17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17009, Burnham, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.48 percent of residents in 17009 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Lewistown Hospital with a distance of 1.13 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burnham, PA (ZIP Code 17009)

The crisp air of Burnham, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17009), nestled in the Juniata River Valley, offers a certain tranquility. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity of this locale must be weighed against the practicalities of healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, assigning a "COPD Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical services, particularly for those considering moving to Burnham or currently residing there. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The primary concern for COPD patients is the timely and reliable delivery of healthcare. COPD, a progressive lung disease, often necessitates frequent medical appointments, including pulmonary rehabilitation, specialist consultations, and emergency room visits. The ability to navigate the transportation network efficiently directly impacts the quality of life and health outcomes for individuals managing this condition.

**Drive Time Dynamics: A Roadway Assessment**

Burnham's location, while picturesque, presents challenges concerning transportation. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are US Route 322 and US Route 522. These roadways, while offering direct routes, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying critical medical appointments. The drive to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, the closest major healthcare facility, typically takes around 10-15 minutes via US-322 East.

However, weather conditions, especially during winter months, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice can make travel hazardous, extending commute times and increasing the risk of accidents. The route to the hospital, while relatively short, requires careful navigation, particularly for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Specialist appointments often necessitate travel to larger medical centers in surrounding cities. A trip to Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility, involves a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via US-322 East and US-322 East/I-81 South. This longer journey demands careful planning, accounting for potential delays and the patient's physical limitations.

Furthermore, the lack of readily available alternative routes adds to the challenge. Should an accident or road closure occur on US-322, detours are limited, potentially isolating residents and hindering access to essential healthcare services.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

The public transit infrastructure in Burnham is a significant factor in the COPD Score. The Mifflin County Regional Planning Commission operates the local bus service, offering limited routes and schedules. Public transportation options are crucial for those unable to drive, particularly elderly individuals or those with mobility limitations.

Unfortunately, the public transit system in Burnham, and Mifflin County in general, presents significant limitations. The service operates on a demand-response basis, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This can be challenging for urgent medical needs or unexpected appointments.

The buses may not always offer the most convenient routes to healthcare facilities. Transfers may be required, adding to the travel time and physical exertion. ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. While the local bus service strives to provide accessible vehicles, the frequency and availability of these vehicles can be a concern.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative transportation solution. However, their availability in Burnham is limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance for patients with mobility issues. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. Several medical transport brands operate in the region, including MedExpress and First Transit.

While medical transport offers a valuable service, it often comes at a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing. Furthermore, scheduling these services requires advance planning, which may not always be feasible in emergency situations.

**The COPD Score: A Composite Assessment**

Considering all the factors, the COPD Score for Burnham, PA (ZIP Code 17009) presents a mixed picture. The relatively short drive time to Geisinger Lewistown Hospital offers a positive aspect. However, the limited public transit options, potential for traffic delays, and the reliance on personal vehicles for specialist appointments contribute to a lower score.

The absence of readily available alternative routes and the limited availability of ride-share services further diminish the score. While medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline, their cost and the need for advance scheduling introduce limitations.

Therefore, considering the various factors, the COPD Score for Burnham, PA, is moderate. While healthcare access is not entirely prohibitive, individuals with COPD should carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly. Those considering moving to Burnham must factor in the potential challenges of accessing healthcare, particularly if they rely on public transit or have limited mobility.

**Recommendations for Improving the COPD Score**

To enhance the COPD Score and improve healthcare access for residents, several improvements are crucial. Expanding the public transit network, increasing the frequency of service, and ensuring ADA accessibility would significantly benefit individuals with COPD.

Advocating for improved road infrastructure, including the creation of alternative routes, would mitigate the impact of traffic delays and road closures. Encouraging the expansion of ride-share services and exploring partnerships with medical transport providers would offer additional transportation options.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and home healthcare visits would reduce the need for frequent travel to healthcare facilities. Community outreach programs to educate residents about available transportation resources and healthcare options would also be beneficial.

In conclusion, while Burnham offers a tranquil setting, the transportation landscape presents challenges for individuals managing COPD. Careful planning, utilizing available resources, and advocating for improvements in public transit and infrastructure are essential to ensuring accessible and timely healthcare for all residents. The COPD Score, while moderate, can be improved through proactive measures and community collaboration.