18503, Scranton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18503, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.00 percent of residents in 18503 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 0.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Regional Hospital Of Scranton with a distance of 0.66 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18503

The crisp mountain air of Scranton, Pennsylvania, holds a certain charm, but for those managing asthma, understanding the intricacies of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up, focusing on ZIP Code 18503, aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating the ease of reaching medical care. This assessment considers transportation options, acknowledging the critical link between accessibility and quality of life for individuals with respiratory conditions. If you are considering moving to Scranton, particularly if you have asthma, this information is designed to inform your decision-making process.

The "Asthma Score" will be determined by analyzing the available transportation networks and their capacity to facilitate timely and reliable access to healthcare facilities, specifically those equipped to handle asthma-related emergencies and ongoing management. We will delve into the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers available within the 18503 ZIP Code.

**Driving Times and Road Networks**

The backbone of transportation in 18503 is the road network. The proximity to major highways and arterial roads significantly impacts healthcare access. For example, Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC), a primary healthcare provider, is located within the ZIP Code. Reaching GCMC from various points within 18503 primarily involves navigating city streets and potentially utilizing the Interstate 81 (I-81).

Driving times to GCMC from different locations within 18503 can vary. Residents in the western part of the ZIP Code, closer to the Montage Mountain Ski Resort, might experience slightly longer travel times due to the need to navigate local roads. However, generally, the drive to GCMC should be within a reasonable timeframe, usually under 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Other healthcare facilities, such as outpatient clinics or specialized respiratory care centers, may be located further away. Accessing these facilities could necessitate using I-81 or Route 6, the main east-west artery. Peak traffic hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times, potentially exacerbating the challenges for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms.

The condition of the roads, including snow and ice during winter months, can also pose a significant challenge. Residents with asthma should be prepared for potential delays and plan accordingly, particularly when urgent medical attention is required.

**Public Transportation: A Mixed Bag**

The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides public transportation within the Scranton area. Several bus routes traverse the 18503 ZIP Code, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes are crucial factors in assessing healthcare access.

The LCTA operates various routes, and some may offer direct or indirect access to GCMC and other healthcare facilities. Riders should check the specific route schedules and consider the transfer times. Public transportation might be less convenient than driving, especially during off-peak hours or emergencies.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with asthma who may have mobility limitations. LCTA buses are equipped with features such as ramps or lifts to ensure accessibility for passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the public transportation system can still pose challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Options and Limitations**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Scranton and can provide an on-demand transportation option. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who do not own a car or prefer not to drive. However, ride-sharing availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand might also impact affordability.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are essential for individuals requiring assistance with medical appointments or emergency situations. Several providers operate in the Scranton area, offering various levels of care and transportation.

Choosing the right medical transport option will depend on the individual's medical needs and insurance coverage. Ambulance services are typically reserved for emergencies, while NEMT services can provide transportation to and from medical appointments for those who cannot drive or do not have access to other transportation options.

**Assessing the "Asthma Score"**

To create an "Asthma Score," we must consider the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average travel times to GCMC and other healthcare facilities during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Frequency, coverage, and ADA accessibility of LCTA routes serving healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Reliability and cost of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** Availability and accessibility of ambulance and NEMT services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance to pharmacies offering asthma medications and supplies.

Based on these factors, we can assign a score reflecting the ease of access to healthcare for individuals with asthma. A higher score would indicate better access, while a lower score would suggest greater challenges.

**Moving to Scranton with Asthma: Considerations**

If you are considering moving to Scranton and have asthma, the "Asthma Score" can be a valuable tool. Assess your individual needs and preferences. Do you rely on public transportation? Do you have access to a car? Are you comfortable using ride-sharing services?

Consider the location of healthcare facilities and pharmacies within 18503. Evaluate the availability of specialized respiratory care and emergency services. Research the local air quality and pollen counts, as these factors can significantly impact asthma symptoms.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Scranton is a personal one. By carefully considering the transportation options, healthcare access, and environmental factors, you can make an informed decision that supports your health and well-being. The goal is to ensure that healthcare access is not a barrier to a fulfilling life in this charming city.