47640, Hazleton, Indiana COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 47640, Hazleton, Indiana is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.67 percent of residents in 47640 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gibson General Hospital with a distance of 9.77 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hazleton (47640)

The crisp air of Hazleton, Indiana, in ZIP code 47640, offers a certain charm, but for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the practicalities of life, particularly **healthcare access**, demand careful consideration. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the **transportation** landscape, crucial for those seeking regular medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and respiratory support. It aims to provide a realistic picture for prospective residents, especially those **moving to Hazleton**, factoring in drive times, public transit options, and alternative transport solutions.

Hazleton is a small town, and its healthcare infrastructure reflects this. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are in larger regional centers, making **transportation** a significant factor. The primary concern for COPD patients is timely and reliable access to care. This assessment prioritizes the practical challenges of getting to and from medical appointments, especially during exacerbations, which can be unpredictable and require immediate attention.

Driving, for many, remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The primary artery serving Hazleton is Indiana State Road 58, connecting it to surrounding communities. Heading east on SR-58 leads to Washington, Indiana, a town offering a hospital and various specialist clinics. The drive is approximately 20-25 minutes, a manageable distance, assuming favorable weather conditions and no traffic delays. SR-58 is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose challenges.

Further afield, for more specialized care, Evansville, Indiana, presents a greater challenge. The journey involves navigating SR-58 to US-41 South. The drive to Evansville, home to several major hospitals and pulmonology specialists, takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. This longer travel time necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The US-41 corridor can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours.

Public **transportation** options in Hazleton and the surrounding area are limited. There is no established public bus system directly serving the town. This absence significantly impacts individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their COPD symptoms. This lack of public **transportation** presents a substantial barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and availability in Hazleton are not guaranteed. Demand can be low, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of frequent rides can quickly become prohibitive, impacting the financial well-being of individuals managing COPD. Therefore, ride-sharing should be viewed as a supplemental, not a primary, **transportation** solution.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized option for patients needing assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) in the area. These services typically offer door-to-door transport, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or oxygen requirements. However, availability and cost vary, and advance booking is usually required.

One of the key considerations for COPD patients is the presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on any available **transportation** options. This is especially relevant for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or oxygen tanks. The lack of a robust public transit system with ADA-compliant features is a significant drawback in Hazleton.

The "COPD Score" for **healthcare access** in Hazleton reflects the challenges presented by limited **transportation** options. While driving provides the most direct route to care, the reliance on personal vehicles creates vulnerabilities related to weather, health crises, and financial constraints. The lack of reliable public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

For those **moving to Hazleton** with COPD, careful consideration of these factors is paramount. Proximity to family or friends who can provide **transportation** support is a significant advantage. Exploring medical **transportation** services and establishing relationships with local providers is also crucial. Planning for potential exacerbations and ensuring access to emergency **transportation** is essential.

The local healthcare providers in Hazleton are likely aware of the **transportation** challenges faced by their patients. Building strong relationships with these providers and seeking their guidance on navigating the **transportation** landscape is recommended. They may be able to offer insights into available resources or provide assistance in coordinating **transportation** to appointments.

Ultimately, the "COPD Score" for Hazleton emphasizes the need for proactive planning and resourcefulness. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in **transportation** options necessitate a strategic approach to **healthcare access**. Those considering **moving to Hazleton** with COPD must weigh the benefits of the community against the practical challenges of accessing timely and reliable medical care. The success of managing COPD in Hazleton hinges on a comprehensive **transportation** strategy, incorporating personal vehicles, medical **transportation** services, and strong support networks.