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15767, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

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Travel Score in 15767, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15767, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.11 percent of residents in 15767 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.84 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 1.46 miles from the area.

Health Scores in 15767, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania

COPD Score 17
People Score 12
Provider Score 45
Hospital Score 33
Travel Score 48

Closest Hospital - PUNXSUTAWNEY AREA HOSPITAL

Estimated Cars

Housholds with Cars (%) 15767 Punxsutawney Pennsylvania
No Cars 7.10 7.10 5.04
1 Car 20.16 20.16 21.45
2 Cars 41.25 41.25 41.29
3 or More Cars 31.49 31.49 32.22

Vehicular Access in 15767, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania

Travel Score Review of 15767, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Punxsutawney (ZIP Code 15767)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), access to timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. Relocating or residing in a new area necessitates a thorough assessment of transportation options, particularly in a rural setting. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of the transportation landscape in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 15767), evaluating its impact on healthcare access for COPD patients. Our analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive "COPD Score" perspective.

Punxsutawney, nestled in the heart of Jefferson County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. The town's location, while offering a serene and picturesque environment, also means that healthcare facilities are often located outside of the immediate vicinity. This necessitates a careful evaluation of available transportation options, especially for those with COPD who may experience mobility limitations or require frequent medical appointments. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Punxsutawney.

**Driving the Distance: A Highway to Healthcare**

The primary roadways serving Punxsutawney are crucial for understanding healthcare access. Route 119, a major north-south artery, provides the most direct route to larger towns and cities offering specialized medical care. The drive to Indiana, Pennsylvania, home to Indiana Regional Medical Center, typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is a critical consideration, as the hospital offers specialized pulmonary care services.

Traveling east or west on Route 36, a secondary highway, provides access to smaller towns and local medical offices. However, these routes may present longer travel times and potential delays due to winding roads and rural traffic. The drive to DuBois, Pennsylvania, with its larger medical facilities, is generally an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes, primarily utilizing Route 119 and Route 219. This longer drive time underscores the importance of reliable transportation and the potential for increased stress and fatigue for COPD patients.

Navigating these roadways requires careful planning, particularly during inclement weather. Snow and ice can significantly impact drive times and road safety, making it essential for COPD patients to have backup transportation plans and consider weather forecasts when scheduling appointments. This includes ensuring vehicles are properly equipped for winter driving and having a reliable support network for assistance.

**Public Transit: A Limited Route**

Public transportation options in Punxsutawney are limited. The Jefferson County Transportation Authority (JCTA) provides bus services within the county, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly on weekends and evenings. The primary route serving Punxsutawney is likely to be a local route, potentially requiring transfers to reach healthcare facilities outside of town.

Accessibility for COPD patients is a critical concern. While the JCTA is mandated to provide ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair accessibility, it is essential to confirm the availability of these features on specific routes and at specific times. Patients should contact the JCTA directly to inquire about route details, schedule adherence, and the availability of accessible vehicles. This is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey to medical appointments.

The lack of frequent and extensive public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for COPD patients who cannot or prefer not to drive. This emphasizes the importance of exploring alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing and medical transport services.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some areas, but their presence in Punxsutawney is uncertain. Availability can vary depending on driver availability and demand. Checking the app for service availability and pricing before scheduling an appointment is essential. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for COPD patients. These services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, offer transportation to and from medical appointments. They often provide assistance with mobility, oxygen, and other medical needs.

These services can be a lifeline for individuals with COPD, but they often come with higher costs. It is crucial to investigate insurance coverage for medical transportation and to explore all available options to find the most affordable and reliable service. This may include comparing prices, checking reviews, and confirming the provider's experience with COPD patients.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

The "COPD Score" for Punxsutawney (15767) reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges for those with COPD. The drive times to specialized healthcare facilities, while manageable, require careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

The availability of ride-sharing services is uncertain, and the cost of medical transport can be a barrier. The limited public transit options further compound these challenges, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to.

This score is not a definitive judgment, but rather a framework for assessing the impact of transportation on healthcare access. It is vital for COPD patients considering moving to Punxsutawney to carefully evaluate their individual needs and preferences. This includes assessing their ability to drive, their financial resources, and their comfort level with various transportation options.

**Moving to Punxsutawney: Informed Decision-Making**

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Punxsutawney, a proactive approach is essential. Thoroughly research local healthcare providers, including their specialties and the availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs. Contact the JCTA to inquire about public transit routes and ADA-compliant services. Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Consider the impact of weather conditions on travel times and road safety. Build a support network that can provide assistance with transportation and other needs. This comprehensive approach will empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their relocation and ensure they have access to the healthcare they need. Moving to Punxsutawney requires a proactive approach to healthcare access.

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Health Scores Near 15767, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania

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Health Scores in 15767, Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania