15921, Beaverdale, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15921, Beaverdale, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.78 percent of residents in 15921 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 9.07 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 15921 (Beaverdale)

The ability to readily access healthcare is paramount, particularly for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up assesses the accessibility of medical facilities for residents of ZIP Code 15921 (Beaverdale), focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. We will explore the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape, providing a COPD Score framework to evaluate the ease of reaching essential medical appointments. The aim is to inform prospective residents, especially those considering moving to Beaverdale, about the realities of healthcare access within this community.

Beaverdale, nestled within Cambria County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The area is largely car-dependent, with limited public transit options. This reality significantly impacts individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and reduced mobility. These limitations can make navigating complex transportation networks a significant hurdle, potentially delaying or preventing necessary medical care.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary roadways serving Beaverdale are Route 219 and Route 403. Accessing larger medical centers often necessitates travel on these routes. Driving times can vary considerably depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific destination. A trip to UPMC Altoona, a major regional hospital, typically involves a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour via Route 219. This journey can be arduous for someone with COPD, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Smaller clinics and doctor's offices are scattered throughout the region. The drive to a local primary care physician within the Johnstown area, perhaps utilizing roads like Scalp Avenue or Eisenhower Boulevard, might take 15-20 minutes. However, even these shorter trips can be challenging for those with breathing difficulties. The physical act of driving, coupled with the potential for unexpected traffic, can exacerbate COPD symptoms.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Landscape:**

Public transportation options in 15921 are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service, but the routes and schedules may not be ideal for all healthcare needs. The CCTA operates several routes that traverse the Johnstown area, but direct routes to specialized medical facilities may be infrequent or nonexistent. This lack of direct access often necessitates multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and the physical exertion required.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. The CCTA strives to provide accessible services, but the frequency and reliability of these features should be verified. Individuals with COPD may require assistance with boarding and disembarking, and the availability of these services is a critical factor in healthcare access. The CCTA website or local transit offices should be consulted for up-to-date information on routes, schedules, and accessibility features.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Johnstown area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary. Individuals with COPD should consider the potential for delays in securing a ride, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. The financial burden of ride-sharing can also be a significant concern, particularly for those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and may be equipped to handle individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. However, the availability and cost of medical transportation can vary, and advance booking is often required. Researching and contacting local medical transportation providers is crucial for those seeking this type of assistance.

**COPD Score Framework:**

To assess healthcare access for individuals with COPD in 15921, we can develop a COPD Score based on several factors:

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to the nearest primary care physician, specialist, and major hospital.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The frequency, directness, and ADA-accessibility of public transit routes to medical facilities.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The estimated wait times, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability, cost, and service area of medical transportation providers.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance and accessibility of local pharmacies for medication refills.

Each factor can be assigned a score based on its impact on healthcare access. For example, longer drive times, infrequent public transit, and limited ride-sharing options would receive lower scores. The overall COPD Score would then reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare within the community.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape in Beaverdale:**

Living in Beaverdale presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals with COPD. The car-dependent nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit options, can create significant hurdles in accessing healthcare. However, the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation, along with the proximity of local clinics, offers some potential solutions.

Prospective residents, particularly those considering moving to Beaverdale, should carefully evaluate their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Researching local transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, is essential. Consulting with healthcare providers and support groups can also provide valuable insights and guidance.

The COPD Score framework can be a useful tool for assessing healthcare access within 15921. By considering the factors outlined above, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they have the resources necessary to manage their condition effectively. Ultimately, the goal is to facilitate seamless and timely access to medical care, empowering individuals with COPD to live healthier and more fulfilling lives.