17845, Millmont, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17845, Millmont, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.91 percent of residents in 17845 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 33.18 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Millmont (ZIP Code 17845)

The air hangs a little heavier in Millmont, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17845), a quiet community nestled amongst rolling hills and the Susquehanna River. For residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), this seemingly tranquil setting can present significant challenges, particularly when considering healthcare access. This analysis, a "COPD Score" for Millmont, delves into the complexities of transportation, a critical factor in managing this respiratory illness. It considers the ease and reliability of getting to medical appointments, a crucial aspect of life for those with COPD.

The foundation of healthcare access in Millmont, and a primary determinant of the COPD Score, is personal vehicle transportation. The major thoroughfare, Route 120, snakes its way through the area, providing a direct, albeit sometimes winding, route to larger towns and cities where specialized medical care is available. Driving times are generally manageable, with the nearest hospitals in Lewisburg and Williamsport. However, the drive itself can be a burden for individuals with COPD, especially during periods of high traffic or inclement weather.

A trip to Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, roughly 15 miles away, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via Route 120 and then Route 45. This journey, while relatively short, can be exhausting for someone with compromised lung function. The drive requires careful planning, including accounting for potential traffic delays and ensuring adequate oxygen supply if needed. The return trip, often after a medical appointment, can be particularly challenging, especially if the patient is feeling fatigued.

Heading east to Williamsport, home to UPMC Williamsport Hospital, is a longer haul, approximately 35 miles, primarily utilizing Route 120 and then Interstate 180. This drive, taking around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, presents a greater physical and logistical challenge. The longer duration increases the potential for discomfort and the need for more frequent rest stops. The COPD Score is negatively impacted by these longer drive times, as they represent a significant barrier to healthcare access.

Public transportation options in Millmont are limited, significantly impacting the COPD Score. The lack of a robust public transit system is a major concern for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive. There is no established bus route within the immediate area, and the nearest public transit options are located in larger towns like Lewisburg and Williamsport. This absence of readily available public transit severely restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, particularly those with limited mobility or financial constraints.

The absence of public transit also hinders access for those who may need to attend multiple appointments or require frequent check-ups. For someone with COPD, the ability to rely on public transportation is essential for maintaining a consistent healthcare regimen. The lack of this option in Millmont significantly lowers the COPD Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution, although their availability in Millmont is variable. While these services may be accessible, their reliability and cost can be significant concerns. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. Furthermore, the cost of frequent ride-sharing trips can quickly become a financial burden, especially for individuals with limited incomes or fixed budgets.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility challenges, are another option to consider. Companies such as MedRide or First Transit offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often require pre-booking and may come with higher costs than standard ride-sharing or public transit. The availability of these services in Millmont and the surrounding areas needs to be investigated.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of any public transit options is crucial for individuals with COPD. While the current lack of public transit in Millmont renders this point moot, any future expansion of public transit must prioritize ADA compliance. This includes ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, have designated seating for individuals with disabilities, and provide clear and accessible information.

When considering moving to Millmont, individuals with COPD must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create a complex situation. The COPD Score is lower due to these factors, highlighting the need for careful planning and consideration of healthcare access.

The location of pharmacies is another factor that affects the COPD Score. Millmont has a few local pharmacies, but the availability of specialized medications or equipment may require a trip to larger towns. The accessibility of these pharmacies, including their hours of operation and the availability of delivery services, is crucial.

The overall COPD Score for Millmont is moderate. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Lewisburg and Williamsport offers some advantages, the reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of robust public transportation pose significant challenges. Individuals with COPD considering relocating to Millmont must carefully assess their transportation needs and plan accordingly.

The potential for future development of public transit or the expansion of ride-sharing services could improve the COPD Score. However, until these improvements are realized, individuals with COPD must rely on their own vehicles, or the often expensive options of ride-sharing and medical transport.

The COPD Score is a fluid metric, and it is essential to regularly reassess healthcare access based on evolving circumstances. As the community grows and transportation options change, the COPD Score will need to be updated to reflect the current realities of healthcare access for residents of Millmont.