17814, Benton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17814, Benton, Pennsylvania is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.80 percent of residents in 17814 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 14.83 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Benton, PA (ZIP Code 17814)

Benton, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Columbia County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity can be complicated by the logistics of healthcare access. This COPD Score analysis, tailored for ZIP Code 17814, examines the transportation landscape, crucial for those needing regular medical attention. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing necessary care, vital information for anyone considering moving to Benton.

The cornerstone of this assessment revolves around the ability to reach healthcare facilities. The closest hospitals and specialized pulmonary care centers are not immediately within Benton’s borders. Therefore, transportation becomes paramount. The score incorporates factors like drive times, public transit options, availability of ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each element is weighed to reflect its impact on the ease and reliability of accessing medical care.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation will be personal vehicles. The major roadways impacting healthcare access include Interstate 80 (I-80), a vital east-west artery, and Route 487, a north-south connector. Other local roads, such as Route 239 and Route 254, provide access to smaller towns and local medical practices.

The nearest major hospital, Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, is approximately a 45-minute drive via I-80 East and then Route 54 East. This journey can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours or inclement weather. The drive to UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport, another significant healthcare provider, is roughly an hour and fifteen minutes, primarily using Route 487 South and then Route 15 South. This route, while scenic, can be prone to delays due to its rural nature.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are located in nearby towns like Bloomsburg and Berwick. These destinations are generally accessible within a 20-30 minute drive. However, specialized pulmonary care may necessitate travel to the larger hospitals, increasing the time commitment. The COPD Score considers the variability of these drive times, factoring in potential delays and the impact on individuals with breathing difficulties.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Columbia County are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but the routes and frequency are not extensive. Service to Benton and surrounding areas is limited, often requiring advance booking and potentially multiple transfers.

The CCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a critical consideration for individuals with COPD. However, the limited routes and schedules may not align with the needs of those requiring frequent medical appointments. The COPD Score reflects the constraints imposed by the lack of readily available public transit, acknowledging the potential difficulties for those unable to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have a presence in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural locations. Demand may be higher during peak hours, and wait times could be significant. Reliability is a concern, especially for individuals with urgent medical needs. The COPD Score accounts for the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, considering it as a secondary option.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a more tailored approach. These services, often provided by companies like MedTrans or local ambulance services, are designed to transport patients to medical appointments. They provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services often come at a higher cost and require advance booking. The COPD Score acknowledges the value of medical transport but also considers the financial implications and the need for pre-planning.

**Healthcare Access and the COPD Score**

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 17814 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The score considers the drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing, and the cost and accessibility of medical transport. A lower score indicates greater challenges in accessing care, while a higher score suggests a more favorable environment.

For individuals with COPD, the ability to reach healthcare facilities promptly and reliably is critical. The score assesses the ease with which individuals can attend appointments, receive treatments, and access emergency care. It considers the impact of transportation on the overall quality of life for those managing this chronic condition.

**Moving to Benton: A Considered Decision**

For individuals considering moving to Benton with COPD, this analysis provides essential insights. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of transportation to healthcare must be carefully considered. The COPD Score highlights the need for careful planning and the importance of evaluating individual transportation needs.

Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial implications of using ride-sharing or medical transport. Understanding the limitations of public transit is also crucial.

The COPD Score serves as a tool to inform decision-making. It encourages prospective residents to proactively address transportation needs, ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier to a fulfilling life in Benton. It emphasizes the importance of building a support network and planning for potential transportation challenges.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 17814 underscores the importance of transportation in managing COPD. While Benton offers a desirable lifestyle, healthcare access requires careful planning. The score encourages individuals to proactively assess their transportation needs and to develop strategies for reliable access to medical care. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, individuals with COPD can make informed decisions and navigate the transportation landscape effectively, ensuring their well-being in this tranquil community.