15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15937, Jerome, Pennsylvania is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.67 percent of residents in 15937 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center with a distance of 7.77 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jerome, PA (ZIP Code 15937)

Considering a move to Jerome, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15937), and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This assessment provides a COPD Score, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare within the area, focusing on transportation options crucial for managing this chronic respiratory condition. Understanding the ease of getting to appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care is paramount for individuals living with COPD, significantly impacting their quality of life. This write-up will dissect the transportation landscape, revealing the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access in this rural community.

The COPD Score will consider factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Each element is weighted based on its practical impact on a COPD patient's ability to reach necessary medical resources. The goal is to provide a realistic picture, empowering informed decision-making for those considering relocating or currently residing in Jerome.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation in Jerome is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The landscape is dominated by the need for a car. The nearest hospitals and specialized pulmonary care facilities are located in Johnstown, approximately 15-20 miles away. This translates to a drive time of roughly 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

The most direct route to Johnstown involves navigating the winding roads. This journey primarily utilizes **Route 56** and **Route 219**. These highways, though well-maintained, can be challenging during inclement weather, particularly snow and ice, common in the region during winter months. The drive requires careful attention, potentially increasing the stress levels for individuals with COPD.

Reaching other healthcare providers, such as specialists or rehabilitation centers, might involve additional travel. For example, a pulmonologist located in a neighboring town could add another 15-20 minutes to the journey. Consider the cumulative impact of these travel times on a patient's energy levels and overall well-being. The COPD Score must reflect the inherent limitations of relying solely on personal vehicles.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Jerome are extremely limited. The local transit authority, **Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA)**, provides bus services in the Johnstown area. However, these services are sparse in rural areas like Jerome. The routes that might serve the periphery of Jerome are infrequent, often running only during peak hours, and may not operate on weekends or holidays.

The CCTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. Yet, the infrequent schedules and limited route coverage severely restrict their usefulness for COPD patients. Waiting for extended periods at bus stops in varying weather conditions could exacerbate respiratory symptoms. The COPD Score must reflect the significant shortcomings of public transit in this context.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Johnstown area, but their presence in Jerome is less consistent. Availability often depends on driver density, which is lower in rural locations. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or for early morning appointments, might prove difficult. The reliability of ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation for healthcare access is questionable.

Medical transport services, such as **Med-Ride** or **First Transit**, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and providing support during the journey. However, medical transport services typically require advance booking and can be costly, potentially posing a financial burden. The COPD Score needs to consider the availability and affordability of these services.

**Pharmacy Access and Emergency Care:**

Access to pharmacies is another crucial aspect of healthcare access. The nearest pharmacies are located in Johnstown, requiring the same drive times as for hospital visits. This necessitates careful planning for medication refills and prompt access to necessary medications.

Emergency care access is a critical consideration for COPD patients. The nearest emergency rooms are located in Johnstown hospitals. In the event of a respiratory emergency, the drive time to the hospital is a significant factor. Emergency medical services (EMS) are available in Jerome, but the response time and the transport time to the hospital must be considered.

**The COPD Score Calculation:**

The COPD Score will be calculated using a weighted system, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time to Nearest Hospital:** (Weight: 30%) – Longer drive times negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit Availability:** (Weight: 20%) – Limited or nonexistent public transit lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Reliability:** (Weight: 15%) – Inconsistent availability reduces the score.
* **Medical Transport Availability and Cost:** (Weight: 20%) – Limited availability and high costs lower the score.
* **Pharmacy Access:** (Weight: 15%) – Distance to pharmacies impacts the score.

**Moving to Jerome with COPD: Considerations:**

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Jerome, careful planning is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate a robust transportation plan.

Individuals should assess their ability to drive safely, especially during inclement weather. Establishing a network of support, including family, friends, or caregivers, is crucial for providing transportation assistance. Exploring medical transport options and understanding their associated costs is also important.

**Conclusion: A Realistic Assessment:**

The COPD Score for healthcare access in Jerome, PA (ZIP code 15937) is likely to be moderate to low. The area’s reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing services pose significant hurdles for individuals with COPD. While medical transport services can bridge some gaps, their cost and availability must be considered. Moving to Jerome requires careful planning, emphasizing a proactive approach to healthcare access and transportation. The COPD Score highlights the importance of understanding these challenges, empowering informed decisions for individuals managing COPD who are considering making Jerome their home.