16259, Templeton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16259, Templeton, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.62 percent of residents in 16259 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Acmh Hospital with a distance of 8.70 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Templeton (ZIP Code 16259)

Templeton, Pennsylvania, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Armstrong County, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Assessing the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Templeton**, particularly those with respiratory challenges. This "COPD Score" write-up delves into the realities of navigating the healthcare system within and around ZIP code 16259, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in Templeton is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area's rural nature and limited public transit infrastructure necessitate driving for most medical appointments. Residents typically utilize Pennsylvania Route 28 (PA-28), a major artery connecting Templeton to larger towns and cities, including Kittanning to the north and Pittsburgh to the south. The drive to Kittanning, the closest town with a hospital (Armstrong County Memorial Hospital), is generally a straightforward 15-20 minute journey via PA-28.

However, relying solely on PA-28 can present challenges. During peak hours, traffic congestion, though not severe, can add to drive times, potentially exacerbating breathing difficulties for COPD patients. Furthermore, inclement weather, particularly snow and ice during the winter months, can significantly impact travel times and road conditions, making it imperative to plan for delays and ensure vehicles are properly equipped. Secondary roads, such as Templeton Road and Lawsonham Road, offer alternative routes but are often narrower and less well-maintained, making them less desirable options for individuals with respiratory issues.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. The drive to Pittsburgh, approximately 60-75 miles south via PA-28 and the Allegheny Valley Expressway (PA-28), can take upwards of an hour and a half, depending on traffic conditions. This journey presents a significant time commitment, potentially straining individuals with COPD who may require frequent rest stops. The drive to UPMC Presbyterian Hospital or UPMC Shadyside Hospital in Pittsburgh, renowned for their pulmonary care, requires careful planning and consideration of potential traffic delays.

Public transit options in Templeton are extremely limited. The Armstrong County Transit Authority (ACTA) provides some bus service within the county, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and service to Templeton is minimal. ACTA does offer demand-response services, which require advance booking and are designed to provide transportation for individuals with disabilities, including those who qualify for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) paratransit services. However, these services are often limited in availability and may require significant advance notice, making them less than ideal for urgent medical needs.

The ACTA buses, though offering some accessibility features like ramps and wheelchair lifts, may not be a practical option for many COPD patients due to the extended travel times and the potential for exposure to environmental irritants. The lack of readily available public transportation highlights the critical importance of personal vehicle ownership or reliance on alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area but may have limited availability in Templeton and surrounding areas. The availability of these services can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand, making them an unreliable option for scheduled medical appointments. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like LifeFleet or MedExpress may provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing or public transit. However, they provide a crucial service for individuals unable to drive or utilize other transportation options.

When considering **moving to Templeton** with COPD, a thorough assessment of **healthcare access** is essential. The availability of **transportation** options significantly impacts the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. The limited public transit, the potential for long drive times, and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning and consideration.

Individuals with COPD should prioritize proximity to healthcare facilities when choosing a residence. Living closer to Kittanning, or within easy access of PA-28, can significantly reduce drive times and improve healthcare access. Exploring the availability of medical transportation services and establishing relationships with local healthcare providers is crucial.

Furthermore, individuals should consider the potential impact of weather conditions on travel times and road safety. Ensuring vehicles are properly equipped for winter driving and having contingency plans for inclement weather is essential.

The "COPD Score" for Templeton, based on the available information, indicates a moderate level of accessibility. While the proximity to Kittanning offers relatively easy access to basic medical care, the limitations in public transit and the potential for long drives to specialized care in Pittsburgh pose significant challenges. Careful planning, proactive measures, and a reliance on personal vehicles or specialized medical transportation are crucial for individuals with COPD residing in or considering **moving to Templeton**. The absence of readily available public transit and the potential for long travel times necessitate a proactive approach to healthcare planning.