16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 16738, Lewis Run, Pennsylvania is 15 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.80 percent of residents in 16738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Upmc Kane with a distance of 15.09 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lewis Run (ZIP Code 16738)

The crisp air of Lewis Run, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 16738), a haven nestled in the Allegheny National Forest, beckons with promises of tranquility. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the allure of this serene locale must be tempered by a critical assessment: healthcare access. This write-up, a "COPD Score" analysis, delves into the intricate web of transportation options available for residents, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by the journey to medical care. Understanding these nuances is paramount, especially for those considering moving to Lewis Run, ensuring their healthcare needs are met efficiently and with minimal respiratory strain.

The primary concern for COPD patients is the potential for exacerbations – sudden worsening of symptoms. Prompt access to medical attention is therefore non-negotiable. This necessitates a deep dive into the transportation infrastructure. The primary arteries serving Lewis Run are **US Route 219** and **Pennsylvania Route 346**. US 219, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers a relatively direct route to larger towns like Bradford, where the nearest hospitals and specialized pulmonary care centers are located. PA 346, a more winding east-west road, connects Lewis Run to smaller communities and provides access to local physician offices.

Driving times, a crucial component of the COPD Score, vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. A trip to Bradford Regional Medical Center, the closest hospital, via US 219, typically takes around 15-20 minutes under normal circumstances. However, winter weather, common in this region, can significantly extend these times, potentially impacting a patient’s ability to receive timely care. The journey to a specialist in Olean, New York, approximately 30 minutes away via US 219, adds another layer of complexity, especially considering the potential for border crossing delays.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. The primary provider is the Bradford Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA), which offers fixed-route bus service. However, service frequency and coverage are restricted, particularly to the more remote areas like Lewis Run. While BARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and priority seating, the infrequent schedules and limited routes may pose significant challenges for COPD patients, especially those experiencing shortness of breath or mobility issues. The absence of a dedicated COPD-specific transportation service is a notable deficit in the healthcare access landscape.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bradford area, but their reliability and availability in Lewis Run are less certain. Demand can be unpredictable, and wait times may be extended, particularly during off-peak hours or inclement weather. This uncertainty presents a significant barrier for individuals requiring immediate medical attention or regular appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate, adding to the financial burden of managing a chronic illness.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with mobility limitations or medical conditions, offer a potential solution. Ambulance services are readily available for emergencies, ensuring rapid transport to the nearest hospital. However, for routine appointments or non-emergency situations, the options are more limited. Local ambulance companies may offer non-emergency transport services, but these services often require advance booking and may not be available on short notice. The availability and affordability of these services are crucial factors in the COPD Score assessment.

The geographical isolation of Lewis Run presents a unique set of challenges for healthcare access. The nearest pharmacies, specialty clinics, and support groups are located in Bradford or Olean, requiring patients to navigate the transportation landscape to obtain essential medications, attend follow-up appointments, and participate in pulmonary rehabilitation programs. These trips can be physically demanding, especially for individuals with COPD, and require careful planning and consideration of potential exacerbations.

The COPD Score for Lewis Run, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Bradford provides access to essential medical services, the limited transportation options and the potential for weather-related delays introduce significant vulnerabilities. The reliance on personal vehicles, the uncertain availability of ride-sharing services, and the limited public transportation options create barriers to healthcare access, potentially impacting the quality of life for COPD patients.

For individuals considering moving to Lewis Run, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. They should carefully evaluate the availability of reliable transportation, consider the potential for weather-related disruptions, and develop a contingency plan for emergencies. Proactive measures, such as establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, understanding the availability of medical transportation services, and exploring the possibility of telehealth options, can help mitigate the challenges of healthcare access in this rural setting.

The COPD Score underscores the importance of careful planning and preparedness for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. While Lewis Run offers the beauty of the Allegheny National Forest, its remoteness necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare access, ensuring that the pursuit of tranquility does not compromise the vital need for timely and efficient medical care. The interplay between transportation and healthcare access is a defining characteristic of this community, demanding a strategic approach to navigating the journey to wellness.