16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16224, Fairmount City, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.83 percent of residents in 16224 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 10.90 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in 16224

Fairmount City, Pennsylvania, nestled within the 16224 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The ability to swiftly and reliably access healthcare is paramount for individuals living with this respiratory ailment. This write-up delves into the transportation infrastructure, evaluating its impact on healthcare access and ultimately, the COPD Score for residents of this rural community. The score reflects the ease and efficiency of navigating the transportation network to reach essential medical services, a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Fairmount City.

The primary challenge in 16224 is its rural character. This translates to limited public transportation options and a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The main thoroughfare, **Pennsylvania Route 28**, serves as the arterial lifeline, connecting Fairmount City to larger population centers where specialized medical care is often concentrated. Driving times on Route 28 can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, weather, and the time of day. During peak hours, particularly commuting times, congestion can add considerable delays to journeys, impacting the timely arrival at medical appointments.

Accessing healthcare facilities in nearby towns, such as Clarion and Brookville, necessitates navigating a network of secondary roads. **State Route 66** and **State Route 36** offer alternative routes, but these roads are often narrower, winding, and subject to seasonal hazards like snow and ice. These conditions can exacerbate the challenges for individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath or other respiratory distress during stressful or physically demanding situations. The COPD Score must account for these potential barriers.

Public transit options are extremely limited in 16224. The absence of a robust public transportation system poses a significant hurdle for those without access to a personal vehicle or the ability to drive. The nearest public transit options might be available in Clarion, potentially involving bus routes. However, the frequency of these routes, their operating hours, and the potential need for transfers would need careful consideration. The presence of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. The COPD Score must heavily penalize the lack of accessible public transportation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Fairmount City is not guaranteed. The availability of these services can be sporadic, and wait times can be prolonged, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The COPD Score must reflect the potential unreliability and expense of ride-sharing options.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer an alternative. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the availability and cost of these services in 16224 require thorough investigation. The COPD Score must consider the accessibility, reliability, and affordability of medical transportation options.

The distance to hospitals and specialized medical facilities is a critical factor. The closest hospitals are likely located in Clarion or Brookville, requiring a drive of varying distances depending on the specific location within 16224. The time required to reach these facilities, accounting for traffic, road conditions, and the individual's physical limitations, directly impacts the COPD Score. The score must reflect the potential for delays and the potential for increased risk during a medical emergency.

For individuals considering moving to Fairmount City, the COPD Score serves as a crucial indicator of healthcare access. It is imperative to carefully assess the transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare services before making a decision. The score must reflect the challenges and potential barriers to accessing timely and appropriate medical care.

The COPD Score must also consider the availability of home healthcare services. For individuals with COPD, receiving care at home can significantly improve their quality of life and reduce the need for frequent trips to healthcare facilities. The presence of home healthcare providers and the services they offer are essential components of the overall healthcare access assessment. The score must incorporate the availability and quality of these services.

Furthermore, the COPD Score should consider the availability of pharmacies and medical supply stores within the 16224 ZIP code or in nearby communities. The ability to quickly and easily obtain medications and medical supplies is crucial for managing COPD. The score must reflect the convenience and accessibility of these essential resources.

The COPD Score for 16224 would therefore be a composite metric, considering drive times on Route 28 and secondary roads, the availability and accessibility of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation, the distance to hospitals and specialized medical facilities, the availability of home healthcare services, and the proximity of pharmacies and medical supply stores. A low score would indicate significant challenges in accessing healthcare, while a high score would reflect a more favorable environment. The COPD Score is a critical tool for individuals with COPD considering moving to Fairmount City, providing a realistic assessment of their ability to manage their health effectively within this rural community. The ultimate goal is to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and to ensure that they have the resources and support they need to live a healthy and fulfilling life.