18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18704, Kingston, Pennsylvania is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.05 percent of residents in 18704 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with a distance of 1.69 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kingston, PA (ZIP Code 18704)

The air hangs heavy with the ghosts of anthracite in Kingston, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled along the Susquehanna River. For residents of ZIP code 18704, particularly those managing asthma, the quality of life hinges not only on the air they breathe but also on their ability to swiftly and reliably access healthcare. This write-up delves into the "Asthma Score" of this specific geographic area, examining the challenges and opportunities presented by the transportation landscape in relation to healthcare access. The aim is to provide prospective residents, especially those **moving to Kingston**, with a clear understanding of how easily they can reach medical care in case of an asthma exacerbation.

The cornerstone of this assessment is the critical need for rapid **transportation** to medical facilities. Asthma attacks can escalate quickly, transforming a manageable condition into a life-threatening emergency. Delays in reaching a hospital or urgent care center can have devastating consequences. Therefore, the “Asthma Score” prioritizes the speed and dependability of various transportation options.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

Kingston, like much of Northeastern Pennsylvania, is car-dependent. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the major roadways. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, a primary healthcare provider, is located in Plains Township, approximately a 10-minute drive from the heart of Kingston. This journey typically involves navigating the often-congested Wyoming Avenue, a vital commercial corridor. Another option is to take the North Cross Valley Expressway (PA-309), which can provide a slightly faster route depending on traffic conditions. This is especially important for those experiencing an asthma attack, as the speed of **transportation** to the hospital can be the difference between life and death.

The drive to Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, another major healthcare facility, is also about a 10-15 minute drive. This route usually requires navigating the city streets, including Market Street and River Street. Again, this is dependent on traffic conditions. The availability of multiple routes is beneficial, offering flexibility in case of congestion or road closures. However, the reliance on personal vehicles can pose a challenge for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to a car.

The drive times assume normal traffic conditions. Rush hour, accidents, and inclement weather can significantly increase travel times, making it crucial to factor in these variables when assessing the overall "Asthma Score." The importance of reliable **transportation** cannot be overstated.

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides public transit services within the region. However, the network's utility for asthma sufferers is limited. Route 9, the primary route serving Kingston, offers connections to Wilkes-Barre and other surrounding communities. The frequency of buses, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a significant deterrent for someone experiencing an asthma attack. Waiting for a bus could be detrimental.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a positive feature of the LCTA system, with all buses equipped with ramps and other accommodations. This is vital for individuals with mobility limitations who may also be managing asthma. However, the inherent unpredictability of bus schedules and the potential for delays can make public transit a less-than-ideal option during a respiratory crisis. The need for readily available and reliable **transportation** to medical facilities is paramount.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Kingston area. These services offer a more flexible and potentially faster alternative to public transit, especially during off-peak hours. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, and the availability of drivers, particularly during peak demand, is not always guaranteed. This is something to consider when **moving to Kingston**.

Medical **transportation** services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers, play a critical role in ensuring healthcare **access**. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those experiencing asthma exacerbations. Ambulance services provide immediate care and rapid transport to the nearest emergency room. NEMT services cater to individuals who require assistance with scheduled medical appointments.

Local ambulance services, such as Medic 10, are strategically located to provide rapid response times. However, it is essential to understand the financial implications of these services, as they can be costly, and insurance coverage varies. The availability of NEMT services, such as Care Ride or other local providers, is crucial for those who need assistance with routine medical appointments, such as pulmonologist visits or medication refills.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View:**

The “Asthma Score” is not just about drive times and **transportation** options; it also encompasses the broader context of healthcare **access**. The availability of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and pharmacies within the Kingston area is crucial. The proximity of these facilities to residential areas can significantly impact the ease with which individuals can manage their asthma.

The presence of urgent care centers, such as the Geisinger Convenient Care, provides an additional layer of support. These centers offer immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions, including asthma exacerbations. The ability to quickly access these facilities can prevent a minor flare-up from escalating into a full-blown emergency.

The availability of pharmacies, such as CVS or Rite Aid, is also important. These pharmacies provide easy **access** to medications, including inhalers and other asthma-related prescriptions. The ability to quickly obtain these medications can be critical in managing asthma symptoms.

**Moving to Kingston: Considerations for Asthma Sufferers:**

For individuals **moving to Kingston** with asthma, a thorough assessment of the **transportation** landscape is essential. The following factors should be carefully considered:

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** Prioritize housing options located near hospitals, urgent care centers, and pharmacies.
* **Reliable transportation:** Ensure access to a personal vehicle or identify reliable ride-sharing or medical **transportation** options.
* **Public transit limitations:** Understand the limitations of public transit and factor in potential delays.
* **Emergency preparedness:** Develop an asthma action plan and familiarize yourself with emergency **transportation** protocols.
* **Healthcare provider network:** Establish relationships with local physicians, pulmonologists, and pharmacies.

The "Asthma Score" for ZIP code 18704, while not perfect, offers a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare **access**. While driving times to healthcare facilities are relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning and preparedness. For those **moving to Kingston**, a proactive approach to managing asthma, including understanding the **transportation** options and building a strong healthcare network, is crucial for maintaining a high quality of life. The goal is to ensure that the air in Kingston, while perhaps carrying the echoes of the past, does not become a barrier to a healthy future.