18508, Scranton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18508, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.06 percent of residents in 18508 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Dickson City with a distance of 1.75 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Scranton's 18508

The crisp mountain air of Scranton, Pennsylvania, often lauded for its beauty and affordability, presents a unique challenge for individuals managing asthma. Specifically, within the 18508 ZIP code, the accessibility of healthcare, a critical factor for asthma sufferers, intertwines with the realities of local transportation. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" analysis, explores the complexities of commuting to medical appointments, providing insights for residents and those considering a move to Scranton, specifically focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access.

The very fabric of Scranton’s infrastructure, interwoven with the legacy of coal and industry, shapes the transportation landscape. The primary arteries, Interstate 81 (I-81) and the smaller but significant Route 6, influence commute times. For residents of 18508, a drive to the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine or the Moses Taylor Hospital, both crucial healthcare providers, often involves navigating these roadways. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to stress and prolonged exposure to vehicle emissions.

Driving, while offering flexibility, presents its own set of challenges. The winding roads and hilly terrain of Scranton can make driving stressful, and the availability of parking at healthcare facilities can be unpredictable. From 18508, a drive to the Moses Taylor Hospital, located off of Ash Street, typically takes 10-15 minutes under ideal conditions. However, traffic on Boulevard Avenue, a primary route, can easily double that time. Similarly, reaching the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, situated near Montage Mountain, involves navigating I-81, a commute that can vary considerably depending on traffic flow.

Public transportation, a crucial alternative, offers varying degrees of accessibility. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) operates several bus routes that serve the 18508 ZIP code. Route 12, for example, provides service along the main thoroughfares, offering a potential connection to healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, may be limited. Moreover, the LCTA's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility, while present, requires careful consideration. Passengers with mobility limitations or those managing asthma symptoms may find the boarding process and the potential for crowded buses challenging.

The LCTA website provides route maps and schedules, allowing residents to plan their journeys. However, the reliance on bus schedules and the potential for delays can make it difficult to adhere to strict appointment times. For asthma sufferers, this uncertainty can be particularly stressful. Planning ahead, factoring in potential delays, and considering alternative transportation options are essential for ensuring timely access to healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as a convenient, if potentially more expensive, alternative. These services offer on-demand transportation, eliminating the need to navigate traffic or rely on fixed bus schedules. However, the availability of drivers in Scranton, particularly during off-peak hours, may be limited. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, offer another option. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services often offer door-to-door service, assisting with mobility challenges and ensuring a comfortable ride. However, eligibility requirements and pre-booking are typically necessary.

For individuals considering a move to Scranton, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. The Asthma Score, in this context, involves assessing the ease and reliability of accessing healthcare facilities from the prospective residence. Proximity to bus routes, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical transportation all factor into this assessment.

The choice of neighborhood within the 18508 ZIP code can significantly impact healthcare access. Areas closer to major roads and bus routes offer greater convenience. However, these areas may also be exposed to higher levels of air pollution, potentially impacting asthma symptoms. Therefore, the Asthma Score should also incorporate an assessment of air quality and environmental factors.

The availability of urgent care facilities and pharmacies within the 18508 ZIP code also plays a crucial role. Quick access to medication and medical attention in case of an asthma exacerbation is essential. The proximity of these facilities to transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and pharmacies with drive-through services, can significantly improve the Asthma Score.

The presence of asthma specialists and pulmonologists within the healthcare network is another important consideration. Access to specialized care is critical for effective asthma management. The Asthma Score should evaluate the availability of these specialists and the ease of scheduling appointments.

In conclusion, navigating healthcare access in Scranton's 18508 ZIP code requires a nuanced understanding of the local transportation landscape. The Asthma Score, a comprehensive assessment, considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transportation. By carefully evaluating these factors, residents and prospective movers can make informed decisions, ensuring timely and reliable access to healthcare, which is crucial for managing asthma and maintaining a good quality of life in this beautiful yet challenging environment. The best approach is a multi-pronged one: a combination of careful planning, awareness of local resources, and proactive engagement with the healthcare system.