17062, Millerstown, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17062, Millerstown, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.24 percent of residents in 17062 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center with a distance of 19.03 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Millerstown (ZIP Code 17062)

Considering a move to Millerstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17062), and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? This analysis provides a "COPD Score" assessment, evaluating transportation options and healthcare access, crucial factors for individuals with respiratory challenges. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view to aid your decision.

Millerstown, a charming borough nestled in Perry County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. Its rural setting, while offering scenic beauty, can influence healthcare accessibility. The COPD Score considers these factors, aiming to give you a realistic picture of navigating the healthcare landscape with COPD in Millerstown.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary road network for accessing healthcare from Millerstown centers around Pennsylvania Route 322, a vital artery connecting the borough to larger medical centers. The drive to UPMC Harrisburg, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves traveling east on Route 322, often experiencing moderate traffic congestion during peak hours.

Alternatively, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill is another option, reachable via Route 322 and the US-11/15 corridor. The drive to Camp Hill generally takes around 40 to 50 minutes, contingent on traffic conditions. The US-11/15 corridor, while offering quicker access, can also experience heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are available in nearby towns like Liverpool and Thompsontown. These facilities provide primary care and specialist services, potentially reducing travel times for routine appointments. However, the availability of specialized pulmonary care in these locations might be limited, necessitating longer journeys to larger hospitals for specialized treatment.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Millerstown are limited. The primary provider is the Capital Area Transit (CAT) system, which offers bus service in the Harrisburg area. However, CAT's direct service to Millerstown is non-existent. Individuals relying on public transit would need to utilize a combination of local services and potentially ride-sharing or taxi services for the final leg of their journey.

The closest CAT routes are located in nearby towns like Liverpool, which is still a significant distance from Millerstown. Accessing these routes requires personal transportation or potentially a ride-sharing service. CAT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, to accommodate passengers with mobility limitations. However, the infrequency of service and the distance from Millerstown pose significant challenges for individuals with COPD, making public transit a less-than-ideal option for regular healthcare appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Harrisburg area, offering a potential solution for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services in Millerstown can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing could lead to delays or cancellations, posing a challenge for individuals with COPD requiring timely medical attention.

Medical transport services provide a specialized option for individuals needing assistance with transportation. Companies like CareRide and First Transit offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and can be a more reliable option for scheduled appointments. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and availability may be limited, especially during peak demand.

**Healthcare Access Considerations**

Healthcare access in Millerstown requires careful consideration. While the borough offers primary care options, specialized pulmonary care is primarily available in larger hospitals like UPMC Harrisburg or Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center. This necessitates longer travel times, potentially increasing the risk of exacerbations for individuals with COPD.

The availability of oxygen and other respiratory equipment in Millerstown needs to be assessed. Local pharmacies and medical supply stores may offer these services, but it is essential to confirm their availability and accessibility. The proximity of urgent care facilities is also a critical factor. While Millerstown has limited urgent care options, the distance to the nearest facilities in neighboring towns should be considered.

**COPD Score Assessment**

The COPD Score for Millerstown (ZIP Code 17062) is moderate. While the borough offers a pleasant living environment, the limited transportation options and the distance to specialized healthcare facilities present significant challenges for individuals with COPD. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport is crucial for accessing healthcare. Public transit is not a viable option.

The score is affected by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate to long drive times to major hospitals for specialized care.
* **Public Transit:** Limited to no public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability is inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but the cost and availability require consideration.
* **Healthcare Availability:** Primary care options are available, but specialized pulmonary care requires travel.

**Recommendations for Individuals with COPD Considering Moving to Millerstown:**

* **Evaluate Transportation:** Prioritize reliable transportation options, including a personal vehicle or pre-booked medical transport services.
* **Assess Healthcare Needs:** Determine the frequency and type of healthcare appointments required and factor in travel times.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Research the availability of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists in the Harrisburg area.
* **Explore Home Healthcare:** Investigate the availability of home healthcare services, including respiratory therapy and oxygen supply, to reduce the need for frequent travel.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop an emergency plan that includes transportation to the nearest emergency room and access to oxygen and other necessary medications.
* **Consider Proximity:** Prioritize housing locations that offer convenient access to major roadways and healthcare facilities.

Moving to Millerstown can be a positive experience. However, for individuals with COPD, careful planning and proactive management of transportation and healthcare access are essential. This COPD Score assessment provides a framework for making informed decisions and ensuring a comfortable and healthy lifestyle in your new community.