15542, Garrett, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15542, Garrett, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.90 percent of residents in 15542 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.50 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Meyersdale Medical Center with a distance of 4.45 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Garrett, PA (ZIP Code 15542)

The crisp air of Garrett, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Somerset County, might beckon those seeking a quieter life. Yet, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the realities of healthcare access, particularly concerning **transportation**, demand careful consideration. This write-up provides a comprehensive COPD Score assessment for ZIP Code 15542, focusing on the practicalities of reaching essential medical care. It is an essential tool for anyone considering **moving to Garrett**, or already residing there, and living with COPD.

The COPD Score assesses the ease with which a resident can access healthcare, factoring in factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. Each element is evaluated to paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals with COPD in this rural setting. The ultimate goal is to inform and empower residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary arteries connecting Garrett to healthcare facilities are the state highways. Pennsylvania Route 219, a major north-south thoroughfare, provides access to larger towns and cities. Traveling south on PA-219 offers a route to Johnstown, approximately a 45-minute drive, where several hospitals and specialist clinics are located. This journey involves navigating winding roads and potential traffic, particularly during peak hours. The condition of PA-219 is generally good, but winter weather can pose significant challenges, impacting drive times and safety.

Heading north on PA-219 leads towards Ebensburg, another town with medical facilities, though the drive is slightly longer, typically around an hour. This route also presents similar challenges related to road conditions and seasonal weather. Local roads, such as PA Route 56 and various county roads, serve as connectors, but these are often narrow and less well-maintained, adding to the complexity of **transportation**.

The nearest hospitals, including UPMC Somerset and Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, are located within an hour's drive. These are crucial for emergency care and specialized treatment. Regular appointments, however, necessitate careful planning and consideration of travel time. The ability to drive oneself is a significant factor, and for those who cannot, alternative **transportation** options become critical.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public transit options in ZIP Code 15542 are limited. The Somerset County Transportation Authority (SCTA) provides some services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially for areas outside of the immediate town centers. The SCTA operates a demand-response system, requiring advance booking, which may not always be feasible for urgent medical needs.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration for individuals with COPD who may have mobility limitations. While the SCTA strives to provide accessible services, availability can be constrained, and booking well in advance is essential. The lack of frequent service and the need for pre-booking significantly impact the overall COPD Score.

The nearest major public transit hub is located in Johnstown, but accessing this hub from Garrett would require a combination of local **transportation** and potentially a long wait time. The reliance on demand-response services, coupled with limited frequency, presents a significant barrier to consistent healthcare access for COPD patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Garrett is limited. Availability is often sporadic, and wait times can be extended, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for those requiring timely access to medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT), offer a more specialized solution. These services are designed to transport individuals with medical needs, including those with COPD, to and from appointments. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including local ambulance services and private companies specializing in NEMT. These providers offer varying levels of service, from basic wheelchair transport to stretcher services. The availability of these services, however, is not guaranteed, and booking in advance is crucial.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond **transportation**, several other factors influence healthcare access for COPD patients in Garrett. The availability of primary care physicians and pulmonologists within a reasonable distance is paramount. The proximity of pharmacies to fill prescriptions is also essential.

Telehealth services can play a valuable role in bridging the geographical gap, enabling patients to consult with their physicians remotely. However, access to reliable internet service is a prerequisite, and this can be a challenge in some areas of Somerset County. The ability to monitor oxygen saturation levels and other vital signs at home, through the use of remote monitoring devices, can also help to improve healthcare access and management.

The overall COPD Score for ZIP Code 15542 reflects the interplay of these factors. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in **transportation** options and the rural setting present significant challenges for individuals with COPD.

**Conclusion:**

For individuals with COPD considering **moving to Garrett**, or already residing there, a proactive approach to healthcare planning is essential. This involves assessing **transportation** needs, identifying reliable means of reaching medical appointments, and exploring alternative healthcare delivery models. The limited public transit options, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on private medical transport highlight the need for careful consideration.

The COPD Score for Garrett, PA, is moderate, reflecting a balance between the availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance and the challenges posed by limited public transit and ride-sharing options. Individuals with COPD should prioritize establishing a strong relationship with their healthcare providers, developing a comprehensive **transportation** plan, and exploring all available resources to ensure timely access to care.