18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.14 percent of residents in 18517 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Regional Hospital Of Scranton with a distance of 3.48 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Taylor, PA (ZIP Code 18517)

The air hangs thick with the promise of both opportunity and challenge in Taylor, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled in the heart of Lackawanna County. For individuals managing asthma, the ability to breathe easy is inextricably linked to reliable **transportation** and seamless **healthcare access**. This write-up, designed to assess the "Asthma Score" for residents of ZIP code 18517, delves into the practical realities of commuting to healthcare facilities, offering a nuanced perspective on the ease and difficulty of navigating the borough. We will examine the available **transportation** options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and evaluate their suitability for individuals with respiratory sensitivities.

The cornerstone of **healthcare access** in Taylor, and the surrounding region, is the ability to reach medical appointments promptly and efficiently. For those who own a car, the primary arteries for navigating the area are Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south thoroughfare, and the smaller, more localized routes such as Route 6 and Route 11.

Driving to the nearest major hospital, Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC) in Scranton, presents a relatively straightforward journey. From Taylor, the most direct route involves taking Route 6 East, then merging onto I-81 South. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes. The speed and efficiency of this route are paramount for asthma sufferers.

Another vital healthcare provider is Commonwealth Health Moses Taylor Hospital, also in Scranton. The trip to Moses Taylor Hospital from Taylor is equally manageable, utilizing the same highways, I-81 South and Route 6. The drive time, similar to the GCMC route, is typically between 15 and 20 minutes.

However, driving is not always an option. For individuals who are unable to drive, or who prefer alternative means of **transportation**, public transit becomes a crucial consideration. The Lackawanna County Transportation System (LCTS) provides bus service throughout the region.

The LCTS operates several routes that serve Taylor. Route 17, for example, offers service along Main Avenue, a central thoroughfare in Taylor, connecting residents to Scranton. While this route provides a vital link to healthcare facilities, the travel time is significantly longer than driving. The journey to GCMC or Moses Taylor Hospital via Route 17, including potential transfers, can easily exceed 45 minutes to an hour, a significant consideration for those experiencing an asthma exacerbation.

Furthermore, the accessibility of LCTS buses for individuals with disabilities, including those with asthma who may require assistance, is a critical factor. All LCTS buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and are designed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. This ensures that individuals with mobility challenges can access public transit. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially creating difficulties for those needing urgent medical attention.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another option for **transportation** to healthcare appointments. These services provide a degree of flexibility and convenience, particularly for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or who find public transit challenging. The availability of ride-sharing services in Taylor is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5 to 15 minutes.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments. The price of a ride to GCMC or Moses Taylor Hospital, for instance, can range from $15 to $30, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. This cost can quickly accumulate, making it a less sustainable option for regular healthcare needs.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, are also available in the area. These services, often provided by companies like American Medical Response (AMR) or local ambulance services, offer specialized **transportation** for patients who require assistance or medical supervision during their journey. These services are typically reserved for non-emergency medical **transportation** and can be a crucial resource for individuals with asthma who may require oxygen or other medical support during their commute.

The availability of medical **transportation** services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have difficulty breathing or who are experiencing an asthma flare-up. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and they are often not covered by insurance for routine appointments.

The overall "Asthma Score" for **healthcare access** in Taylor, PA, ZIP code 18517, is a mixed bag. The proximity of major hospitals like GCMC and Moses Taylor Hospital is a significant advantage. The ease of driving, with drive times under 20 minutes, provides relatively quick access to essential medical care.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a potential disadvantage for those who do not drive or who lack access to a car. The public transit system, while offering a crucial alternative, suffers from longer travel times and limited service frequency, especially during off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing services and the limited availability of affordable medical **transportation** options further complicate the picture.

For individuals considering **moving to Taylor**, or for existing residents, the "Asthma Score" highlights the importance of careful planning. The ability to drive, or the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing services, can significantly improve **healthcare access**. For those reliant on public transit, understanding the LCTS routes, schedules, and ADA features is crucial.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for Taylor, PA, reflects a landscape where **healthcare access** is achievable but not without its challenges. The availability of various **transportation** options offers a degree of flexibility, but the cost, travel times, and accessibility of each option must be carefully considered. The ability to breathe easy in Taylor, for those managing asthma, is directly linked to the ability to navigate the complexities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**.