18507, Moosic, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 18507, Moosic, Pennsylvania is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.21 percent of residents in 18507 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Community Medical Center with a distance of 4.36 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 18507

The air hangs heavy in the lungs, a familiar foe for those battling Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In ZIP Code 18507, encompassing the borough of Moosic, Pennsylvania, the challenge extends beyond the physical struggle. Healthcare access, a critical lifeline for COPD sufferers, is inextricably linked to transportation, a complex web woven with highways, public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing services. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, examines the transportation landscape in 18507, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care. This is vital for anyone considering moving to Moosic, especially those managing COPD.

The cornerstone of transportation in 18507 is the automobile. The primary arteries are Interstate 81 (I-81), a major north-south corridor, and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Expressway, also known as US-6. Access to these highways is generally good, though rush hour can create significant delays, particularly on the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Expressway. For those with COPD, even short delays can exacerbate breathing difficulties, making timely arrival at appointments a major concern. Local roads, such as Main Street and Birney Avenue, offer alternative routes, but their stop-and-go traffic and potential for congestion present similar challenges.

Drive times to healthcare facilities in and around Moosic vary depending on the destination and time of day. Geisinger CMC, a major hospital in Scranton, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via I-81, assuming normal traffic conditions. Other medical offices and specialist clinics scattered throughout the region may require longer travel times, potentially exceeding 30 minutes during peak hours. This is a significant factor when considering the need for frequent appointments, such as pulmonary rehabilitation or regular check-ups.

Public transportation, while available, presents a more complicated picture. The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) provides bus service within the area. Several routes, including the 10, 11, and 12, offer service through Moosic, connecting to Scranton and other surrounding communities. However, the frequency of service can be limited, especially on weekends and evenings. For individuals with COPD, waiting in the elements, navigating crowded buses, and the potential for extended travel times can be particularly challenging.

Furthermore, while LCTS boasts ADA-accessible buses, the availability of these vehicles on every route and at every time can't be guaranteed. This is a critical consideration for those with mobility limitations often associated with COPD. The reliance on public transportation necessitates careful planning, requiring individuals to factor in potential delays, transfers, and the physical demands of boarding and disembarking.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. Their availability in the 18507 ZIP Code is generally good, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier, especially for individuals on fixed incomes or with limited financial resources. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, with wait times increasing during peak hours or inclement weather. This unpredictability can be a source of anxiety for those who depend on timely transportation for their healthcare needs.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available in the area. These services often offer specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. While these services can provide a valuable solution for individuals with COPD, they often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent or last-minute appointments. The cost of medical transportation services can also be significant, adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

The "COPD Score" for 18507, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While the presence of major highways and the availability of ride-sharing services offer some advantages, the limitations of public transportation, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost of transportation options present significant challenges for individuals with COPD. The overall score would be negatively impacted by the need to navigate these complexities, especially for those with advanced disease or limited mobility.

For those contemplating moving to Moosic with COPD, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs is crucial. Factors to consider include the frequency of medical appointments, the availability of a personal vehicle, the ability to navigate public transportation, and the financial resources to cover transportation costs. Prospective residents should also research the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized COPD care, and the accessibility of these facilities via various transportation modes.

The ease of healthcare access is a crucial determinant of quality of life for those with COPD. In 18507, the ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is paramount. A well-considered plan, incorporating a combination of personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and potentially medical transportation, is essential to ensure timely access to medical care and maintain a good quality of life. The challenges are real, but with careful planning and resourcefulness, residents can navigate the complexities of transportation and receive the essential healthcare they need.