18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.79 percent of residents in 18504 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Regional Hospital Of Scranton with a distance of 1.69 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18504

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change for those considering a move to Scranton, Pennsylvania, specifically within the 18504 ZIP code. This area, a tapestry woven with residential pockets and commercial threads, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for individuals managing asthma. Evaluating the "Asthma Score" – a composite measure of accessibility to healthcare, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical intervention – becomes paramount. This analysis illuminates the realities of navigating the city’s transportation landscape to secure prompt and effective asthma care.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 18504 is the availability of medical facilities. Scranton boasts several hospitals, clinics, and specialized practices, including Geisinger Commonwealth Health and Moses Taylor Hospital. These institutions offer comprehensive asthma management, from diagnosis and treatment to ongoing monitoring and education. However, the mere presence of these facilities is insufficient. The critical factor is the ease with which residents can reach them, particularly during an asthma exacerbation.

Personal vehicle ownership remains a significant factor. Driving times, therefore, are crucial. Several major arteries shape the commute. Interstate 81 (I-81), a north-south corridor, offers relatively swift access to healthcare facilities from various parts of 18504. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the destination hospital, drive times can range from 5 to 20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Pennsylvania Route 6 (PA-6), another vital route, provides east-west connectivity, potentially offering alternative routes to healthcare, although traffic congestion can be a concern, particularly during peak hours. Local roads like Cedar Avenue, Wyoming Avenue, and Jefferson Avenue serve as crucial connectors, but their stop-and-go nature can extend travel times.

Public transportation, provided primarily by the Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS), offers an alternative for those without personal vehicles. Several bus routes traverse 18504, potentially connecting residents to healthcare facilities. Route 9, for instance, travels along Wyoming Avenue, offering access to several medical offices and hospitals. Route 11, operating along Cedar Avenue, provides another option. Route 20, serving the downtown area, can also be a useful transfer point. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, may be limited.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the LCTS is a crucial consideration for individuals with asthma, who may experience mobility challenges during an attack. LCTS buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the system with respiratory distress remain essential factors.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as viable transportation options. These services offer on-demand transportation, potentially providing a quicker and more convenient alternative to public transit, especially during an asthma emergency. However, the availability of ride-sharing vehicles can fluctuate, and the cost can be a barrier for some. Furthermore, the time it takes for a ride-sharing vehicle to arrive can be a critical factor during an asthma exacerbation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Ambulance services are readily available for life-threatening emergencies, providing rapid transport to the nearest hospital. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, such as those offered by CareRide or Medical Transportation Management (MTM), can provide scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who lack other transportation options.

The “Asthma Score” must consider the specific challenges faced by individuals with asthma. Factors such as the severity of their condition, the frequency of exacerbations, and the presence of other medical conditions can significantly impact their transportation needs. For example, someone with severe, uncontrolled asthma may require immediate access to emergency medical services. Conversely, an individual with mild, well-controlled asthma may be able to rely on public transportation or ride-sharing services for routine check-ups.

The seasonal variations in Scranton’s climate also influence the “Asthma Score.” Cold, dry air during the winter months can trigger asthma symptoms, increasing the need for frequent medical visits. Similarly, pollen counts during the spring and summer can exacerbate asthma, necessitating careful planning for outdoor activities and transportation.

The socioeconomic factors within 18504 further complicate the “Asthma Score.” Individuals with lower incomes may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to limited transportation options and financial constraints. The cost of ride-sharing services, the availability of affordable insurance, and the ability to afford necessary medications are all interconnected.

Moving to Scranton with asthma requires a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. The “Asthma Score” should weigh the drive times, the reliability and accessibility of public transportation, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options. The individual’s specific medical needs, socioeconomic circumstances, and the seasonal variations in the local climate must also be taken into account.

For those considering a move to Scranton, particularly within 18504, careful planning is essential. Researching the proximity of healthcare facilities to potential residences, familiarizing oneself with public transportation routes, and establishing a plan for emergency situations are crucial steps. Understanding the nuances of transportation and healthcare access within the city will empower individuals with asthma to make informed decisions and ensure their well-being.

The “Asthma Score” is not a static metric. It is a dynamic assessment that evolves based on individual circumstances and the changing landscape of transportation and healthcare in Scranton. Regular evaluation and adaptation are essential to ensure optimal healthcare access and effective asthma management. The goal is to empower individuals to navigate the transportation network with confidence and to receive timely and appropriate medical care.