17002, Allensville, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17002, Allensville, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.46 percent of residents in 17002 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 14.43 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Allensville (ZIP Code 17002)

Allensville, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17002), nestled within the rolling hills of Mifflin County, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This score evaluates the accessibility of healthcare services, specifically focusing on transportation options, a critical factor influencing the quality of life for those living with COPD. The ability to readily access medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and necessary medications directly impacts disease management and overall well-being. This analysis considers the various modes of transportation available, their feasibility, and the potential difficulties faced by residents with COPD.

The primary concern for residents of Allensville is the limited availability of public transportation. The Mifflin County Transit Authority (MCTA) operates within the county, but its services are infrequent and primarily focused on serving the larger towns of Lewistown and Burnham. This presents a significant hurdle for individuals residing in the more rural areas like Allensville. The MCTA does offer a demand-response service, requiring advance booking, which may not always be suitable for urgent medical needs. Moreover, the routes themselves may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities, necessitating multiple transfers and increasing travel time and physical exertion, a major concern for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Allensville. The major roadways serving the area include Route 655, which connects Allensville to Lewistown, and Route 322, a vital artery providing access to larger medical centers in State College and Harrisburg. Drive times to Lewistown, the closest town with significant healthcare facilities, are generally manageable, ranging from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. However, the drive to State College, home to Mount Nittany Medical Center, can take approximately an hour, while a trip to Harrisburg, with its comprehensive medical infrastructure, can extend to nearly two hours.

The condition of the roads is another factor to consider. While Route 655 is generally well-maintained, some secondary roads within Allensville may be less so, potentially exacerbating discomfort for individuals with COPD. Weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety, making it even more challenging to reach medical appointments. The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is also crucial. While Lewistown facilities typically offer ample parking, larger hospitals in State College and Harrisburg can experience periods of congestion, adding to the stress of a medical visit.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Allensville are limited. The rural nature of the area and the relatively low population density can make it difficult to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for individuals with fixed incomes or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The uncertainty of securing a ride adds to the anxiety of managing a chronic illness like COPD.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several providers operate in the region, including ambulance services for emergency situations and non-emergency medical transport companies that provide door-to-door service. These services typically require advance booking and may involve higher costs compared to other transportation options. However, they offer the advantage of trained personnel, specialized vehicles, and assistance with mobility, making them a valuable resource for individuals with COPD who have difficulty navigating other modes of transportation.

Healthcare access is paramount for individuals with COPD. The availability of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, crucial for managing the disease, is a key consideration. The nearest pulmonary rehabilitation programs are located in Lewistown and State College. The travel time and transportation challenges associated with accessing these programs can significantly impact patient adherence and outcomes. The lack of local support groups and educational resources specifically tailored to COPD further compounds the challenges faced by residents of Allensville.

Moving to Allensville presents a unique set of considerations for individuals with COPD. While the area offers a peaceful and rural setting, the limited transportation options and the distance to specialized healthcare services require careful planning. Individuals considering a move to Allensville should thoroughly assess their transportation needs, explore the availability of medical transportation services, and factor in the potential challenges of accessing healthcare facilities. Proactive planning and a clear understanding of the transportation landscape are essential for maintaining a good quality of life.

The COPD score for Allensville reflects the interplay of these factors. The limited public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing services contribute to a lower score. The distance to specialized healthcare facilities, coupled with the potential for weather-related disruptions, further impacts the accessibility of care. However, the availability of medical transportation services and the generally manageable drive times to Lewistown offer some mitigating factors. The overall score highlights the need for individuals with COPD to carefully consider their transportation needs and to proactively plan for their healthcare requirements when residing in or considering a move to Allensville.