17921, Ashland, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17921, Ashland, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.70 percent of residents in 17921 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 10.44 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ashland, PA (ZIP Code 17921)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), access to timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This analysis, a “COPD Score” assessment, delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Ashland, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17921), evaluating the ease of access to medical facilities, particularly for those with respiratory limitations. Considering the challenges COPD patients face, the study emphasizes practical transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, and the associated travel times. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Ashland or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

The primary healthcare provider for Ashland residents is Geisinger St. Luke’s Hospital, located in Orwigsburg, approximately 15 miles away. This distance translates to a drive of roughly 20-30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Accessing the hospital necessitates navigating several roadways. From Ashland, one would typically utilize **Route 61 South**, a major artery connecting the town to the south. This route offers relatively smooth driving, though congestion can occur during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. The final stretch to the hospital involves **Route 443 East**, which leads directly to the medical facility.

Alternatively, for those residing in the northern parts of Ashland, or if **Route 61** experiences significant delays, **Route 901 South** provides an alternative route, connecting to **Route 443** near Orwigsburg. While this route might add a few minutes to the journey, it can be a viable option to bypass traffic bottlenecks on **Route 61**. The condition of these roads is generally good, but winter weather can present challenges, necessitating extra caution and potentially impacting travel times.

Public transportation options are limited in Ashland and the surrounding areas, posing a significant challenge for individuals with COPD. The Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are not optimized for healthcare access. Route 40, while serving the area, does not directly connect to the hospital. Furthermore, the STS system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, while present, may not fully address the specific needs of COPD patients, such as the need for assistance with boarding or the availability of oxygen-friendly seating.

The lack of robust public transit underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Booking in advance is highly recommended. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, are another option. Several companies operate in the region, including Liberty Transportation and Med-Ride. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with patient needs. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or personal transportation. The availability of these services can also be limited, especially during peak demand periods.

For individuals with COPD, the ability to drive themselves to appointments is often a significant factor in their independence and quality of life. However, the physical demands of driving, especially during exacerbations, can be challenging. The availability of readily accessible parking at medical facilities is also crucial. Geisinger St. Luke’s Hospital offers ample parking, but the distance from the parking area to the hospital entrance can be a concern for patients with limited mobility.

The COPD Score for Ashland, PA, is, therefore, moderate. While the primary healthcare provider is accessible via relatively direct driving routes, the reliance on personal vehicles creates a vulnerability for those who cannot drive or who experience difficulty with transportation. The limited public transit options and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability further complicate healthcare access.

The score is also influenced by the challenges associated with winter weather and the potential for traffic congestion on **Route 61**. The lack of readily available medical transportation services, coupled with the potential costs, also contributes to the score. For individuals with severe COPD, these transportation limitations could significantly impact their ability to access timely and appropriate medical care.

For individuals considering moving to Ashland with COPD, a careful assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Factors to consider include the ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial resources to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services. It is also crucial to factor in the distance to the hospital and the potential for delays due to traffic or weather.

The healthcare access landscape in Ashland necessitates proactive planning. Patients should establish a reliable transportation plan, including backup options, to ensure consistent access to medical appointments. This might involve pre-booking ride-sharing services, establishing a relationship with a medical transportation provider, or coordinating with family or friends for assistance.

Furthermore, the availability of telehealth services can play a crucial role in improving healthcare access for COPD patients in Ashland. Telehealth allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, reducing the need for frequent travel to the hospital. This can be particularly beneficial during exacerbations or when transportation is challenging.

The COPD Score is a dynamic measure that can be improved through various initiatives. Increased investment in public transportation, including routes that directly connect Ashland to the hospital, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Expanding the availability of medical transportation services and promoting telehealth options would also contribute to a more favorable score.

In conclusion, while Ashland offers access to quality healthcare, the transportation challenges present significant hurdles for individuals with COPD. A proactive approach to transportation planning, combined with the utilization of available resources, is essential for ensuring optimal healthcare access. The COPD Score highlights the need for continuous efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and support services to meet the needs of this vulnerable population. The future of healthcare access in Ashland hinges on addressing these transportation limitations, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents managing COPD.