16701, Bradford, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16701, Bradford, Pennsylvania is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.63 percent of residents in 16701 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 21.66 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bradford, PA (ZIP Code 16701)

The crisp air of Bradford, Pennsylvania, a city nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, holds a certain allure. For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), however, the practicalities of accessing healthcare become paramount. This "COPD Score" write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 16701, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by those seeking consistent medical care. It is a crucial factor for anyone moving to Bradford.

The very nature of COPD, a progressive lung disease, necessitates regular medical appointments. This includes pulmonary rehabilitation, medication management, and potential hospitalizations. The ability to reliably reach these services directly impacts a patient's quality of life and disease management. Therefore, understanding the ease of **transportation** becomes a critical component of evaluating the suitability of a location for individuals with COPD.

The primary artery for **transportation** in Bradford is U.S. Route 219, a north-south thoroughfare. This highway offers the most direct route to larger medical facilities outside of Bradford, such as UPMC Hamot in Erie, roughly 90 miles north. Driving time, under ideal conditions, is approximately two hours. However, Pennsylvania winters, with their snow and ice, can significantly extend travel times, potentially making routine appointments a logistical nightmare.

Within Bradford, the main roads, like Main Street and Interstate Parkway, connect the city's various neighborhoods and services. The Bradford Regional Medical Center (BRMC), the primary healthcare provider in the area, is centrally located. Accessing BRMC by car is generally straightforward, with drive times rarely exceeding 15 minutes for most residents. However, for those living in more remote areas, or those with mobility limitations, this short distance can still present challenges.

The secondary roads, like Interstate Parkway, are often less well-maintained and can be problematic for those with respiratory issues, especially during periods of high traffic or inclement weather. The condition of these roads is a factor in **healthcare access**.

Public **transportation** options in Bradford are limited. The Bradford Area Regional Transit Authority (BARTA) provides bus service within the city. However, the routes are infrequent, and the service area is restricted. The BARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating. The reliance on BARTA, though, presents a significant hurdle for individuals with COPD, who may require frequent appointments at the hospital or other healthcare facilities. The limited routes and schedules may make it difficult to coordinate timely and reliable **transportation**.

The lack of robust public **transportation** in Bradford necessitates reliance on alternative methods. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available, but their availability and affordability can fluctuate. The cost of frequent rides can quickly become a significant financial burden, and the availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. This adds another layer of complexity to **healthcare access**.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility challenges, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Several medical **transportation** companies operate in the region, but their services may be limited by availability and cost. The process of booking and coordinating these services can also be time-consuming and require advanced planning.

The **transportation** landscape in Bradford presents a mixed bag for individuals with COPD. While the presence of BRMC within the city offers convenient access to local healthcare, the limited public **transportation** options and the potential challenges posed by weather conditions on the surrounding highways create significant hurdles. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical **transportation** adds to the complexity and expense of accessing care.

Considering the distance to larger medical centers, such as UPMC Hamot in Erie, the reliance on personal vehicles, or the potential for weather-related delays, impacts **healthcare access**. The lack of frequent public **transportation** options and the fluctuating availability of ride-sharing services pose additional challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Bradford**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and capabilities is essential. Factors such as the severity of their COPD, their ability to drive, their financial resources, and their access to support networks should be carefully considered.

The availability of medical **transportation** services, the proximity to BRMC, and the potential for family or friend support are all critical factors to evaluate. Understanding the limitations of public **transportation** and the potential for weather-related disruptions is also crucial.

In conclusion, while Bradford offers a certain charm, the **transportation** landscape presents significant challenges for individuals with COPD. The COPD Score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 16701 is, therefore, cautiously optimistic. While local healthcare is accessible, the limited options for reliable and affordable **transportation** to and from the city, as well as to larger regional centers, must be carefully considered. The individual's ability to navigate these challenges will significantly impact their quality of life and their ability to effectively manage their COPD.