17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17881, Trevorton, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.65 percent of residents in 17881 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 26.42 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Trevorton, PA (ZIP Code 17881)

Considering a move to Trevorton, Pennsylvania, and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? Evaluating your access to healthcare is paramount. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 17881, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals with COPD. It considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions, all crucial factors impacting healthcare access.

Trevorton, a small community nestled in Northumberland County, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The town's rural character influences the availability and efficiency of various transportation modes. Successfully navigating the healthcare system here requires careful planning and a keen understanding of local resources. This assessment aims to provide that understanding, empowering you to make informed decisions about your healthcare and your potential relocation.

The primary artery connecting Trevorton to healthcare facilities is **Pennsylvania Route 125**. This road, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays, particularly during inclement weather. The drive to Geisinger Shamokin Area Community Hospital, the closest full-service hospital, is approximately 10 miles, translating to a drive time of roughly 15-20 minutes under ideal conditions. However, factors like traffic, which can be present during peak hours, or seasonal weather conditions, can easily extend this travel time, impacting the timely delivery of care.

Further afield, the larger Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, offers specialized COPD care. The journey to Danville requires navigating **Route 125** to **Route 61**, then onto **Interstate 80**. This trip, covering approximately 40 miles, typically takes around 50 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Interstate travel, while generally faster, can pose challenges for individuals with COPD, particularly those with breathing difficulties exacerbated by prolonged sitting or exposure to exhaust fumes.

Public transportation options in Trevorton are limited. Northumberland County Transportation Authority (NCTA) provides bus service, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially on weekends. The primary route serving Trevorton is likely to be Route 10, which may offer connections to Shamokin and other surrounding towns. However, the frequency of these buses is often limited to a few trips per day. Individuals with COPD must carefully consider these limitations.

ADA accessibility on NCTA buses is a crucial factor. All NCTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is essential for those with mobility limitations often associated with COPD. However, the lack of frequent service means that individuals may have to rely on other means of transportation. Furthermore, the limited geographical coverage of the bus routes can make it difficult to reach specialized COPD clinics or pulmonologists located outside of the immediate Trevorton area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and availability in Trevorton are variable. Demand is often low, leading to longer wait times and potentially higher fares. This presents a significant challenge, especially during emergencies or when needing to attend appointments at specific times. For individuals with COPD, the unpredictability of ride-sharing services could compromise their ability to access timely medical care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more reliable alternative. Companies like MedRide or Access Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services often require advance booking, ensuring a scheduled ride to and from medical appointments. While these services can be costly, they provide a valuable solution for individuals with COPD who require dependable transportation.

Considering the challenges of transportation in Trevorton, careful planning is essential for healthcare access. Individuals with COPD must proactively consider their transportation needs when scheduling appointments. This may involve coordinating with family or friends for rides, utilizing medical transportation services, or adjusting appointment times to coincide with available public transit options.

The COPD Score for transportation in Trevorton is moderate. While healthcare facilities are accessible, the limitations of public transportation, the variability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for weather-related delays on primary roadways create significant challenges. Individuals with COPD must prioritize planning and explore alternative transportation options to ensure timely and reliable access to medical care.

Moving to Trevorton with COPD requires a thorough assessment of your healthcare needs and the available transportation resources. Evaluate the frequency of your medical appointments, the distance to your healthcare providers, and your ability to manage the physical demands of travel. Consider the cost and reliability of each transportation option, and prioritize the services that best meet your individual needs.

Ultimately, successful healthcare access in Trevorton for individuals with COPD hinges on proactive planning, resourcefulness, and a willingness to explore alternative transportation solutions. By understanding the transportation landscape and carefully evaluating your options, you can ensure that your healthcare needs are met, and you can thrive in your new community. This assessment provides a foundation for making informed decisions, empowering you to navigate the healthcare system and enjoy a fulfilling life in Trevorton.