17306, Bendersville, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17306, Bendersville, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.39 percent of residents in 17306 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Gettysburg Hospital with a distance of 11.10 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17306

The crisp air of Bendersville, Pennsylvania, nestled in ZIP code 17306, offers a certain rural charm. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), that charm can be overshadowed by the practical realities of healthcare access. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, explores the transportation landscape for residents needing regular medical attention, focusing on drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for those considering a move to Bendersville or already residing there, ensuring they can navigate the complexities of healthcare access with informed confidence.

The cornerstone of any COPD patient's well-being is consistent access to medical care. This includes routine check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and potentially, emergency interventions. In Bendersville, the primary challenge lies in the geographic distance to specialized healthcare facilities. While the town itself offers some basic medical services, the more comprehensive care often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in this rural environment. The primary arteries connecting Bendersville to healthcare providers are US Route 30 and Pennsylvania Route 94. For those seeking specialized pulmonary care, Gettysburg, approximately 15 miles east via US Route 30, provides a reasonable option. The drive, typically taking around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic, is generally manageable. However, traffic can become congested during peak hours, potentially adding to the commute time and exacerbating breathing difficulties for COPD patients.

Further afield, Harrisburg, roughly 45 miles northeast, offers a wider array of specialists and hospitals, including those with dedicated pulmonary departments. The journey to Harrisburg, primarily via US Route 15, can take approximately an hour, assuming favorable traffic conditions. This longer drive presents a significant challenge, demanding careful planning and consideration of potential fatigue and respiratory distress.

Public transportation options in Bendersville are limited. The Adams County Transit Authority (ACTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and the service area is restricted. ACTA does not provide direct routes to many healthcare facilities, and the schedules are not designed for regular medical appointments. The lack of frequent service and the potential for long wait times between transfers make public transit a less-than-ideal option for many COPD patients, especially those with mobility limitations.

While ACTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and priority seating, the limited routes and schedules still pose a barrier. Passengers with COPD, who may also have other mobility issues, could find the extended travel times and potential for crowded buses particularly challenging. Careful planning and coordination with ACTA would be essential for anyone relying on public transit for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bendersville area, but their reliability and cost can be unpredictable. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can quickly accumulate, making it a less sustainable option for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for COPD patients. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically involve door-to-door transportation, often with wheelchair accessibility and trained personnel. While these services can be a lifeline, they often come at a higher cost than ride-sharing or driving, and advance booking is usually required.

Medical transport providers like CareRide and First Transit are present in the area, providing transportation for medical appointments. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, and it's crucial to verify their service area and capacity to handle specific patient needs, such as oxygen requirements or mobility assistance.

The "COPD Score" for Bendersville, 17306, reveals a mixed picture. While the proximity to Gettysburg offers relatively easy access to some healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges. The longer drives to Harrisburg and the potential for traffic congestion add to the complexity. Ride-sharing and medical transportation offer alternative solutions, but their cost and availability must be carefully considered.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Bendersville, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is crucial. Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable transportation, and the ability to manage potential travel-related challenges should be primary considerations.

The decision to relocate to Bendersville requires a careful balancing act. The rural setting offers a certain peace, but the realities of healthcare access must be weighed against the benefits. Planning ahead, exploring all available transportation options, and establishing a strong relationship with local healthcare providers are essential for ensuring a good quality of life for COPD patients in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.