17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17880, Swengel, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 17880 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 17880 (Swengel, Pennsylvania)**

The air hangs crisp and clean in Swengel, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17880), a rural haven nestled amidst rolling hills and farmlands. This idyllic setting, however, presents a unique challenge for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Their ability to access vital healthcare hinges on the availability and efficiency of transportation, a critical factor in their overall well-being. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, assessing the accessibility of healthcare facilities and assigning a COPD Score, a measure of the ease with which individuals with COPD can reach necessary medical appointments.

The primary healthcare facility serving Swengel residents is Evangelical Community Hospital, located approximately 18 miles away in Lewisburg. The journey to this critical resource is primarily undertaken by car, relying on the network of roads that crisscross the region. The most direct route involves navigating Pennsylvania Route 45, a two-lane highway that winds through picturesque countryside. Drive times vary depending on traffic and weather conditions, typically ranging from 25 to 40 minutes.

Another option is to utilize Route 192, which provides an alternative path to Lewisburg. This route, though slightly longer, offers a more scenic drive, albeit with potentially slower speeds due to its winding nature. Both routes, however, present challenges for individuals with COPD. The extended drive times can exacerbate breathing difficulties, particularly during periods of poor air quality or extreme temperatures. Furthermore, the physical exertion of driving, including getting in and out of the vehicle, can be taxing for those with limited mobility.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The primary provider is River Valley TransitValley Transit, which operates a fixed-route bus system within the greater Susquehanna Valley region. However, service to Swengel is virtually non-existent, making it an impractical option for most residents. The lack of readily available public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may not always be readily accessible, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of these services can be unpredictable, potentially leading to delays or missed appointments. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial burden for individuals with limited incomes or those relying on frequent medical visits.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Transit and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the availability of these services in Swengel and the surrounding areas needs further investigation. The distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for long wait times could pose a significant challenge for individuals with COPD.

The COPD Score for Swengel, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17880) is calculated based on several factors, including drive times, public transportation availability, ride-sharing accessibility, and the presence of medical transportation services. The score reflects the ease with which individuals with COPD can access healthcare facilities, with a higher score indicating greater accessibility.

Given the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation, the COPD Score for Swengel is moderate. The primary factor limiting healthcare access is the distance to Evangelical Community Hospital and the associated drive times. The lack of readily available public transit further exacerbates the problem, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

The COPD Score is not a static measure; it is subject to change based on improvements in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of public transit services, or the increased availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation options. Any initiatives that reduce drive times, enhance public transportation, or improve the accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transportation services would significantly improve the COPD Score for Swengel residents.

For individuals considering moving to Swengel, Pennsylvania, and managing COPD, a thorough assessment of transportation options is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential costs and challenges associated with ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The community's healthcare access is a critical consideration, and the COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the transportation challenges faced by residents with COPD. It highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure, expand public transit options, and ensure the availability of accessible and affordable medical transportation services.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Swengel, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17880) reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural environment. While the area offers a peaceful and scenic setting, the limited transportation options pose a significant obstacle for individuals with COPD. Addressing these challenges through infrastructure improvements, enhanced public transit, and increased access to medical transportation is vital to ensure that residents with COPD can receive the timely and effective care they need.