16230, Hawthorn, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16230, Hawthorn, Pennsylvania is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.41 percent of residents in 16230 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Clarion Psychiatric Center with a distance of 13.34 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16230 (Hawthorn, Pennsylvania)**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This assessment focuses on ZIP code 16230, encompassing Hawthorn, Pennsylvania, and analyzes the available pathways to healthcare facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "COPD Score," reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical care within this specific geographical area. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Hawthorn, as it directly impacts their quality of life and ability to manage their COPD.

The primary determinant of the COPD Score within 16230 is the accessibility of healthcare facilities, primarily clinics and hospitals, for those with limited mobility and respiratory distress. Driving, the most common mode of transportation, hinges on the efficiency of the road network. The major artery serving Hawthorn is Pennsylvania Route 28, a vital route connecting the area to larger population centers like Kittanning and New Bethlehem. Traveling south on Route 28 offers access to Armstrong County Memorial Hospital in Kittanning, approximately a 25-30 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. This hospital provides comprehensive medical services, including specialized respiratory care and pulmonary rehabilitation programs crucial for COPD management.

Alternatively, heading north on Route 28 provides access to Clarion Hospital in Clarion, roughly a 20-25 minute drive. Clarion Hospital also offers respiratory therapy and pulmonary services, making it another viable healthcare destination. Minor roads, such as Lawsonham Road and Five Points Road, provide alternative routes, though these are often less direct and may involve navigating winding rural roads, which can be challenging for individuals with breathing difficulties. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and accessibility.

Public transportation options in 16230 are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals with COPD. The Armstrong County Transportation Authority (ACTA) provides some bus services within the county, but the frequency and routes serving Hawthorn are sparse. ACTA does offer demand-response services, requiring advance booking, which can be a lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize other forms of transport. However, the reliability and availability of these services are crucial factors in the COPD Score. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of ACTA buses, including features like wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, is essential for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in some parts of Armstrong County, though their presence in Hawthorn is less consistent. Availability often depends on driver density and demand, potentially leading to longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability can be problematic for individuals with COPD who require timely access to medical appointments or emergency care. The cost of ride-sharing, particularly for frequent trips, can also be a financial burden.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) can provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and oxygen. However, the availability of these services in 16230 and the associated costs are essential considerations. The COPD Score must reflect the presence and affordability of these specialized transport options.

The COPD Score also needs to account for the distance to pharmacies and other essential healthcare-related services. Access to medications, oxygen, and other respiratory aids is critical for managing COPD. The availability of local pharmacies or the distance to the nearest pharmacy, along with the ease of prescription refills and delivery options, plays a role in the overall healthcare access assessment.

The weather in Hawthorn, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact transportation. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, and public transportation may be delayed or canceled. This underscores the importance of considering the reliability of transportation options during adverse weather conditions. The COPD Score needs to acknowledge the potential for weather-related disruptions to healthcare access.

The overall COPD Score for 16230 reflects a complex interplay of factors. The relatively short drive times to hospitals in Kittanning and Clarion are positive aspects. However, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the need for specialized medical transport services, which may have limited availability, create challenges. The score must also account for the availability and affordability of medical transport services.

For individuals considering moving to Hawthorn, the COPD Score provides a valuable framework for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare. It highlights the importance of having a reliable personal vehicle or access to a caregiver who can provide transportation. It also underscores the need to investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Those with COPD should factor in the potential for weather-related disruptions and plan accordingly.

The COPD Score for 16230, therefore, is a mixed bag. While the proximity to hospitals is a positive, the limitations in public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration for individuals managing COPD. The score emphasizes the need for proactive measures to ensure reliable access to healthcare, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and exploring all available transportation options. The score, ultimately, is a tool to inform decision-making and promote a better quality of life for those living with COPD in Hawthorn.