17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17760, North Bend, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.42 percent of residents in 17760 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucktail Medical Center with a distance of 2.29 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17760 (North Bend, Pennsylvania)**

Navigating the challenges of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access. For those contemplating a move to or residing in ZIP Code 17760 (North Bend, Pennsylvania), a comprehensive understanding of transportation options is crucial. This "COPD Score" write-up analyzes commute times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions, providing a nuanced perspective on healthcare accessibility. It's about empowering informed decisions regarding healthcare access, especially for individuals with COPD, and evaluating the suitability of this location.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of North Bend is UPMC Susquehanna, located in Williamsport, approximately 25 miles away. The most direct route involves driving along **PA-287 South** to **US-220 South**, then merging onto **I-180 East**. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This commute, though manageable, can present challenges for individuals with COPD. The physical exertion of driving, coupled with potential exposure to air pollutants during peak traffic hours, could exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

Alternative routes exist, though they may add to the travel time. Taking **PA-144 South** to **PA-44 West** and then connecting to **I-180 East** offers a scenic, albeit slower, journey. This route might be preferable for those who find the faster, more congested highways stressful. However, the longer travel time could pose an additional strain for individuals with COPD, potentially increasing the risk of symptom flares.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 17760 are limited. The primary provider is the River Valley TransitValley Transit (RVT), operating in the Williamsport area. However, RVT's services do not directly extend into North Bend. Therefore, relying solely on public transit for healthcare appointments at UPMC Susquehanna would be impractical, requiring multiple transfers and extended travel times. This significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals with COPD, who often require frequent medical visits.

RVT does offer some ADA-accessible buses, but their routes and schedules are not conducive to reaching healthcare facilities from North Bend. The lack of readily available public transportation highlights a critical barrier to healthcare access for residents with mobility limitations or those unable to drive. This transportation gap necessitates exploration of alternative options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Williamsport area. However, their availability in North Bend is less reliable. The cost of ride-sharing for a 50-mile round trip to UPMC Susquehanna could be substantial, posing a financial burden for individuals on fixed incomes or with limited resources. Moreover, the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing, including potential wait times and driver availability, adds an element of uncertainty, which can be particularly stressful for individuals with COPD.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport (NEMT). These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offering door-to-door assistance and potentially accommodating medical equipment needs. While NEMT provides a vital service, it comes with a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing, and prior arrangements are typically required.

For individuals with COPD considering a move to North Bend, careful consideration of these transportation factors is paramount. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential expense of ride-sharing or medical transport services create challenges. The COPD Score for this area is negatively impacted by these factors, suggesting that healthcare access could be a significant concern.

When assessing the suitability of North Bend for individuals with COPD, it is essential to weigh the benefits of a rural lifestyle against the potential drawbacks of limited healthcare access. The tranquility and natural beauty of the area may be appealing, but the practical challenges of commuting to medical appointments must be carefully considered.

Individuals with COPD should proactively plan for their transportation needs. This might involve establishing a network of support, including family members, friends, or community organizations, who can provide transportation assistance. Exploring the availability and cost of medical transportation services is also crucial.

Furthermore, when evaluating housing options, proximity to healthcare facilities should be a key factor. While North Bend itself may offer limited healthcare services, residing closer to Williamsport or other towns with more comprehensive healthcare options could significantly improve healthcare access.

The decision to move to North Bend or any rural area should be made with a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. This COPD Score analysis serves as a starting point for informed decision-making, empowering individuals with COPD to prioritize their health and well-being. Careful planning, proactive resourcefulness, and a realistic assessment of transportation options are essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access in this location. The journey to better health requires navigating not just the physical landscape, but also the complexities of transportation and healthcare access.