access.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, equipped with features like wheelchair lifts, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. While the LCTA strives to provide accessible services, the limited routes and schedules make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many asthma patients in 18453.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. However, their availability in rural areas like Pleasant Mount is often inconsistent. While these services may be accessible, response times can be significantly longer than in urban areas, potentially delaying crucial medical attention during an asthma emergency.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and American Medical Response (AMR) offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services can be pre-arranged for routine appointments or utilized in urgent situations. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and the availability of these services may be limited, especially during peak demand.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Asthma Score for 18453 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The relatively long drive times to major medical centers, the limited public transit options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to a lower score. While medical transportation services offer a valuable resource, their cost and potential availability limitations further impact the overall assessment.

For individuals considering moving to Pleasant Mount, or for current residents managing asthma, careful consideration of these transportation challenges is essential. Proximity to emergency services, the ability to drive, or access to reliable medical transportation are crucial factors in ensuring timely healthcare access.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving the Asthma Score in 18453 requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transit routes and increasing service frequency would significantly enhance healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could offer discounted or prioritized transportation for asthma patients.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transportation services and providing financial assistance to those in need could alleviate the financial burden of accessing healthcare. Investing in telehealth infrastructure, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, could also improve healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or living in remote areas.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a healthcare landscape in Pleasant Mount that is accessible, efficient, and supportive of individuals managing asthma. By addressing the transportation challenges outlined in this Asthma Score assessment, the community can foster a healthier and more inclusive environment for all its residents.