15924, Cairnbrook, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15924, Cairnbrook, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.86 percent of residents in 15924 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Chan Soon- Shiong Medical Center At Windber with a distance of 8.29 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cairnbrook (ZIP Code 15924)

The crisp mountain air of Cairnbrook, Pennsylvania, nestled within ZIP code 15924, offers a certain allure. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the practicalities of daily life, particularly **transportation** and **healthcare access**, demand careful consideration. This write-up assesses the challenges and opportunities for residents of Cairnbrook, providing a “COPD Score” based on available **transportation** options to healthcare facilities, crucial for managing this debilitating respiratory illness. The goal is to provide a clear picture for current residents and those potentially **moving to Cairnbrook**, ensuring informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Cairnbrook, a small community, presents a unique set of circumstances regarding **healthcare access**. The nearest major medical centers are located in Johnstown, a city approximately 15 miles away. This distance, while seemingly manageable, translates into variable travel times depending on the chosen mode of **transportation** and prevailing weather conditions. For individuals with COPD, even minor delays or exposure to environmental irritants can exacerbate symptoms, making reliable and efficient **transportation** paramount.

Driving to Johnstown from Cairnbrook is the most common method. The primary route involves taking the US-219 South, a major highway connecting the region. This stretch of road, generally well-maintained, can be traversed in approximately 20-30 minutes under ideal conditions. However, during peak hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, traffic congestion is possible, potentially adding significant time to the journey. Winter weather, common in the region, can introduce hazardous driving conditions, extending drive times considerably and increasing the risk of accidents. Alternative routes, like using local roads such as Scalp Avenue, offer potential detours but are often narrower and less well-maintained, potentially adding further complications for individuals with compromised respiratory function.

Public **transportation** options in Cairnbrook are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service throughout the county, but its routes and frequency are restricted, especially in more rural areas. While the CCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring accommodations for individuals with disabilities, the routes serving Cairnbrook are infrequent, often operating only a few times a day. This limited schedule presents a significant challenge for those needing regular medical appointments, such as pulmonary rehabilitation or routine check-ups. The nearest bus stop to Cairnbrook may require a considerable walk, which could be difficult for individuals with COPD.

The CCTA route number 15, which travels from Johnstown to Windber, does pass through Cairnbrook, but the schedule is not conducive to medical appointments. This makes it necessary to plan carefully and potentially spend a considerable amount of time waiting for the bus. The lack of frequent service also restricts flexibility, making it difficult to accommodate unexpected medical needs. The CCTA website provides detailed route maps and schedules, but navigating these resources requires digital literacy, which is not always accessible to everyone.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Cairnbrook is less consistent. While a ride might be secured, the wait times can be longer than in urban areas, and the cost can be significantly higher, particularly during periods of high demand or inclement weather. This unpredictability can be a major concern for individuals with COPD, who require timely and reliable **transportation** to manage their condition. The availability of ride-sharing services also depends on the availability of drivers, which can vary.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. Companies like MedStar and other specialized providers operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically provide door-to-door service, including assistance with getting in and out of the vehicle, which can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, making them less accessible for those with limited financial resources. Availability can also be limited, particularly during peak hours or in emergency situations.

The location of healthcare facilities also plays a crucial role. The closest hospitals, including Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center and UPMC Altoona, are located in Johnstown. Accessing these facilities requires navigating the **transportation** challenges described above. Specialty clinics, such as pulmonology practices, are also primarily located in Johnstown, adding to the **transportation** burden for COPD patients. The availability of these services, coupled with the **transportation** difficulties, significantly impacts the overall **healthcare access**.

The “COPD Score” for Cairnbrook (15924) is therefore moderately challenging. While driving offers the most direct route, the potential for traffic delays, hazardous weather conditions, and the distance to healthcare facilities pose significant obstacles. Public **transportation** is limited and infrequent, and the availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent. Medical **transportation** services offer a viable option but can be costly and require pre-planning.

For individuals considering **moving to Cairnbrook** with COPD, careful consideration of these factors is essential. Proximity to family or friends who can provide **transportation** assistance is highly beneficial. Exploring the availability of medical **transportation** services and understanding their costs and procedures is also crucial. Planning medical appointments in advance and allowing ample time for travel are essential strategies. Ultimately, the ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is critical for ensuring adequate **healthcare access** and maintaining a good quality of life for those living with COPD in Cairnbrook.