16154, Transfer, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16154, Transfer, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.03 percent of residents in 16154 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Horizon with a distance of 6.48 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Transfer, PA (ZIP Code 16154)

The air hangs heavy in the lungs, a constant reminder of the insidious grip of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). For residents of Transfer, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16154), the battle against this debilitating illness extends beyond the confines of their homes and into the complex realm of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This analysis, a "COPD Score" write-up, explores the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals with COPD seeking timely and reliable medical care in this rural community. The ability to get to appointments, pick up medications, and access specialized treatments is paramount, and this report will detail the available options and their limitations.

Transfer, nestled in Mercer County, presents a unique set of circumstances. Its geographical isolation, combined with the limitations of public **transportation**, creates a challenging landscape for those managing COPD. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in Sharon, PA, and Youngstown, OH, both requiring a degree of planning and resilience to reach. The COPD Score considers various factors, including drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are crucial. To Sharon, PA, via US-62 and PA-718, the drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. However, weather, particularly snow and ice during the winter months, can significantly extend this time, posing a severe risk to individuals with respiratory difficulties. The route is generally well-maintained, but the rural nature of the roads means limited emergency services and potential delays in the event of a breakdown.

For access to Youngstown, OH, a drive of approximately 30-40 minutes is required, primarily utilizing I-80 and OH-7. This route offers faster travel times, but the interstate can be subject to heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. The increased distance also means higher fuel costs, a significant consideration for individuals on fixed incomes or facing financial constraints due to their illness.

Public **transportation** options in Transfer are extremely limited. The Mercer County Regional Planning Commission (MCRPC) provides some demand-response services, but these are primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services, while potentially offering door-to-door assistance, require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, making them unsuitable for urgent medical needs or appointments scheduled outside of typical business hours. Information regarding ADA accessibility is crucial, and further investigation would be needed to ascertain the specifics of each route.

The MCRPC’s services are not a viable solution for all residents. The lack of frequent service, coupled with the need for advance booking, severely restricts access to healthcare. Individuals with COPD often require regular and sometimes unpredictable medical attention, making the reliance on such services a significant challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability can be inconsistent. Availability is often dependent on driver presence and demand, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these options financially prohibitive. Furthermore, the relatively low population density in Transfer may result in longer wait times for a ride, potentially exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals with breathing difficulties.

Medical **transportation** companies offer specialized services for individuals with medical needs. These companies typically provide vehicles equipped with medical equipment and trained personnel to assist patients during transport. While these services can be a lifeline for those unable to drive or use public **transportation**, they often come at a significant cost. The expense of medical **transportation** can be a major barrier to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. Determining which brands service Transfer is essential to the COPD Score.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Transfer, PA, is a complex tapestry woven with threads of distance, limited **transportation** options, and financial constraints. The reliance on personal vehicles, the scarcity of public **transportation**, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for individuals with COPD. The cost of medical **transportation**, while offering a crucial service, can be a significant burden.

For someone **moving to Transfer**, the COPD Score is a critical tool. It highlights the need for careful planning and consideration regarding **healthcare access**. Understanding the limitations of available **transportation** options and the potential financial implications of seeking medical care is essential.

The COPD Score for Transfer, PA, is not a simple numerical value but a multifaceted assessment of the challenges and opportunities. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, including establishing reliable **transportation** arrangements, exploring financial assistance programs, and advocating for improved **healthcare access** in the community. The score reflects the realities of living with COPD in a rural environment, where the journey to wellness often requires navigating a complex web of logistical and financial hurdles.