16627, Coalport, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16627, Coalport, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.37 percent of residents in 16627 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.61 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Miners Medical Center with a distance of 11.43 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Coalport (ZIP Code 16627)

The picturesque, yet geographically isolated, community of Coalport, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 16627), presents unique challenges for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis, a “COPD Score” write-up, assesses the accessibility of healthcare services, specifically focusing on transportation options available to individuals living with COPD, a condition that often limits mobility and necessitates frequent medical appointments. Understanding these transportation limitations is crucial when considering **healthcare access** and the practicalities of **moving to Coalport**.

The primary consideration for Coalport residents is the drive to healthcare facilities. The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are situated in larger towns, demanding significant travel time. The most direct route to UPMC Altoona, a major regional hospital, involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 53 South, a winding two-lane road that can be challenging in inclement weather. The drive, typically taking around 45 minutes to an hour, can be arduous for individuals with breathing difficulties. The return trip, often after a tiring medical appointment, presents a similar hurdle.

Alternatively, residents can utilize Pennsylvania Route 36 North, which offers a slightly longer route to the same destination, but with fewer sharp turns. This option, though longer, might be preferable for some, depending on traffic and personal driving comfort. The journey necessitates careful planning, considering potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours or on weekends.

Beyond Altoona, residents might need to travel further afield for specialized care. The drive to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility, necessitates a journey of approximately two hours via Interstate 99 South and US Route 322 East. This extended travel time places a considerable burden on COPD patients, demanding careful scheduling and potentially requiring overnight stays.

Public transit options in Coalport are limited. The Clearfield County Area Transportation Authority (CCATA) provides some bus services, but routes are infrequent and often do not directly serve medical facilities. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a critical factor for COPD patients who may require assistance with mobility. While CCATA strives to provide accessible services, the sparse schedule and limited coverage area present a significant obstacle to reliable **transportation**.

The closest CCATA route to Coalport is Route 40, which connects to nearby towns. However, this route requires a transfer, potentially adding to the travel time and increasing the physical exertion required. Furthermore, the frequency of these buses is limited, making it difficult to schedule appointments and return home promptly. The lack of direct routes and the potential for multiple transfers significantly impact **healthcare access** for COPD patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Coalport is inconsistent. Availability often depends on driver availability and the time of day. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is risky, as delays or cancellations could disrupt critical care. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances, can also be a significant financial burden for individuals managing a chronic illness.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility challenges, offer a more reliable alternative. Companies like Senior Life Solutions and other regional providers offer specialized transportation with trained personnel and accessible vehicles. These services are essential for COPD patients who may require assistance getting in and out of vehicles or who need medical support during transport. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive, making them less accessible for some residents.

The availability of these medical transport services is a crucial factor in determining the COPD Score for Coalport. The ability to secure reliable transportation is vital for managing the disease effectively. The lack of readily available public transit and the inconsistent presence of ride-sharing services highlight the dependence on personal vehicles or specialized medical transport.

The geographic isolation of Coalport also affects access to pharmacies and durable medical equipment suppliers. Residents often must travel to larger towns to fill prescriptions or obtain necessary medical supplies, adding to the **transportation** burden. This necessitates careful planning and coordination, especially for individuals with limited mobility.

The overall COPD Score for Coalport, based on these factors, is moderate to low. While some options exist, the limitations in public **transportation**, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles or expensive medical transport create significant challenges for individuals with COPD. The drive times to healthcare facilities are substantial, and the lack of readily available, affordable, and accessible **transportation** options hinders **healthcare access**.

When considering **moving to Coalport**, individuals with COPD must carefully assess their ability to manage the **transportation** demands associated with their condition. They should research the availability and cost of medical transport services, evaluate the reliability of ride-sharing options, and factor in the travel time to healthcare facilities.

The lack of readily available support systems for COPD patients in Coalport necessitates proactive planning and a strong reliance on personal resources. The community could benefit from increased public **transportation** options, particularly those designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities. Increased awareness of available medical transport services and financial assistance programs would also improve **healthcare access** for residents. The COPD Score, therefore, serves as a vital indicator of the challenges faced by COPD patients in Coalport, highlighting the need for improved **transportation** infrastructure and accessible healthcare resources.