17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17864, Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.29 percent of residents in 17864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 26.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 23.85 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Port Trevorton (ZIP Code 17864)

Considering a move to the charming, rural community of Port Trevorton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17864)? If you or a loved one lives with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), understanding the practicalities of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides a "COPD Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their implications for managing COPD symptoms and attending necessary medical appointments. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility within and around Port Trevorton.

The ability to reach healthcare facilities quickly and reliably is critical for individuals managing COPD. Frequent doctor visits, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to emergency care are essential for maintaining quality of life and preventing exacerbations. This assessment aims to illuminate the realities of transportation in this specific area, providing valuable insights for informed decision-making.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

Port Trevorton, nestled in Snyder County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, but its rural setting impacts transportation choices. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Pennsylvania Route 147 and Pennsylvania Route 35. These roads, while scenic, can experience traffic, especially during peak hours or inclement weather.

The nearest major hospitals, such as Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg and Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, are significant destinations. Driving to Evangelical Community Hospital, approximately 25 miles away, can take between 35 and 50 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. The journey involves navigating Route 147 south, then transitioning onto US-15 South or Route 45 West.

Geisinger Medical Center, a more comprehensive facility, is roughly 30 miles away. The drive typically takes 40 to 60 minutes, utilizing Route 35 South, Route 147 South, and then onto I-80 East or Route 11/15 South. This route involves more complex navigation and potential for delays.

Consider the impact of weather. Winter storms can significantly increase drive times and pose challenges for individuals with COPD, making it crucial to factor in seasonal variations when planning appointments or seeking emergency care.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Port Trevorton are limited. The primary provider is the Snyder County Transportation Authority (SCTA). SCTA offers demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is crucial for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to health conditions.

While SCTA provides door-to-door service, it's essential to consider the scheduling requirements and potential wait times. Advance booking is necessary, which can be challenging for urgent medical needs. The SCTA vehicles are ADA-accessible, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service.

Public transit's frequency is a key consideration. The SCTA operates on a schedule, and trips to healthcare facilities may require careful planning to align with appointment times.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have limited availability in the Port Trevorton area. While they might be available, relying on them for consistent transportation to medical appointments is not advisable. Availability can be unpredictable, and surge pricing during peak hours could significantly increase costs.

Medical transport services are a vital resource for individuals with COPD who require specialized assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

It is essential to research and pre-arrange medical transport services. This proactive approach ensures that reliable transportation is available when needed. Consider factors like insurance coverage, cost, and the company's experience with COPD patients.

**Healthcare Access and Implications for COPD Management:**

The transportation landscape in Port Trevorton presents both challenges and opportunities for individuals with COPD. While the rural setting offers a peaceful environment, healthcare access requires careful planning and reliance on various transportation modes.

The drive times to major hospitals necessitate proactive appointment scheduling, allowing ample time for travel and potential delays. Leveraging the SCTA's demand-response service is crucial for those without personal vehicles. However, the need for advance booking and potential wait times should be factored into healthcare planning.

Ride-sharing services may offer limited options, but medical transport services provide a reliable alternative for specialized needs. Pre-arranging medical transport is essential for individuals requiring assistance with mobility or those unable to drive.

**The "COPD Score" Assessment:**

Based on the transportation options available, the "COPD Score" for Port Trevorton (ZIP Code 17864) can be considered **moderate**. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles, scheduled public transit, and pre-arranged medical transport necessitates careful planning and preparation.

The score reflects the need for proactive measures to ensure reliable transportation to medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and emergency care. The limited availability of ride-sharing services and the scheduling requirements of public transit highlight the importance of planning.

**Recommendations for Individuals with COPD Considering a Move to Port Trevorton:**

* **Assess your transportation needs:** Determine your ability to drive, the frequency of medical appointments, and the need for specialized assistance.
* **Research medical transport services:** Identify reputable NEMT providers in the area and understand their services, costs, and insurance coverage.
* **Familiarize yourself with the SCTA:** Understand the scheduling process, ADA accessibility, and potential wait times.
* **Plan for inclement weather:** Factor in potential delays due to snow, ice, or other weather conditions.
* **Build a support network:** Enlist the help of family, friends, or community resources for transportation assistance.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare:** While Port Trevorton offers a tranquil setting, evaluate the distance to healthcare facilities and the impact on your ability to receive timely care.

Moving to Port Trevorton can be a rewarding experience, but careful consideration of healthcare access is crucial for individuals with COPD. By understanding the transportation landscape, planning proactively, and utilizing available resources, individuals can successfully manage their condition and maintain a high quality of life in this charming community. Prioritizing transportation and healthcare access is key to a successful transition.