17867, Rebuck, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17867, Rebuck, Pennsylvania is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.30 percent of residents in 17867 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 18.09 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rebuck, PA (ZIP Code 17867)

The picturesque, rural community of Rebuck, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of Northumberland County (ZIP Code 17867), presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Evaluating "healthcare access" here necessitates a thorough understanding of the available "transportation" options, considering the impact of COPD on mobility and the critical need for timely medical attention. This "COPD Score" write-up will delve into the realities of accessing healthcare in Rebuck, providing a comprehensive overview of drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions. For those "moving to Rebuck," this information is crucial for informed decision-making.

The primary concern for COPD patients is the potentially significant drive times to access specialized medical care. Rebuck's location, while offering serenity, places it at a distance from major medical centers. The nearest hospitals with pulmonology departments are in Sunbury and Shamokin, requiring careful consideration of routes and potential delays.

Driving to Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital, the most direct route involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 147 south. Expect a drive time of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route, while relatively straightforward, can be impacted by seasonal changes, particularly during winter months. The road surface is generally well-maintained, but the rural nature of the area means emergency services response times might be longer.

Alternatively, accessing Geisinger Medical Center in Sunbury involves a longer journey. The most common route utilizes Route 147 south to Route 61, then merging onto US-11. This drive can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This route, while offering more options for shopping and dining, also presents more potential for congestion, especially during peak hours. The potential for delays necessitates careful planning for medical appointments and the possibility of unexpected exacerbations of COPD symptoms.

Public transit options in Rebuck are limited. Northumberland County does not have a comprehensive public transportation system. The primary option is the Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA), which offers demand-response service. This service requires advance booking, typically 24 hours in advance, and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. The NCTA operates within Northumberland County, but its routes and schedules are limited, and service to Rebuck is infrequent. Furthermore, the availability of vehicles with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair lifts, must be confirmed when booking, adding another layer of complexity for COPD patients with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Sunbury and Shamokin areas, but their presence in Rebuck is less consistent. The availability of drivers can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore risky, requiring careful planning and the need for backup transportation options. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, adding to the financial burden of managing COPD.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including LifeFleet Ambulance and other private ambulance services. These services often provide transportation with trained medical personnel and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues or those requiring oxygen support. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability might be limited, particularly for non-emergency appointments.

The "COPD Score" for Rebuck, therefore, reflects a challenging landscape for "healthcare access". The reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care, coupled with the limited public transit and the potential for unpredictable ride-sharing availability, creates a complex situation for COPD patients. The drive times, while manageable, require careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The lack of readily available alternative transportation options necessitates proactive strategies to ensure timely access to medical care.

For individuals "moving to Rebuck" with COPD, a thorough assessment of personal transportation needs is crucial. Owning a reliable vehicle and maintaining it properly is essential. Establishing a network of support, including family, friends, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance, is also highly recommended. Exploring the availability and cost of medical transportation services in advance is also a prudent measure.

Furthermore, individuals should proactively engage with their healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive COPD management plan that accounts for transportation challenges. This plan should include strategies for managing exacerbations, coordinating medication refills, and scheduling appointments to minimize travel time and potential delays. Telehealth options, where available, can also play a valuable role in providing remote consultations and monitoring.

In conclusion, while Rebuck offers a tranquil environment, the "transportation" limitations present a significant challenge for individuals managing COPD. The "COPD Score" reflects the need for proactive planning, reliance on personal vehicles, and a strong support network to ensure timely and consistent "healthcare access". For those "moving to Rebuck," a thorough understanding of these challenges and a proactive approach to managing them are essential for maintaining optimal health and quality of life.