15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.45 percent of residents in 15938 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Altoona with a distance of 13.70 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 15938

The air hangs heavy in the lungs of those battling Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a condition that demands consistent and reliable access to healthcare. In the heart of Pennsylvania, ZIP code 15938, encompassing the borough of Lilly, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing COPD. This write-up delves into the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access challenges faced by residents, ultimately crafting a 'COPD Score' to assess the ease of reaching vital medical services.

Lilly, nestled within Cambria County, is a community where the rhythm of life is often dictated by the rolling hills and winding roads. The very terrain, beautiful as it may be, can present a formidable barrier to those with breathing difficulties. Transportation, therefore, becomes a critical determinant of healthcare access. The ability to reach doctors' appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and pharmacies can significantly impact the quality of life for COPD sufferers.

Driving, the primary mode of transportation for many, requires navigating the roads that snake through the region. The primary artery is Route 53, a crucial connector that provides access to Johnstown, the nearest city with comprehensive healthcare facilities. The drive to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Another option is UPMC Altoona, which is about an hour's drive via Route 22 and Route 36. These routes, while relatively direct, can be challenging during winter months, when snow and ice can make driving treacherous. The undulating roads, and the need to manage a vehicle, can be especially difficult for individuals with COPD.

Public transit offers an alternative, though its availability and accessibility are limited. The Cambria County Transit Authority (CCTA) provides bus service within the county. However, routes serving Lilly are infrequent, and the schedule may not align with the needs of those requiring frequent medical appointments. The CCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and designated seating, a crucial feature for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited frequency and potential for long wait times can be a significant deterrent for those managing COPD, who may experience shortness of breath and fatigue.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Johnstown area. However, their presence in Lilly is less consistent. The availability of a ride-share can vary depending on the time of day, the demand, and the driver availability. This unreliability can create anxiety for individuals with COPD who need to plan for predictable transport to medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for those on fixed incomes.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer another option. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation in the region. These services often include door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

Healthcare access in 15938 is further complicated by the availability of medical specialists. While primary care physicians are generally accessible, access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists can require travel to Johnstown or even further afield. This necessitates longer travel times and increased reliance on transportation options. The lack of readily available specialized care in the immediate vicinity can exacerbate the challenges faced by COPD patients.

The journey to healthcare is not solely about physical transportation. The availability of pharmacies, the proximity of oxygen suppliers, and the ability to access home healthcare services all play a crucial role. In Lilly, pharmacies are accessible, but the availability of specialized equipment and services may require travel to larger pharmacies in Johnstown. Home healthcare services are available, but their coverage and frequency can vary depending on the individual's insurance and needs.

The 'COPD Score' for 15938 must consider these factors. The score should reflect the relative ease or difficulty of accessing essential healthcare services. A high score would indicate excellent access, with readily available transportation options, frequent public transit, and a wealth of medical specialists within a short distance. A low score would signify significant challenges, with limited transportation options, infrequent public transit, and the need to travel long distances for specialized care.

Moving to Lilly, for an individual with COPD, requires careful consideration of these factors. The beauty of the region, the sense of community, and the relatively low cost of living may be attractive. However, the challenges of transportation and healthcare access must be weighed against these benefits. The decision to relocate should be made with a clear understanding of the potential difficulties and the need for proactive planning.

The 'COPD Score' for 15938, therefore, is moderate. While driving is possible, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a challenge. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing services are not always reliable. The need to travel to Johnstown for specialized care adds to the complexity. The availability of medical transportation services and home healthcare can mitigate some of the challenges, but the overall picture suggests that individuals with COPD need to plan carefully and be prepared for potential transportation difficulties. The score could be improved by increased public transit frequency, the consistent presence of ride-sharing services, and the expansion of specialized healthcare services within the immediate vicinity.