19123, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 19123, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.09 percent of residents in 19123 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Thomas Jefferson University Hospital with a distance of 1.13 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 19123**

Choosing a new home, especially when managing a chronic condition like asthma, demands meticulous consideration of healthcare access. This analysis, tailored for ZIP code 19123 in Philadelphia, assesses the ease of commuting to medical facilities, considering various transportation options and their impact on the "Asthma Score" – a hypothetical metric reflecting the convenience and stress associated with healthcare access. This score is crucial for anyone moving to Philadelphia, particularly those seeking optimal healthcare access.

The geographical layout of 19123, encompassing the neighborhoods of Kensington and Fishtown, presents a unique challenge. While offering a vibrant cultural scene, the area's healthcare infrastructure is not as densely concentrated as in Center City. This necessitates a deeper dive into transportation logistics. The Asthma Score will be influenced by the availability, reliability, and environmental impact of each commuting method.

**Driving: The Open Road (and Potential Obstacles)**

Driving offers the most direct route to many healthcare providers. However, the Asthma Score must account for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Navigating the major arteries, like I-95, is a common route. I-95, while efficient, can be a source of stress, especially during rush hour, increasing asthma triggers. The Schuylkill Expressway (I-76), another critical highway, provides access to hospitals further west, but is notorious for bottlenecks.

Smaller roads, such as Aramingo Avenue, Frankford Avenue, and Lehigh Avenue, offer alternative routes, but these can be equally congested, especially around commercial areas. Parking availability near hospitals is another factor. Many hospitals offer parking garages, but these can be expensive and require navigating tight spaces. The Asthma Score must reflect the potential for increased stress and exposure to exhaust fumes associated with driving.

**Public Transit: A Network of Possibilities (and Potential Challenges)**

Philadelphia's public transit system, operated by SEPTA, offers a valuable alternative to driving. The Market-Frankford Line (the "El") is a primary artery, providing rapid transit to Center City and access to several major hospitals. Stations within 19123, like Berks Station, are convenient for many residents. The El's frequency is generally good, but delays can occur, impacting the Asthma Score.

SEPTA's bus network provides extensive coverage within 19123. Routes like the 3, 5, 25, and 57 connect to hospitals and medical offices. Bus travel, however, can be slower and more susceptible to traffic delays. The Asthma Score considers the time spent waiting and traveling, as well as the potential exposure to allergens and irritants within the bus environment.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. SEPTA is committed to providing accessible services, with elevators and ramps at many stations and accessible buses. However, not all stations are fully accessible, and elevator malfunctions can occur, impacting the Asthma Score for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions (and Considerations)**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient option, particularly for those unable or unwilling to drive. The Asthma Score considers the cost and availability of these services, as well as the potential for exposure to allergens and irritants within the vehicles. The driver's smoking habits, for instance, could negatively impact the score.

Medical transport services, like Liberty Medical Transport or MedRide, specialize in transporting patients to medical appointments. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel, potentially improving the Asthma Score for individuals with specific needs. However, the cost of these services can be significant, and availability may be limited.

**Specific Healthcare Access and Asthma Score Implications**

Several hospitals and medical facilities are within reasonable commuting distance of 19123. Temple University Hospital, located a short drive or SEPTA ride away, is a major healthcare provider. Jefferson Health is also accessible, particularly through the Market-Frankford Line. Smaller clinics and specialized practices are scattered throughout the area, offering a range of healthcare options.

The Asthma Score for a resident of 19123 will vary depending on their specific healthcare needs and preferences. For example, someone requiring frequent specialist appointments at Temple University Hospital would likely benefit from the proximity and accessibility of the Market-Frankford Line. Someone with limited mobility might find ride-sharing or medical transport more suitable, despite the higher cost.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Evaluating the Asthma Score for 19123 highlights the importance of considering all transportation options when assessing healthcare access. While driving offers convenience, public transit provides a cost-effective alternative. Ride-sharing and medical transport cater to specific needs. The best option depends on individual circumstances.

Moving to Philadelphia and choosing a home in 19123 requires a careful evaluation of these factors. The Asthma Score, informed by drive times on I-95, I-76, and local roads, the reliability of SEPTA's Market-Frankford Line and bus routes, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, provides a valuable framework for making informed decisions about healthcare access. By understanding the nuances of each transportation method, residents can optimize their healthcare journey and minimize asthma triggers, improving their overall quality of life.