16213, Callensburg, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16213, Callensburg, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.27 percent of residents in 16213 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 9.28 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Callensburg (ZIP Code 16213)**

The air in Callensburg, Pennsylvania, a small borough nestled in Clarion County, can be a challenge for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up provides a detailed COPD Score assessment, focusing on healthcare access within ZIP Code 16213. We will explore the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing services, to gauge the ease with which residents can reach vital medical care. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Callensburg, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The primary concern for COPD patients is consistent access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The ability to reach these resources quickly and reliably directly impacts quality of life and disease management. Our assessment considers the practical realities of transportation in this rural setting, where options are limited compared to metropolitan areas.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The most common mode of transportation in Callensburg is personal vehicles. The distances to healthcare facilities are a significant factor. Clarion Hospital, the closest major medical center, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **PA-68** and **Main Street**. This relatively short drive time is a positive aspect of healthcare access in this area. However, the drive can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during winter months, when snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks.

Specialist care, such as pulmonology, may necessitate travel to larger regional centers. UPMC Northwest in Seneca, Pennsylvania, is roughly a 40-minute drive. The route typically involves **PA-68** to **US-322**. This longer drive demands careful planning, especially for patients with breathing difficulties. The availability of convenient parking at these facilities is also a crucial consideration.

For specialized pulmonary rehabilitation programs, residents might need to travel further. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) facilities in Pittsburgh, while offering comprehensive care, are approximately a 2-hour drive via **I-80 West** and **I-376 West**. This lengthy commute is a significant barrier, potentially requiring overnight stays and impacting adherence to treatment plans. This is a critical factor for individuals contemplating moving to Callensburg.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation options in Clarion County are limited. The Clarion County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but their routes and schedules are geared towards general needs and may not be ideal for frequent medical appointments. The CCTA does offer demand-response services, which require advance booking and may not always be available at the precise time needed. These services may have limited accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments.

The CCTA does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, which is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility challenges. However, the infrequent service and potential for lengthy travel times can make public transit a less attractive option for COPD patients. The lack of direct routes to specialist care facilities is another significant drawback.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergencies. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers may offer transportation to medical appointments, but their availability and coverage area should be carefully investigated. These services often require pre-booking and may have limitations on the types of appointments they cover.

**Accessibility Considerations:**

The physical accessibility of healthcare facilities is another crucial factor. Buildings should have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Parking lots should have designated spaces for individuals with disabilities. The availability of oxygen and other respiratory equipment at the facilities is also essential.

**Healthcare Access and the COPD Score:**

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 16213 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Clarion Hospital provides relatively quick access to emergency and general medical care, the limited public transit options and the potential for lengthy drives to specialist care facilities pose significant challenges. The reliability of ride-sharing services and the availability of NEMT are also concerns.

The score considers the impact of transportation limitations on the ability of COPD patients to manage their condition effectively. Frequent medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to respiratory therapists are essential components of COPD care. The challenges in accessing these resources can negatively impact quality of life and disease progression.

**Recommendations for COPD Patients:**

Individuals with COPD considering a move to Callensburg should carefully evaluate their transportation needs. Owning a reliable vehicle is highly recommended. Researching and pre-booking NEMT services is essential for those who cannot drive. Understanding the CCTA routes and schedules is also advisable.

It is crucial to establish a strong relationship with a primary care physician and pulmonologist to coordinate care and manage the challenges of accessing healthcare. Planning ahead for appointments and considering the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times is also vital.

**Conclusion:**

The COPD Score for Callensburg, ZIP Code 16213, highlights the importance of careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. While the area offers some advantages, such as the relatively short drive to Clarion Hospital, the limitations of public transit and the potential for lengthy commutes to specialist care facilities require careful consideration. For those contemplating moving to Callensburg, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and a proactive approach to healthcare access are essential for successful COPD management.