17034, Highspire, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17034, Highspire, Pennsylvania is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.12 percent of residents in 17034 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Milton S Hershey Medical Center with a distance of 7.00 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Highspire (ZIP Code 17034)

Considering a move to Highspire, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17034), and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This analysis assesses the ease of transportation to healthcare facilities, crucial for individuals with respiratory conditions. We delve into drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, providing a COPD Score to gauge the accessibility of healthcare in this charming borough. This information is vital for those prioritizing healthcare access when choosing a new home.

Highspire, nestled in Dauphin County, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger urban centers. However, the efficiency of your commute to healthcare appointments, especially with COPD, depends on the transportation options available. This write-up will serve as your guide to understanding the landscape of transportation and healthcare access in and around Highspire.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many, and the efficiency of this option significantly impacts healthcare access. Several major roadways serve Highspire, influencing drive times to various healthcare providers.

Interstate 283, a crucial artery, provides swift access to Harrisburg, the state capital, where many specialized medical services are located. A short drive north on I-283 leads to the Harrisburg Hospital, a major healthcare provider. Expect a drive time of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

The Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76) offers another route, though with tolls, to reach Harrisburg and other regional healthcare facilities. This option may be faster during peak hours, bypassing local traffic congestion.

Local roads like South Harrisburg Street and Highspire Road provide access to nearby medical offices and pharmacies. These routes are generally less congested but may involve stop-and-go traffic during rush hour.

The drive to Hershey Medical Center, a renowned facility with specialized pulmonary care, is approximately 30-40 minutes via I-283 and US-322. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning, especially for regular appointments.

The COPD Score considers these drive times, factoring in potential traffic delays and the need for pre-planning to minimize stress and exertion for individuals with respiratory limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in Highspire is limited, presenting a significant challenge for those relying on this mode. The Capital Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service in the Harrisburg area, but service to and within Highspire is infrequent.

CAT Route 42 operates along Route 283, offering a potential connection to Harrisburg. However, this route may not directly serve all healthcare facilities. The frequency of buses on this route is limited, potentially requiring significant wait times.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. CAT buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall efficiency of the route need careful evaluation.

The COPD Score acknowledges the limitations of public transit in Highspire, emphasizing the importance of understanding route schedules, accessibility features, and potential wait times. This is especially relevant for individuals with COPD, who may find prolonged exposure to the elements or physical exertion challenging.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Harrisburg area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services in Highspire may vary, and surge pricing during peak hours could impact the cost of transportation.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, provide a specialized option. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and Logisticare offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require prior scheduling and may have specific eligibility requirements.

The COPD Score evaluates the reliability, cost, and accessibility of these alternative transportation options. It considers the need for pre-planning, the potential for delays, and the comfort level of the vehicles.

**Healthcare Access and the COPD Score:**

The COPD Score is a composite measure reflecting the ease of accessing healthcare facilities from Highspire. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services.

The score is designed to inform individuals with COPD about the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access in the area. A higher score indicates greater accessibility, while a lower score suggests potential difficulties.

The score is not a definitive judgment, but rather a tool for informed decision-making. Individuals should consider their specific needs, preferences, and mobility limitations when interpreting the score.

**Moving to Highspire: Considerations for COPD Patients:**

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Highspire, careful planning is essential. Before making a decision, it is crucial to research the location of healthcare providers, assess the availability of transportation options, and evaluate the suitability of the environment.

The COPD Score provides a starting point for this evaluation, highlighting the importance of transportation planning and healthcare access. It is recommended to visit the area, explore transportation options, and consult with healthcare providers to determine the best course of action.

Living with COPD requires proactive management, including regular medical appointments, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments. Choosing a location with convenient healthcare access is a crucial step in maintaining quality of life.

The proximity to Harrisburg and Hershey offers access to a wide range of medical specialists and services. However, the reliance on driving or potentially infrequent public transit necessitates careful planning.

**Conclusion:**

The COPD Score for Highspire (ZIP Code 17034) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major roadways provides access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on driving or ride-sharing services pose challenges.

Individuals with COPD considering a move to Highspire should carefully evaluate their transportation needs, research healthcare providers, and plan for potential delays. The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool in this decision-making process, empowering individuals to make informed choices that prioritize their health and well-being.