16136, Koppel, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16136, Koppel, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.49 percent of residents in 16136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Heritage Valley Beaver with a distance of 8.57 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Koppel, PA (ZIP Code 16136)

The air in Koppel, Pennsylvania, a borough nestled in Beaver County, can be a challenge for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up assesses the landscape of healthcare access, specifically for individuals with COPD, considering the critical element of transportation within and around ZIP code 16136. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, providing a comprehensive “COPD Score” for healthcare accessibility.

The primary concern for COPD patients is the ease and reliability of getting to necessary medical appointments. This includes doctor visits, pulmonary rehabilitation, and potential hospitalizations. The ability to breathe freely is paramount, and the stress of navigating transportation can exacerbate respiratory difficulties. Therefore, understanding the transportation infrastructure is crucial for individuals considering moving to Koppel or for current residents seeking to improve their healthcare access.

Koppel's location presents both advantages and disadvantages. The borough is relatively small, offering a sense of community, but its proximity to larger healthcare facilities is a significant factor. Residents primarily rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The major thoroughfare is **Pennsylvania Route 351**, which runs directly through Koppel, connecting it to surrounding towns. This road is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a concern, especially during peak hours.

Heading west on Route 351 will take you towards **New Galilee**, a short drive with limited healthcare options. Continuing west, one reaches **Beaver Falls**, approximately a 10-15 minute drive, where a larger concentration of medical facilities, including the Heritage Valley Beaver hospital, is located. This hospital offers a range of services, including pulmonology and respiratory therapy, crucial for COPD management.

Eastbound on Route 351 leads to **New Brighton**, another town with some medical facilities, though generally fewer options than Beaver Falls. The drive time is similar, around 10-15 minutes. Further east, the access to **Interstate 376**, a major highway, opens up possibilities. This interstate provides access to **Pittsburgh**, a larger metropolitan area with a vast array of specialized healthcare providers. However, this commute can be a significant undertaking, potentially taking 45 minutes to an hour or more, depending on traffic.

The secondary roads, such as **Koppel Road** and **1st Avenue**, offer alternative routes within the borough and to nearby towns. However, these roads may be less well-maintained and could pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues or those driving in inclement weather. The overall driving experience in Koppel is manageable, but the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of reliable transportation.

Public transit options in Koppel are limited. The **Beaver County Transit Authority (BCTA)** provides bus services in the area. However, the frequency of service and the routes available are limited, and may not directly serve all medical facilities. Information regarding specific routes, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features should be obtained directly from the BCTA. The BCTA website or phone number will provide the most accurate information. The availability of wheelchair lifts and other accommodations is crucial for COPD patients with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. However, their reliability and cost can vary. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. Patients should factor in potential wait times and surge pricing when considering ride-sharing for medical appointments. Booking in advance is highly recommended.

Medical transportation services are also available. Companies like **MedTrans** and **CareRide** specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and may be equipped to handle patients with mobility issues or oxygen requirements. Researching and pre-arranging such services is essential for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options. Costs can vary, so comparing prices and services is advisable.

The COPD Score for Koppel, PA (16136) is moderate. The area’s location provides reasonable access to healthcare facilities in Beaver Falls and New Brighton via personal vehicle. The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor. The limited public transit options and the variability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. While medical transportation services are available, they add to the overall cost of healthcare.

The need for reliable transportation is paramount for COPD patients. The stress of getting to appointments can exacerbate respiratory symptoms. The ease of healthcare access directly impacts quality of life. The score would improve with increased public transit frequency, more readily available ride-sharing options, and expanded medical transportation services.

Moving to Koppel, or any location, requires careful consideration of healthcare access. For COPD patients, this means evaluating the transportation infrastructure and the availability of medical services. While Koppel offers a sense of community, the transportation limitations necessitate proactive planning and the utilization of all available resources to ensure timely and reliable access to healthcare. The COPD Score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation needs.