15721, Burnside, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15721, Burnside, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.00 percent of residents in 15721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 15.07 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Healthcare Access and Transportation Analysis for ZIP Code 15721 (Burnside, Pennsylvania)**

The breath of life, so easily taken for granted, becomes a daily struggle for those living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). For residents of Burnside, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15721), the ability to manage this debilitating illness hinges on reliable **transportation** and convenient **healthcare access**. This report assesses the challenges and opportunities faced by COPD patients in this rural community, providing a "COPD Score" based on the availability of various **transportation** options to medical facilities. This analysis is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Burnside** and seeking to understand the practicalities of managing their health.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of Burnside is Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), located approximately 15 miles away in Indiana, PA. This distance, while seemingly manageable, presents significant hurdles for COPD patients, who often experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and mobility limitations. The journey to IRMC, the epicenter of their healthcare needs, necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options.

The most common mode of travel is personal vehicle. The primary route involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 286 (also known as the Clymer-Indiana Highway), a two-lane road that can experience heavy traffic during peak hours. The drive typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the driver's pace. This route is relatively direct, but the lack of shoulders and the potential for slow-moving vehicles can add to the stress and discomfort for a COPD patient.

Alternatively, residents can utilize US Route 119, a slightly longer route that offers a four-lane highway experience for a portion of the trip. This option may be preferable for some, particularly those seeking a smoother, less winding drive. However, the added distance might negate any time savings, and the potential for traffic congestion remains a factor. The choice between these two routes depends on individual preferences and real-time traffic conditions.

Public **transportation** options in Burnside are limited. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus service within the county, but the routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of COPD patients. The ICTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices. However, the frequency of service, particularly to and from Burnside, is infrequent, and the travel time to IRMC can be significantly longer than driving.

ICTA Route 10, the primary route serving the Burnside area, operates on a limited schedule, with only a few trips per day. This schedule may not align with medical appointments or emergency situations. The route may also require transfers, adding to the overall travel time and potentially exacerbating the patient's condition. Furthermore, the bus stops may not be conveniently located near the residences of all COPD patients, necessitating additional walking, which can be challenging.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Indiana, PA area. However, their availability in Burnside itself is less reliable. The limited population density and the rural nature of the area may result in longer wait times and higher fares. This option can be a viable solution for some, but it is not a consistently dependable **transportation** choice for regular medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions, are also available. These services offer door-to-door service, often with trained personnel who can assist patients with mobility challenges. However, these services are typically more expensive than other **transportation** options, and their availability may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments.

Several medical **transportation** providers serve the Indiana County area. These include, but are not limited to, companies such as LifeFleet Ambulance and TransCare Ambulance. These providers offer a range of services, including non-emergency medical transport, which can be a valuable resource for COPD patients. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some, and the availability of these services may be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments.

The availability of these services, including ride-share and medical transport, is a crucial factor for individuals considering **moving to Burnside** with COPD. The cost, reliability, and accessibility of these options directly impact the patient's ability to manage their condition effectively.

The COPD Score for Burnside, PA (ZIP Code 15721) reflects the multifaceted challenges of accessing healthcare. The score is influenced by factors such as the distance to IRMC, the availability and reliability of public **transportation**, the cost and availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services, and the overall accessibility of the healthcare system.

The score is also impacted by the physical environment, including the condition of roads and sidewalks, the availability of accessible parking at medical facilities, and the presence of air quality issues. These factors can exacerbate the symptoms of COPD and make it more difficult for patients to access the care they need.

For a COPD patient in Burnside, the reliance on personal vehicles is the most common. The drive to IRMC, while manageable, can be stressful and tiring. Public **transportation** is limited and may not be a viable option. Ride-sharing services are available but not always reliable. Medical **transportation** services provide a valuable option but can be expensive.

The COPD Score for Burnside, PA, would likely fall in the moderate range, reflecting the challenges and opportunities faced by COPD patients in this rural community. The availability of personal vehicles is a significant advantage, but the limitations of public **transportation** and the cost of medical **transportation** services pose significant challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Burnside**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and healthcare access is essential. They should consider the availability of personal vehicles, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical **transportation**. They should also investigate the accessibility of medical facilities and the availability of support services for COPD patients.

The COPD Score is not just a number; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of those battling this debilitating illness. It is a call to action for the community to improve healthcare access and ensure that all residents, regardless of their health condition, can live full and healthy lives. This includes advocating for improved public **transportation**, expanding the availability of medical **transportation** services, and promoting policies that support the needs of COPD patients.