15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15728, Clymer, Pennsylvania is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.51 percent of residents in 15728 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 20.03 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Clymer, PA (ZIP Code 15728)

Clymer, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Indiana County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the availability and accessibility of healthcare become paramount. This analysis, a "COPD Score" write-up, assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 15728, focusing on how easily residents can reach necessary medical appointments and services. This is particularly crucial when considering a move to Clymer, where mobility and healthcare access directly impact quality of life.

The primary concern for COPD patients revolves around timely access to medical care. This includes routine check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, medication refills, and emergency services. Transportation options, therefore, become critical, as COPD often limits physical exertion and endurance.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

Clymer's location presents a unique challenge. The town is relatively isolated, and the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to significant healthcare facilities involves navigating the region's roadways.

For residents needing specialized care, the closest major hospital is UPMC Altoona, approximately 70 miles away. The drive primarily utilizes **US Route 119** south, connecting to **US Route 22** east, and then **Interstate 99** north. Under ideal conditions, this journey takes roughly one hour and 45 minutes. However, weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly extend travel times, impacting the ability of COPD patients to reach urgent care.

Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), located in Indiana, PA, is a closer option. The drive, approximately 15 miles, primarily uses **US Route 119** south. This trip typically takes around 20-25 minutes. IRMC offers a range of services, including pulmonary care, making it a more accessible option for routine appointments. However, even this short drive can be challenging for individuals with severe COPD, necessitating careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout Indiana County. Accessing these facilities often involves traveling on local roads, such as **State Route 403** and **State Route 553**. Drive times to these locations vary depending on the specific destination but generally range from 5 to 30 minutes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Clymer and the surrounding areas is limited, presenting a significant hurdle for COPD patients. The Indiana County Transit Authority (ICTA) provides bus services within the county. However, routes and schedules are infrequent, and services to Clymer are minimal.

ICTA buses operate on fixed routes, and their frequency is not conducive to the needs of COPD patients, who often require frequent appointments. While the ICTA strives to provide ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring ramps and other accommodations for individuals with mobility limitations, the limited service area and schedule constraints present a significant barrier to healthcare access. Detailed route numbers and schedules can be found on the ICTA website, but potential riders should carefully evaluate the feasibility of using public transit for their specific medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Indiana County area, but their availability in Clymer itself can be inconsistent. The reliance on these services can be unreliable, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, becoming a financial burden for individuals with chronic health conditions.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transport Services (MTS) and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for individuals who cannot drive themselves. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, availability and cost vary depending on the provider and the distance traveled.

**Healthcare Access: Navigating the System**

Beyond transportation, healthcare access involves other considerations. The availability of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists in the area is crucial. Fortunately, IRMC in Indiana offers a comprehensive pulmonary care program. However, the wait times for appointments and the availability of specialists can impact access.

Telehealth services can bridge some gaps, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely. However, telehealth requires reliable internet access, which may be limited in some areas of Clymer.

**Moving to Clymer: A COPD-Specific Assessment**

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Clymer, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. The limited public transit, the potential for long drive times to specialized care, and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing services all present challenges.

The COPD Score for Clymer, therefore, is contingent on the individual's ability to drive or access reliable transportation. Those who can drive and have access to a well-maintained vehicle may find the location manageable. However, individuals who rely on public transit or have significant mobility limitations may face considerable difficulties accessing the healthcare they need.

Before making a move, prospective residents should:

* **Assess their ability to drive:** Consider the impact of weather, traffic, and physical limitations on their ability to drive safely.
* **Research medical transportation options:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transportation services in the area.
* **Confirm healthcare provider availability:** Ensure that they can access the specialists and services they require.
* **Evaluate telehealth capabilities:** Determine the reliability of internet access for telehealth appointments.

In conclusion, while Clymer offers a peaceful lifestyle, individuals with COPD must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape and healthcare access before relocating. A proactive approach to planning and securing reliable transportation is crucial for maintaining quality of life and ensuring timely access to essential medical care. The COPD Score, in this context, is a personalized assessment, dependent on individual needs and capabilities, and it should guide decisions regarding moving to Clymer.