17941, Klingerstown, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 17941, Klingerstown, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.20 percent of residents in 17941 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 22.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger Medical Center with a distance of 20.15 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 17941

The crisp air of Klingerstown, Pennsylvania, nestled in the heart of ZIP Code 17941, offers a serene backdrop for life. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the very essence of that air – its quality, accessibility, and the ability to reach healthcare – becomes paramount. This write-up provides a detailed COPD Score assessment, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities from this rural community. We will explore the challenges and opportunities for those seeking healthcare access, particularly concerning pulmonary care.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is transportation. For residents of 17941, this often translates to navigating winding rural roads. The primary thoroughfare is **Pennsylvania Route 147**, a vital artery connecting Klingerstown to larger towns and cities. Travel times, a critical component of the COPD Score, vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. A trip to Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional healthcare hub, is approximately a 45-minute drive via Route 147 and **US Route 11**.

This drive, while manageable for many, presents challenges for individuals with COPD. The unpredictable nature of the disease, with its exacerbations and breathing difficulties, can make even short journeys arduous. The physical strain of driving, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, can significantly impact a patient’s well-being and ability to adhere to scheduled appointments.

Beyond Danville, access to specialized pulmonary care might necessitate travel to larger metropolitan areas. Philadelphia, with its renowned medical institutions, is roughly a three-hour drive via **Interstate 81** and the **Schuylkill Expressway (I-76)**. This longer journey presents a substantial hurdle, potentially requiring overnight stays and careful planning. The COPD Score must reflect this increased burden on patients.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. The primary provider is the **Schuylkill Transportation System (STS)**, which operates bus routes throughout the county. However, service in 17941 is infrequent, and routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, must be verified for each route. Detailed route numbers and schedules are essential for a complete COPD Score assessment.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. The availability of drivers in rural areas is often less consistent than in urban centers, and surge pricing during peak hours or medical emergencies can be a significant financial burden. These factors contribute to the overall transportation score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **Care Ride** and **Medical Transportation Services** provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel and vehicles equipped to accommodate medical equipment. However, these services come at a cost, and their availability in 17941 must be confirmed. The COPD Score must consider the financial implications of these services.

The assessment of healthcare access must also consider the physical environment of the healthcare facilities themselves. Are facilities accessible? Are there designated parking spaces for individuals with disabilities? Are there ramps and elevators to navigate the buildings? These details are crucial for a complete COPD Score.

When considering moving to Klingerstown, or any location, individuals with COPD must meticulously evaluate the healthcare access landscape. This involves not only the availability of pulmonary specialists but also the ease with which those specialists can be reached. The COPD Score, therefore, is not merely a measure of healthcare availability but a holistic assessment of the transportation challenges and opportunities.

The COPD Score will be affected by the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability and reliability of transportation options, and the financial burden associated with accessing care. The score will also consider the patient's ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the overall physical and financial resources available.

The COPD Score for 17941 will likely reflect the challenges of rural healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for long travel times to specialized care centers will contribute to a lower score. However, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, along with the potential for telehealth appointments, may partially mitigate these challenges.

Ultimately, the COPD Score is a valuable tool for individuals with COPD, helping them make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living environment. By carefully evaluating the transportation options, healthcare access, and the overall quality of life in 17941, individuals can make informed decisions about moving to Klingerstown and managing their condition effectively. The goal is to empower individuals with COPD to live fulfilling lives, even in the face of transportation challenges.