16673, Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16673, Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.74 percent of residents in 16673 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Conemaugh Nason Medical Center with a distance of 1.24 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 16673 (Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania)

The journey to healthcare, especially for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), is a critical factor influencing quality of life. This analysis provides a "COPD Score" for residents of ZIP Code 16673, focusing on transportation options and healthcare access. This score will assist individuals considering moving to Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania, in understanding the practical challenges and opportunities related to accessing medical care.

Roaring Spring, nestled in the heart of Blair County, offers a tranquil environment. However, its rural setting presents unique transportation challenges. The "COPD Score" considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services, all crucial elements for individuals with COPD who require regular medical appointments and potential emergency care.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary thoroughfare serving Roaring Spring is **Pennsylvania Route 36**, a vital artery connecting the community to larger towns and healthcare facilities. Driving times are significantly impacted by traffic and weather conditions, particularly during winter months. A trip to UPMC Altoona, the closest major hospital, typically takes around 30 minutes via Route 36 and **Interstate 99**. This drive can be extended by traffic congestion.

For residents seeking specialized care, the drive to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, approximately 100 miles away, requires a journey of around two hours via Interstate 99 and **US Route 322**. This extended travel time can be a significant burden for individuals with COPD, especially during exacerbations. The condition necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

Accessing smaller clinics and specialist offices within Blair County involves navigating local roads like **Spring Street**, **Main Street**, and **New Street**. These routes can be narrow and winding, adding to the difficulty of travel, especially for those with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Roaring Spring are limited. The Blair County Transit Authority (BCTA) provides some bus service, but its routes and frequency are restricted, particularly in rural areas. While the BCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, the routes serving Roaring Spring may have limited schedules and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

For individuals with COPD, the availability of accessible and reliable public transit is crucial. The limited service in Roaring Spring could pose a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those unable to drive or who lack access to a personal vehicle. Understanding the BCTA route numbers and schedules is essential for those relying on public transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Altoona area but may have limited presence in Roaring Spring itself. Availability and response times can vary, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could be unreliable.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by ambulance companies and specialized medical transport providers, are available. These services are specifically designed to transport individuals with medical needs. However, they are often more expensive than other transportation options and may require prior arrangements.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for COPD Patients**

The "COPD Score" reflects the ease of accessing healthcare, considering the challenges of transportation in Roaring Spring. The score considers factors such as drive times to healthcare facilities, availability of public transit, and the reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

For individuals with COPD, the ability to quickly and easily access medical care is paramount. Regular appointments with pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals are essential for managing the condition and preventing exacerbations. The lack of convenient transportation options can make it difficult to adhere to treatment plans and can negatively impact overall health.

**Moving to Roaring Spring: A Transportation Perspective**

Individuals considering moving to Roaring Spring, particularly those with COPD, should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the available options. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited access to healthcare facilities and the challenges of transportation could pose significant challenges.

Prioritizing proximity to healthcare facilities, ensuring access to reliable transportation, and considering the availability of support services are crucial steps in making an informed decision. Thoroughly researching the BCTA routes, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport options is essential.

**The "COPD Score" Summary**

The "COPD Score" for ZIP Code 16673 reflects the following:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to UPMC Altoona (30 minutes) and longer drive times to specialized facilities (2+ hours).
* **Public Transit:** Limited public transit options with potential accessibility challenges.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Limited availability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** Availability of medical transport services but at a higher cost.

**Recommendations**

Individuals with COPD considering a move to Roaring Spring should:

* Assess their ability to drive or access a reliable personal vehicle.
* Research the BCTA routes and schedules to determine their suitability.
* Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* Identify and contact medical transportation providers in advance.
* Consider the proximity to healthcare facilities when choosing a residence.
* Consult with their healthcare providers to develop a transportation plan.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals with COPD can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure they receive the care they need while living in Roaring Spring. This "COPD Score" is a starting point for a more in-depth assessment of the transportation and healthcare landscape in the area.