15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15856, Rockton, Pennsylvania is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.09 percent of residents in 15856 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn Highlands Elk with a distance of 24.54 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rockton, PA (ZIP Code 15856)

The picturesque borough of Rockton, Pennsylvania, nestled within the rolling hills of Clearfield County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serene beauty of this region must be carefully balanced with the practicalities of healthcare access. This COPD Score write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 15856, assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Rockton, particularly those with respiratory conditions.

The foundation of healthcare access in Rockton lies in the availability of transportation. For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transport. The major artery serving Rockton is Interstate 80 (I-80), a vital east-west corridor. From Rockton, a drive east on I-80 provides access to healthcare facilities in Clearfield, approximately 15 miles away. The journey, typically taking around 20-25 minutes, is generally straightforward, though weather conditions, especially during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and road safety.

Further afield, the city of DuBois, roughly 20 miles west of Rockton, offers a more extensive array of healthcare options. Accessing DuBois involves navigating a combination of roads, primarily Pennsylvania Route 879 (PA-879) and eventually connecting to US Route 219. The drive, usually lasting around 30-40 minutes, requires careful attention, particularly as PA-879 is a two-lane road with varying speed limits. This route can be subject to congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides bus services within the county. However, these services are not extensive, and routes serving Rockton are infrequent. Specific route numbers and schedules are subject to change, so checking the CCATA website is essential. Furthermore, it's critical to assess the accessibility features of the buses, such as wheelchair lifts and designated seating, to ensure they meet the needs of individuals with COPD. ADA compliance is a crucial factor.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable, especially for those requiring prompt and consistent transportation. The cost of these services can also be a significant consideration, particularly for frequent trips.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer another avenue. These services often provide door-to-door transport, assisting with mobility challenges and offering specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate medical equipment. Researching local medical transport providers is crucial. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, service area, and the availability of trained personnel who can assist with patients with respiratory issues.

The COPD Score for Rockton, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Clearfield and DuBois offers access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges. Individuals with COPD must carefully consider their transportation needs when evaluating healthcare access.

The ease of driving to healthcare facilities is a significant factor. The relatively short drive times to Clearfield, combined with the availability of major highways, provides a degree of convenience. However, the potential for weather-related delays and the need for vigilance on two-lane roads like PA-879 cannot be ignored. This highlights the importance of planning trips in advance and allowing ample time for travel.

The limited public transit options pose a significant hurdle for those unable to drive. The infrequent bus schedules and the need to verify ADA compliance necessitate careful planning and coordination. Individuals relying on public transit may face longer travel times and potential difficulties in reaching their appointments. This underscores the need for proactive communication with healthcare providers to schedule appointments that align with the available transportation options.

Ride-sharing services offer a potential alternative, but their reliability and cost must be carefully evaluated. The fluctuating availability and the potential for higher fares can create uncertainty and financial strain. Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, but their availability and coverage area must be thoroughly researched.

The availability of emergency services is also a crucial consideration. In the event of a COPD exacerbation, rapid access to medical care is paramount. The proximity to hospitals in Clearfield and DuBois is a positive factor. However, the time it takes for emergency services to reach a patient in Rockton and transport them to a hospital must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Rockton with COPD, a comprehensive assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the feasibility of utilizing public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport services.

Furthermore, it is essential to establish a strong relationship with healthcare providers in the area. This includes discussing transportation needs, coordinating appointment schedules, and exploring options for telehealth consultations or home healthcare visits.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Rockton (ZIP code 15856) presents a nuanced picture. While the area offers a tranquil environment and access to healthcare facilities, the transportation landscape presents challenges. Individuals with COPD must carefully assess their transportation needs, plan their healthcare access proactively, and leverage available resources to ensure they can receive the necessary medical care. This requires a multi-faceted approach, integrating personal vehicles, public transit (if available), ride-sharing, medical transport, and strong communication with healthcare providers. The success of managing COPD in Rockton hinges on a well-coordinated strategy that prioritizes reliable and accessible transportation to healthcare.