15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15775, Spangler, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.88 percent of residents in 15775 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Punxsutawney Area Hospital with a distance of 25.73 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Spangler, PA (ZIP Code 15775)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 15775 (Spangler, PA), providing a "COPD Score" that reflects the ease or difficulty of reaching essential medical services. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to offer a clear picture for residents and those considering relocating to Spangler, particularly those with COPD.

Spangler, a small community in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The area is largely rural, influencing transportation choices and impacting the overall COPD Score. The assessment considers the nearest hospitals, specialist clinics, pharmacies, and other healthcare facilities, evaluating the feasibility of reaching them given the available transportation infrastructure.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

The primary mode of transportation in Spangler is the personal vehicle. The area is served by several key roadways. Pennsylvania Route 219, a major north-south artery, provides access to larger towns and cities, including Ebensburg and Johnstown. Pennsylvania Route 403 offers an east-west connection. Local roads, such as Main Street and Maple Avenue, facilitate movement within the immediate Spangler area.

Drive times are a critical factor. Reaching UPMC Altoona Hospital, a significant regional medical center, requires a drive of approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, mainly via Route 219. This drive can be particularly challenging during inclement weather, which is common in the region. Accessing Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, a closer option, typically takes around 45 minutes, primarily via Route 219. Smaller clinics and pharmacies within Ebensburg are generally accessible within 20-30 minutes.

For individuals with COPD, the physical demands of driving, especially over longer distances, can be significant. The need for frequent rest stops, the potential for exacerbations during travel, and the challenges of navigating unfamiliar routes can all contribute to a diminished quality of life. The COPD Score will reflect these driving-related factors.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Spangler are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service in the region, but its routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for frequent medical appointments. CCTA Route 10, for instance, might offer a connection to Johnstown, but the frequency of service and the potential for multiple transfers could make it a less-than-optimal choice for those with COPD.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. CCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall travel time can still pose challenges. The COPD Score will factor in the limitations of public transit, including route availability, frequency, and accessibility.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may have limited availability in Spangler. Their presence is often dependent on the demand in the area. While they could provide a convenient option for some, the reliability and cost-effectiveness of these services for regular medical appointments need careful consideration.

Specialized medical transportation services are available, offering a more tailored solution for individuals with COPD. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, assistance with mobility, and trained personnel to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. Companies like First Transit or other local medical transport providers may be operating in the area. However, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, and their availability may vary. The COPD Score will assess the availability and affordability of these specialized services.

**Pharmacies and Local Healthcare**

Access to pharmacies and local healthcare providers is crucial. Spangler has pharmacies within the community, providing convenient access to medications and other healthcare essentials. Local primary care physicians are available, potentially offering initial consultations and ongoing management of COPD. However, specialist care, such as pulmonologists, may require travel to Johnstown or Altoona.

**Moving to Spangler: A COPD-Specific Perspective**

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Spangler, a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape is essential. The COPD Score should be a significant factor in the decision-making process. While Spangler offers a peaceful, rural environment, the limitations in transportation options, particularly for specialized medical care, must be carefully weighed against the potential benefits.

**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The COPD Score for Spangler, PA (ZIP Code 15775) will be determined based on a weighted assessment of the factors discussed above. The score will consider drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical transportation. The score will also reflect the proximity of pharmacies and the availability of local healthcare providers.

A higher COPD Score would indicate greater ease of access to healthcare, while a lower score would suggest significant challenges. The COPD Score will be presented as a numerical value, with a corresponding narrative explaining the implications for individuals with COPD. The final score will provide a comprehensive overview of the healthcare accessibility landscape in Spangler, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The score will also serve as a valuable resource for healthcare providers and community organizations seeking to improve healthcare access for residents of Spangler.