18707, Mountain Top, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 18707, Mountain Top, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.31 percent of residents in 18707 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with a distance of 8.52 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18707

The crisp mountain air of Mountain Top, Pennsylvania, in ZIP code 18707, beckons with promises of scenic beauty and a slower pace of life. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the allure of this community must be carefully weighed against the realities of healthcare access. This write-up serves as an "Asthma Score" analysis, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for managing this chronic respiratory condition. Understanding these factors is vital for anyone considering moving to Mountain Top, ensuring they can readily access the medical care necessary to maintain their health.

The primary concern for residents of 18707 is the distance to specialized asthma care. While local physicians may offer initial treatment, access to pulmonologists, allergists, and emergency services necessitates considering transportation. The availability and reliability of transportation options directly impact the Asthma Score, determining the ease and speed with which a patient can reach a doctor's office or hospital.

The most common mode of transportation in Mountain Top is the personal vehicle. Driving provides the most flexibility and control, allowing for direct routes and accommodating unexpected flare-ups. However, traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times. The primary arteries connecting Mountain Top to surrounding areas are Interstate 81 (I-81) and Pennsylvania Route 309 (PA-309).

Traveling south on PA-309 offers access to Wilkes-Barre, the nearest city with a comprehensive healthcare system. Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, a major regional hospital, is approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive, depending on traffic. This route is generally straightforward, but the potential for congestion, especially near the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, must be factored in.

Heading north on I-81 provides access to hospitals in Scranton, about a 45- to 60-minute drive. While this route is typically faster than PA-309, weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to critical medical care.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service, but routes serving Mountain Top are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Route 17, for instance, travels between Wilkes-Barre and Mountain Top, with stops along the way. However, the schedule may not align with appointments, and the limited frequency necessitates careful planning.

Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. While LCTA strives to provide accessible buses, the availability of wheelchair lifts and other accommodations should be verified, especially for individuals with severe asthma who may have difficulty walking long distances or navigating stairs. The lack of comprehensive public transportation significantly impacts the Asthma Score, as it restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability and cost can vary. Ride-sharing services may be less readily available in rural areas like Mountain Top, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can also be a significant financial burden for individuals managing a chronic illness.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized option. Companies like CareRide and Medical Transportation Services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing, but they offer a higher level of care and support. The availability and responsiveness of these services are crucial factors in the Asthma Score, as they provide a lifeline for those unable to drive or use public transportation.

The location of pharmacies also plays a role in healthcare access. Mountain Top has several local pharmacies, but the availability of specialized asthma medications and equipment should be verified. In some cases, patients may need to travel to larger pharmacies in Wilkes-Barre or Scranton to obtain specific prescriptions or medical supplies. The distance and transportation challenges associated with pharmacy access further impact the Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score for 18707 is moderate. While Mountain Top offers a pleasant living environment, the limited transportation options to healthcare facilities pose a challenge for asthma patients. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration.

For individuals considering moving to Mountain Top with asthma, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and capabilities is crucial. They must evaluate their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Furthermore, proactively establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, including pulmonologists and allergists in Wilkes-Barre or Scranton, is essential. Understanding their office hours, appointment scheduling procedures, and emergency protocols is vital. Familiarizing oneself with the routes to these facilities and identifying alternative transportation options in case of emergencies is equally important.

The Asthma Score is not static; it can be improved through proactive measures. Advocating for improved public transportation options, supporting local initiatives to increase healthcare access, and educating oneself about available resources can positively impact the score.

In conclusion, while Mountain Top offers a desirable lifestyle, the challenges associated with healthcare access must be carefully considered by individuals with asthma. A comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape, proactive planning, and a commitment to advocating for improved resources are essential for ensuring that residents of 18707 with asthma can effectively manage their condition and enjoy a healthy, fulfilling life. The proximity to I-81 and PA-309, while offering access, also highlights the reliance on personal vehicles, a key factor in the overall Asthma Score assessment.