18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 18504, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.79 percent of residents in 18504 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Regional Hospital Of Scranton with a distance of 1.69 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Scranton's 18504

Considering a move to Scranton, Pennsylvania, and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? Understanding healthcare access is paramount. This analysis, a "COPD Score," examines transportation options within ZIP Code 18504, a critical factor influencing your ability to receive timely and effective medical care. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a picture of how easily you can reach vital healthcare services.

The essence of this score lies in evaluating the ease of **transportation** to healthcare facilities. A high score signifies readily available and efficient options, while a lower score indicates potential challenges. This is particularly relevant for COPD patients, who may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and other limitations, making convenient and reliable transport crucial.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

For those who prefer the autonomy of a personal vehicle, the primary arteries for navigating 18504 are Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south route, and smaller roads like Scranton Expressway (US-6), and local thoroughfares. The drive time to key healthcare providers will significantly impact your score.

Geisinger Community Medical Center (GCMC), a prominent hospital, is located at 1800 Mulberry Street, Scranton, PA 18510. From the heart of 18504, a drive to GCMC typically takes 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Accessing the hospital is easily managed via Mulberry Street, or if you're coming from the North, you can take the Scranton Expressway (US-6).

Another important medical facility, Commonwealth Health Regional Hospital of Scranton, at 746 Jefferson Ave, Scranton, PA 18510, is generally a 5-7 minute drive, accessible via local streets like Jefferson Avenue. These short drive times contribute positively to the COPD Score.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Lackawanna County Transit System**

The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS), commonly known as COLTS, offers public transportation within the Scranton area. Several bus routes serve 18504, offering an alternative to driving. However, public transit can present challenges for COPD patients.

Route 20, for example, serves areas within 18504, including stops near GCMC. The route is accessible, with buses featuring wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of buses may be limited, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving. Waiting at bus stops in varying weather conditions can also exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

Route 21, another option, provides service along major roads. COLTS offers a paratransit service, known as "COLTS Access," designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities who cannot use the regular bus service. This service requires advance booking and can provide door-to-door transportation, significantly improving **healthcare access** for those with mobility limitations.

The COLTS system is committed to ADA compliance, which is an important factor. Yet, the overall COPD Score for public transit is tempered by the potential for longer travel times and the need for careful planning.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Scranton, providing on-demand **transportation**. This offers a more flexible option than public transit, especially for those with unpredictable appointment schedules. Ride-sharing can be particularly helpful for those who cannot drive due to their condition.

Medical transport services, like First Transit and several local providers, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service and may offer specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs or other medical equipment. They are a valuable resource for COPD patients who require assistance.

**Evaluating the COPD Score: A Holistic View**

The COPD Score for 18504 is a composite of these factors. The short drive times to major hospitals and clinics contribute positively. The availability of COLTS, with its ADA-compliant features and paratransit service, also improves the score. The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services further enhances the accessibility of healthcare.

However, the score is not without its caveats. The frequency of COLTS routes and the potential for longer travel times, especially during peak hours, must be considered. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can also be a factor.

**Moving to Scranton: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals with COPD considering **moving to Scranton**, 18504 presents a generally favorable scenario. The proximity of hospitals, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a reasonable level of **healthcare access**.

The COPD Score would be higher if public transit was more frequent and more readily available. However, the existing options provide a foundation for accessing essential medical care.

Before making a move, prospective residents should carefully assess their individual needs and preferences. Researching specific healthcare providers, understanding the availability of medical transport services, and exploring the COLTS paratransit program are crucial steps.

Ultimately, the COPD Score for 18504 suggests that while challenges exist, particularly concerning public transit, the overall **transportation** landscape supports relatively easy access to healthcare, making it a viable option for those managing COPD.