15849, Penfield, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15849, Penfield, Pennsylvania is 16 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.36 percent of residents in 15849 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 25.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 15.74 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15849

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human right, can be a complex odyssey, especially for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 15849 (Penfield, PA), assessing its impact on healthcare access for COPD patients. We will explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the region's transportation infrastructure, ultimately aiming to provide a COPD Score reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing vital medical services. For those considering moving to Penfield, this analysis offers crucial insights.

Penfield, a rural community nestled in Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, presents unique transportation challenges. The area's vastness and limited public transit options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles. This dependence, coupled with potential mobility limitations associated with COPD, significantly impacts healthcare access. COPD patients often experience breathlessness, fatigue, and other debilitating symptoms, making long drives or navigating complex public transit systems particularly arduous.

The primary arteries for transportation in and around Penfield are Pennsylvania Route 153, the main north-south thoroughfare, and U.S. Route 322, a major east-west route. These highways, while offering relatively direct routes to larger towns like Clearfield and DuBois, can present challenges. Drive times, particularly during inclement weather or peak traffic hours, can become extended and unpredictable. The winding nature of some roads, especially along Route 153, can be problematic for individuals with breathing difficulties.

The nearest major medical facilities are located in Clearfield, approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive depending on traffic and weather conditions. The Penn Highlands Clearfield Hospital, a primary care facility, offers a range of services including pulmonary rehabilitation, critical for COPD management. DuBois, another 30- to 45-minute drive, houses Penn Highlands DuBois, a larger hospital with specialized pulmonary care and access to specialists. For those living in the more remote areas of 15849, these drive times can be a significant barrier to timely medical attention.

Public transportation options in Penfield are limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides bus services, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on connecting larger towns within the county. CCATA does offer demand-response services, requiring advance booking, which may be suitable for individuals with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, the availability of these services during off-peak hours or for specialized medical appointments might be restricted, potentially hindering healthcare access. The ADA features on CCATA buses, such as wheelchair lifts and priority seating, are crucial for accommodating the needs of COPD patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Clearfield County area, but their presence is inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Penfield. Availability depends on driver density and demand, which can fluctuate significantly. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is, therefore, not always a reliable option. The cost of these services can also be a significant burden for individuals on fixed incomes, further exacerbating the challenges of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. These services, such as MedTrans or local ambulance companies, provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, the availability and cost of these services vary. Patients must research and evaluate these options carefully, considering the potential financial implications and scheduling constraints.

The COPD Score for 15849 reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. While medical transportation services offer a viable alternative, their availability and cost must be carefully considered. The long drive times to major medical facilities and the potential for unpredictable weather conditions further complicate the situation.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Penfield, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and capabilities is crucial. They should consider the following factors: the distance to medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, the cost of transportation, and their ability to manage the physical demands of travel.

The COPD Score in this area is influenced by the necessity of personal vehicles. The lack of robust public transit and the inconsistent presence of ride-sharing services place a significant burden on COPD patients. While medical transportation services provide a potential solution, their availability and cost may be a limiting factor. The drive times to healthcare facilities, compounded by weather and traffic, further complicate access.

The challenges highlighted in this analysis underscore the importance of proactive planning for individuals with COPD residing in or considering a move to Penfield. This involves identifying reliable transportation options, establishing relationships with local medical providers, and exploring available resources, such as patient advocacy groups or community health programs. The goal is to create a support system that minimizes transportation barriers and ensures timely access to vital medical care.