15429, Denbo, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15429, Denbo, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

26.79 percent of residents in 15429 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Mon Valley with a distance of 12.20 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Denbo, PA (ZIP Code 15429)

Considering a move to Denbo, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Fayette County (ZIP Code 15429), and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This analysis provides a COPD Score, evaluating transportation options to healthcare facilities, crucial for managing this chronic respiratory illness. The score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Denbo, specifically those with COPD, ensuring they can readily access necessary medical care.

The COPD Score is not a definitive medical recommendation, but a tool to assess the ease of accessing healthcare. It considers the challenges faced by individuals with COPD, such as shortness of breath and fatigue, which can significantly impact transportation choices. A higher score indicates easier access, while a lower score highlights potential challenges.

Denbo's location presents both advantages and disadvantages. The rural setting offers tranquility, but healthcare access can be a concern. Evaluating transportation options is critical for anyone moving to Denbo, especially those with COPD. The goal is to ensure seamless access to medical appointments, therapies, and emergency care.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Denbo. The closest major healthcare facilities are in Uniontown, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. The primary route involves navigating **Pennsylvania Route 40 (National Pike)**, a historic highway, and then connecting to **US Route 119**. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting travel times.

The drive to Uniontown Hospital, a key healthcare provider, involves navigating these roads, accounting for potential delays. The journey is relatively straightforward, but individuals with COPD should factor in the impact of driving, including potential exertion and exposure to air pollutants.

Other healthcare options, such as specialist clinics, may necessitate longer drives. Accessing facilities in Morgantown, West Virginia, requires traveling on **US Route 119 South** and then **I-68 West**, increasing the commute to approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This extended travel time necessitates careful planning for appointments and potential rest stops.

**Public Transportation Accessibility:**

Public transportation options in Denbo are limited. The **Fayette County Transportation Authority (FCTA)** provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly in rural areas. While the FCTA aims to provide ADA-accessible vehicles, the availability of specific routes serving Denbo and directly connecting to healthcare facilities is limited.

The FCTA does operate routes, but their coverage in Denbo is spotty. Determining the exact route numbers and schedules serving the area and connecting to healthcare facilities requires direct inquiry with the FCTA. The limited frequency of these routes and potential transfer requirements could pose significant challenges for individuals with COPD, particularly those experiencing breathing difficulties.

The availability of ADA-compliant features on FCTA buses is a positive aspect, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the overall reliance on public transportation for healthcare access in Denbo is not ideal.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in Denbo, but their presence is not guaranteed, and availability can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments is potentially unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with healthcare needs. Several companies operate in the region, including **Medical Transportation Management (MTM)** and local providers. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate medical needs.

Medical transportation services are a viable option for individuals with COPD, ensuring safe and reliable transportation to healthcare appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and may involve associated costs. Investigating the availability and cost of these services is essential for anyone considering moving to Denbo with COPD.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The overall healthcare access landscape in Denbo presents both strengths and weaknesses. The proximity to Uniontown provides access to a hospital and various medical specialists. However, the limited public transportation options and potential reliance on driving pose challenges for individuals with COPD.

Individuals with COPD should consider the following factors: the impact of driving on their breathing, the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and availability of medical transportation services. Planning for healthcare access is crucial, ensuring that appointments are scheduled at times that minimize travel stress and that alternative transportation options are readily available.

**The COPD Score for Denbo (15429):**

Considering the factors discussed, the COPD Score for Denbo, Pennsylvania, is moderately challenging. The reliance on driving, the limited public transportation, and the potential need for pre-booked medical transportation services result in a score that necessitates careful planning.

**Recommendations:**

* **Assess Driving Ability:** Evaluate the impact of driving on your breathing and fatigue levels.
* **Explore Medical Transportation:** Research the availability, cost, and reliability of medical transportation services.
* **Plan Appointment Times:** Schedule appointments during off-peak hours to minimize traffic congestion.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** Factor in the travel time to healthcare facilities when choosing a residence.
* **Contact FCTA:** Inquire about specific routes and schedules serving Denbo and connecting to healthcare facilities.

Moving to Denbo with COPD requires careful consideration of transportation options. By proactively planning for healthcare access, individuals can ensure they receive the necessary medical care while enjoying the tranquility of this rural community. The COPD Score serves as a starting point for a more detailed evaluation, enabling informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.