15757, Mahaffey, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15757, Mahaffey, Pennsylvania is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.20 percent of residents in 15757 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.71 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 15.10 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 15757 (Mahaffey, PA)

The air hangs heavy in the lungs of those battling Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and the journey to healthcare can feel just as arduous. This analysis, a "COPD Score," evaluates the accessibility of healthcare in and around ZIP Code 15757 (Mahaffey, Pennsylvania), a rural community nestled in Clearfield County. We’ll examine the critical elements of transportation, a lifeline for those managing this debilitating respiratory illness, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of healthcare access for residents, especially those considering moving to Mahaffey.

The primary concern for COPD patients is minimizing exertion and exposure to environmental irritants. Long commutes, especially in inclement weather, can exacerbate symptoms. Driving is the most common mode of transportation in this area, but the road network presents its own set of challenges. Mahaffey's location, while offering a sense of tranquility, necessitates travel to larger towns and cities for specialized medical care.

The most direct route to larger medical facilities involves navigating the local roadways. Route 36, a major north-south artery, provides access to Clearfield, approximately 20 miles south. The drive, typically taking 30-40 minutes, is relatively straightforward, but can be hampered by traffic, particularly during peak hours. The condition of the road surface, especially during winter months, can pose a significant challenge for those with breathing difficulties.

Heading east, Route 879 offers a route to DuBois, roughly 30 miles away. This drive, taking about 45-60 minutes, involves more winding roads and potential for delays. The terrain can be demanding, and the lack of shoulders on some stretches of road can increase anxiety for drivers and passengers. The availability of oxygen and other medical equipment during the drive is crucial.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides some bus services, but their routes and schedules may not be ideal for healthcare appointments. CCATA’s services are primarily demand-response, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This can create logistical hurdles, especially for those with unpredictable health needs.

The CCATA website indicates that ADA-accessible vehicles are available, a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations often associated with COPD. However, the frequency of service, particularly to medical facilities outside of Clearfield, might be insufficient. The lack of regular routes to specialty clinics and hospitals presents a significant barrier to healthcare access. Information regarding the specific bus numbers and routes that service the medical facilities in the region is not readily available.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are present in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially in Mahaffey. The rural nature of the community may limit the number of drivers available, leading to longer wait times and potential surge pricing. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for those who rely on these services for healthcare transportation.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. Ambulance services are readily available for emergency situations. However, for routine appointments, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers are essential. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation for patients with medical needs.

Several NEMT providers operate in the Clearfield County area. Their services vary in terms of coverage, vehicle types, and availability. Investigating the specific providers that serve Mahaffey, their insurance acceptance policies, and their ability to accommodate medical equipment, such as oxygen tanks, is vital.

The COPD Score for Mahaffey, PA, reflects the challenges faced by residents with respiratory illnesses. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation create significant barriers to healthcare access. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning.

For those considering moving to Mahaffey, a thorough assessment of their individual healthcare needs and transportation requirements is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of NEMT services, and the ability to navigate the local road network are critical factors. The COPD Score highlights the importance of proactive planning to ensure access to timely and appropriate medical care.

The need for improved public transportation, including expanded routes and increased frequency, is evident. Increased investment in NEMT services, ensuring accessibility and affordability, would significantly improve healthcare access for COPD patients. The expansion of ride-sharing services, with a focus on reliability and affordability, would also be beneficial.

The COPD Score underscores the interconnectedness of transportation and healthcare. Addressing the transportation challenges in Mahaffey is not just about convenience; it's about improving the quality of life and ensuring access to life-saving medical care for those battling COPD. The journey to healthcare should not be another burden on already compromised lungs.