17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17930, Cumbola, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.48 percent of residents in 17930 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Schuylkill Medical Center - South Jackson Street with a distance of 3.17 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cumbola (ZIP Code 17930)

The air hangs heavy in Cumbola, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17930), a small community nestled in the heart of Schuylkill County. For residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to breathe freely is paramount, and so too is access to timely and reliable healthcare. This write-up assesses the "COPD Score" for this area, evaluating the challenges and opportunities in **transportation** and **healthcare access**, particularly for those considering **moving to Cumbola**.

The primary challenge in 17930 is its rural nature. The nearest significant medical facilities are in Pottsville, approximately 10 miles away, and Reading, about 50 miles distant. While the distance might seem manageable, the availability of suitable **transportation** options significantly impacts the COPD Score. The terrain is hilly, and winter weather can be severe, adding further complexity to the journey.

Driving is the most common mode of **transportation** in Cumbola. The primary routes to Pottsville involve navigating Route 901, a winding two-lane road, and then connecting to Route 61. Travel time to Pottsville can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Route 61, a major highway, provides a more direct route but often experiences congestion, particularly during peak hours. Reaching Reading necessitates a longer drive, typically via Route 61 South, followed by Interstate 78 East, a journey of approximately one hour and fifteen minutes under ideal conditions.

For individuals with COPD, this reliance on personal vehicles presents several obstacles. The physical exertion of driving, especially during exacerbations, can be debilitating. The financial burden of vehicle ownership, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance, adds to the stress. Moreover, the lack of readily available parking at medical facilities can exacerbate breathing difficulties.

Public **transportation** options are limited. Schuylkill Transportation System (STS) operates a bus service, but its routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly in rural areas like Cumbola. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, but the frequency of these buses on specific routes serving Cumbola needs to be confirmed. Detailed information about STS routes, schedules, and ADA features can be found on the STS website. However, the bus service alone is unlikely to be a viable solution for regular medical appointments, especially for those requiring frequent treatments or experiencing acute respiratory distress.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability can be inconsistent. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is a concern. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for regular medical appointments. Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and Logisticare provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The availability of these services in 17930 and their coverage by insurance plans must be carefully investigated.

Healthcare **access** extends beyond simply reaching a medical facility. The availability of specialized pulmonology services, respiratory therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs is critical for effective COPD management. Pottsville Hospital-Geisinger offers a range of respiratory services, including pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Reading Hospital, a larger facility, provides a broader spectrum of pulmonary care, including advanced diagnostic and treatment options. However, the distance to Reading necessitates careful planning and **transportation** arrangements.

The COPD Score in 17930 is negatively impacted by the limited **transportation** options and the reliance on personal vehicles. The infrequent public **transportation**, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical **transportation** services all contribute to the challenges of accessing healthcare. While the proximity to Pottsville Hospital-Geisinger offers some advantages, the longer distance to Reading Hospital and the associated **transportation** difficulties pose a significant barrier for some residents.

For individuals **moving to Cumbola** with COPD, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and capabilities is essential. Factors to consider include the severity of their condition, their mobility limitations, their financial resources, and their ability to drive or secure reliable **transportation**. They should research the availability of medical **transportation** services, investigate the accessibility of STS bus routes, and assess the potential cost of ride-sharing.

Furthermore, individuals should explore the availability of telehealth services, which can provide remote consultations and monitoring, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. They should also establish a strong relationship with their primary care physician and pulmonologist to ensure proactive management of their COPD.

The COPD Score in 17930 can be improved by initiatives that enhance **transportation** options and improve **healthcare access**. This includes advocating for increased frequency and coverage of STS bus routes, particularly those serving medical facilities. It also involves exploring partnerships with medical **transportation** providers to ensure affordable and reliable services for residents with COPD.

In conclusion, the COPD Score in Cumbola reflects the challenges of rural living. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited **transportation** options and the distance to specialized medical care create significant obstacles for individuals managing COPD. Careful planning, proactive healthcare management, and a strong understanding of available resources are essential for ensuring optimal **healthcare access** and quality of life for those living with COPD in 17930. The journey to improved health requires navigating not only the physical landscape but also the complexities of **transportation** and the healthcare system itself.