18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 18517, Taylor, Pennsylvania is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.14 percent of residents in 18517 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Regional Hospital Of Scranton with a distance of 3.48 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Taylor, PA (ZIP Code 18517)**

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), reliable and accessible transportation to healthcare appointments is paramount. This analysis, the "COPD Score," evaluates transportation options within Taylor, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18517), focusing on commute times, public transit accessibility, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access for those considering moving to Taylor or already residing there.

Taylor, a borough nestled in Lackawanna County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While offering a close-knit community, its transportation infrastructure requires careful consideration for those with COPD, a disease that often restricts mobility and necessitates frequent medical visits. The score reflects the reality of navigating the area, considering the specific needs of individuals with respiratory challenges.

**Driving the Landscape: Commute Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of transportation in Taylor is personal vehicle. The ease of driving, however, depends heavily on the destination and the time of day. Accessing healthcare facilities in Scranton, the nearest major city, necessitates navigating several key roadways.

Traveling to Geisinger Community Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, involves a drive primarily along **South Main Avenue**, which transitions into **Keyser Avenue** before connecting to **Providence Road**. The journey, typically spanning 15-20 minutes, can extend during peak traffic hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes. Congestion can be a significant challenge for individuals with COPD, potentially exacerbating breathing difficulties.

Another critical route involves accessing the **Interstate 81 (I-81)**, a major north-south artery. From Taylor, accessing I-81 often involves using **South Main Avenue** to connect to **East Grove Street** and then to the on-ramps. This route can be relatively straightforward, but the interstate itself can experience heavy traffic, especially during rush hour and inclement weather.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Taylor are limited. The Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus services, but their routes and schedules are often less frequent than those in larger metropolitan areas.

The primary LCTA route serving Taylor is the **Route 20**, which travels along **South Main Avenue**. This route connects to Scranton, offering access to several healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of Route 20 is limited, with buses typically running hourly or less frequently, especially on weekends. This necessitates careful planning and can lead to extended wait times.

The accessibility of LCTA buses is a crucial factor. All LCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service present challenges for individuals with COPD, particularly those who may experience sudden breathing difficulties and require immediate medical attention.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre area, including Taylor. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive.

However, the availability of ride-sharing services can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. During peak hours or in areas with limited service, wait times can be longer, and surge pricing may apply. This can pose a financial burden and create logistical challenges for those with COPD who require regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services specifically cater to individuals with healthcare needs. Several companies operate in the area, including LifeFleet and CareRide. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. While these services provide a valuable resource, they can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Factor for Moving to Taylor**

For individuals considering moving to Taylor, the availability and accessibility of healthcare are paramount. The proximity to Scranton offers access to a wide range of medical specialists and facilities. However, the transportation challenges must be carefully considered.

The COPD Score emphasizes the importance of planning for healthcare access. This includes assessing the availability of transportation options, considering the potential for traffic delays, and understanding the limitations of public transit. Individuals with COPD should also investigate the availability of medical transportation services and the coverage of these services by their insurance plans.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

The COPD Score for Taylor, PA (18517) reveals a mixed landscape. While driving offers the most direct access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and the potential for exacerbating breathing difficulties must be considered. Public transit provides a valuable, albeit limited, option, with accessibility features but infrequent service. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer alternatives, but their availability and cost can be factors.

Ultimately, the best transportation strategy depends on the individual's specific needs and circumstances. Careful planning, including understanding the limitations of available transportation options and exploring alternative solutions, is essential for ensuring reliable healthcare access in Taylor. For those with COPD considering moving to Taylor, a thorough assessment of these transportation factors is crucial for making an informed decision and ensuring a high quality of life.