15449, Keisterville, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15449, Keisterville, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.17 percent of residents in 15449 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Uniontown Hospital with a distance of 4.93 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Keisterville, PA (ZIP Code 15449)

Keisterville, nestled in the heart of Fayette County, Pennsylvania, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 15449, focusing on its impact on healthcare access. We’ll evaluate the ease of reaching medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This assessment is crucial for anyone considering moving to Keisterville, offering a comprehensive "COPD Score" to help navigate the complexities of healthcare access.

The COPD Score considers the physical and logistical hurdles faced by individuals with breathing difficulties. Factors like distance, road conditions, and the availability of reliable transport significantly affect a patient's ability to attend appointments, access medications, and participate in pulmonary rehabilitation programs. This analysis aims to provide a clear understanding of the transportation infrastructure in Keisterville and its potential impact on the quality of life for COPD patients.

The primary artery for vehicular transportation in and out of Keisterville is **U.S. Route 40**, also known as the National Pike. This historic road, while offering direct access to Uniontown, the county seat, can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. Drive times to healthcare facilities in Uniontown, such as Uniontown Hospital and various specialist clinics, average between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. The winding nature of Route 40, coupled with potential for adverse weather conditions, could pose a challenge for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Secondary roads, including **Pennsylvania Route 166** and various local roads, provide alternative routes. However, these roads are often narrower and less well-maintained, potentially increasing travel time and discomfort. Navigating these roads requires careful consideration, especially for individuals who may experience shortness of breath or fatigue. The condition of these roads directly influences the COPD Score, as it impacts the safety and ease of travel.

Public transportation options in Keisterville are limited. The **Fayette Area Coordinated Transportation (FACT)** provides bus services throughout the county. However, the frequency of routes within and around Keisterville is relatively low, with limited service on weekends and evenings. While FACT buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and priority seating, the infrequent service can significantly restrict healthcare access for COPD patients. The lack of readily available public transit elevates the COPD Score, as it reduces the independence and flexibility of patients.

The nearest bus route serving Keisterville is likely Route 10, which goes into Uniontown. Route 10 offers stops along Route 40, making it a possible option for those who can reach a designated stop. However, the schedule must be considered, as the infrequent service may not align with appointment times.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Uniontown area. However, their presence in Keisterville is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments requires advance planning and may involve longer wait times, potentially adding to the stress and anxiety associated with COPD. The unpredictability of ride-sharing further impacts the COPD Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more reliable option. Companies such as **MedStar Transportation** and **Care Ride** operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel to assist patients. While medical transport provides a valuable service, it often comes with higher costs and requires advance booking. The availability and cost of these services directly impact the COPD Score.

Healthcare access in Keisterville is further complicated by the geographical distribution of healthcare providers. While Uniontown offers a range of medical specialists and services, the distance from Keisterville necessitates careful planning. The availability of pulmonary specialists, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals is critical for COPD management. The need to travel to Uniontown or other locations for specialized care adds to the transportation burden.

The COPD Score for Keisterville, therefore, reflects a moderate level of challenge in accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services contribute to this score. While medical transport services offer a viable alternative, their cost and the need for advance booking can be a barrier for some individuals.

Individuals considering moving to Keisterville with COPD should carefully evaluate their transportation needs. The COPD Score highlights the importance of having a reliable means of transportation, whether it be a personal vehicle, access to medical transport, or the support of family and friends. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for ensuring timely access to healthcare and maintaining a good quality of life.

The overall COPD Score for Keisterville, PA (ZIP Code 15449) is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to healthcare facilities, primarily along Route 40.
* **Public Transit:** Limited and infrequent public transit options, with ADA-compliant features but potential scheduling challenges.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Variable availability of ride-sharing services, requiring advance planning.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability of medical transport services, but at a higher cost.
* **Road Conditions:** Potential for challenging road conditions, especially on secondary roads and during inclement weather.
* **Geographic Distribution:** The need to travel to Uniontown or other locations for specialized care.

Based on these factors, the COPD Score for Keisterville is a 6 out of 10, with 10 representing the most challenging conditions. This score indicates that while healthcare access is possible, it requires careful planning and consideration of transportation limitations. For individuals with COPD, moving to Keisterville necessitates a proactive approach to securing reliable transportation to ensure consistent access to healthcare services and optimal disease management. The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for informed decision-making when considering moving to Keisterville.