17267, Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17267, Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

30.89 percent of residents in 17267 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Medical Center with a distance of 15.96 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Warfordsburg, PA (ZIP Code 17267)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), reliable and efficient **transportation** to **healthcare** appointments is paramount. This write-up assesses the accessibility of pulmonary care for residents of Warfordsburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17267), providing a COPD Score based on available **transportation** options, travel times, and the overall ease of **healthcare access**. Considering a move to this rural community? Understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining consistent medical care.

Warfordsburg, nestled in the heart of Fulton County, presents unique challenges to **healthcare access**. Its rural location, coupled with limited public **transportation**, demands careful consideration for those requiring regular medical attention. The nearest hospitals and specialized pulmonary care centers are located outside the immediate vicinity, significantly impacting travel times and available options.

The primary artery serving Warfordsburg is Pennsylvania Route 70, a crucial conduit connecting the community to larger towns and cities. This two-lane highway, while scenic, can experience traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather. Pennsylvania Route 522, another vital road, provides access to the north and south, but its winding nature and limited shoulders can make driving challenging, especially for those with respiratory difficulties.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and pulmonary specialists are a critical component of the COPD Score. The Fulton County Medical Center in McConnellsburg, approximately 15 miles away, represents the closest facility. Driving time, assuming moderate traffic conditions, averages around 25-35 minutes via PA-70. This drive, while manageable, requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

For more specialized pulmonary care, residents often travel to Chambersburg Hospital in Franklin County, roughly 40 miles east. The journey, primarily via PA-70 and Interstate 81, can take approximately 50-70 minutes, depending on traffic. This longer commute necessitates a significant time commitment and underscores the importance of reliable **transportation**.

Interstate 81, a major north-south thoroughfare, offers a faster route to more extensive **healthcare** facilities in Harrisburg or Hagerstown. However, the distance, exceeding 70 miles, translates into a drive time of over an hour, making it a less practical option for routine appointments.

Public **transportation** options in Warfordsburg are severely limited. Fulton County does not have a dedicated public bus system. The absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access**, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. This deficiency contributes negatively to the COPD Score.

While fixed-route public transit is absent, the county offers a demand-response system through the Fulton County Transit Authority (FCTA). This service provides door-to-door rides for medical appointments, shopping, and other essential needs. However, availability is limited, and scheduling requires advance notice. FCTA vehicles are equipped with ADA features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region but may have limited presence in Warfordsburg. Availability is often dependent on driver availability and can fluctuate. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is generally not recommended due to potential unreliability and higher costs compared to other options.

Medical **transportation** services specifically designed for patients needing assistance are available, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients with mobility challenges. However, these services can be costly, and availability may be limited, especially during peak hours.

Several NEMT companies serve the area, including Medical **Transportation** Management (MTM) and LogistiCare. These companies often contract with insurance providers to offer **transportation** to covered medical appointments. Eligibility requirements vary, and pre-authorization is often required.

The COPD Score for Warfordsburg (ZIP Code 17267) is significantly impacted by the limited **transportation** options and the distances to **healthcare** facilities. The absence of public transit, combined with the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially unreliable ride-sharing, poses challenges for individuals managing COPD.

The availability of the Fulton County Transit Authority (FCTA) offers a valuable, albeit limited, resource for **healthcare access**. The need for advance scheduling and potential wait times must be considered. The availability of medical **transportation** services, while helpful, adds to the overall cost of care.

For individuals considering **moving to Warfordsburg**, a comprehensive assessment of their **transportation** needs and **healthcare access** requirements is essential. Planning for regular medical appointments, considering potential delays, and establishing a reliable **transportation** plan are crucial for managing COPD effectively.

The COPD Score for Warfordsburg reflects the reality of rural living: a trade-off between the tranquility of a small town and the logistical complexities of accessing specialized medical care. Careful planning, proactive engagement with available resources, and a willingness to adapt are essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community.