18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18463, Sterling, Pennsylvania is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.82 percent of residents in 18463 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wayne Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.32 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Sterling, PA (ZIP Code 18463)

The crisp mountain air of Sterling, Pennsylvania, nestled within the Pocono region, offers a serene escape for many. However, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of this picturesque landscape must be balanced against the realities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 18463, assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care, a critical factor for those considering moving to Sterling.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is timely access to medical intervention during an exacerbation. This necessitates a thorough examination of transportation options, particularly those that provide rapid and reliable access to emergency services and specialized asthma care. The score will assess the availability and efficiency of various modes of transport, considering factors like drive times, public transit options, and the presence of ride-sharing services.

Driving is the predominant mode of transportation in this rural area. The primary arteries connecting Sterling to healthcare facilities are Route 191, Route 390, and Interstate 84. Drive times to the nearest hospitals and urgent care facilities are crucial. Pocono Medical Center in East Stroudsburg, approximately 25 miles southeast, is the closest full-service hospital. Expect a drive of around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This journey typically involves Route 191 south to Interstate 80 east, and then Interstate 380 south to Route 611 south, before arriving at the hospital.

Another option is Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, about 18 miles north. The drive, primarily via Route 191 north, takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. While closer, the hospital may have less specialized asthma care than Pocono Medical Center. Urgent care facilities are located in both Honesdale and East Stroudsburg, offering quicker access for less severe episodes. However, the drive times remain significant.

Public transportation in Sterling is limited. The lack of robust public transit poses a significant challenge to those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. There are no established bus routes that directly serve the area, meaning that individuals rely on taxis or ride-sharing services. This lack of public transportation severely impacts healthcare access, particularly for those with limited mobility or financial constraints. The absence of fixed routes and ADA-compliant features further exacerbates the problem for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. Availability is often dependent on driver proximity and demand, potentially leading to extended wait times during emergencies. The cost of a ride-share can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of specialized medical transport services is essential for patients requiring stretcher transport or advanced medical assistance during transit.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are crucial for individuals with asthma who experience severe symptoms. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to ensure safe and timely transport to medical facilities. However, the response time of ambulances can be affected by the rural location and distance to hospitals. The availability and cost of NEMT services also need consideration, as these are often not covered by insurance.

Evaluating the Asthma Score requires consideration of several factors. The drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant concern, particularly during an asthma attack. The lack of public transportation options and the reliance on ride-sharing services add to the challenges. The availability and cost of medical transport services are also critical.

For individuals with asthma, the transportation landscape in Sterling presents several hurdles. The drive times to hospitals and urgent care facilities are relatively long, and the lack of public transportation options forces residents to rely on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services. This can significantly impact healthcare access, especially during emergencies.

When considering moving to Sterling, individuals with asthma must carefully assess their ability to navigate the transportation challenges. They should factor in the potential for increased travel times to medical appointments and the associated costs. It is advisable to research the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, medical transport providers, and the potential for establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider who offers home visits or telehealth options.

The "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 18463 is, therefore, moderately unfavorable. The area's rural nature and limited public transportation options create significant challenges for individuals managing asthma. While the natural beauty and tranquility of Sterling are appealing, the realities of healthcare access must be carefully considered before making a move. Careful planning, including understanding drive times, exploring ride-sharing options, and establishing a relationship with a healthcare provider, is essential for individuals with asthma who choose to reside in this picturesque but geographically isolated region.