The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 18222, Drums, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
68.70 percent of residents in 18222 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.35 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 5.56 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 18222, Drums, Pennsylvania
COPD Score | 81 |
---|---|
People Score | 68 |
Provider Score | 71 |
Hospital Score | 45 |
Travel Score | 56 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 18222 | Drums | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 1.33 | 1.33 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 12.04 | 12.04 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 39.73 | 39.73 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 46.90 | 46.90 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 18222, Drums, Pennsylvania
## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Drums, PA (ZIP Code 18222)
For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 18222 (Drums, PA), offering a COPD Score to gauge the ease of navigating healthcare appointments, treatments, and emergencies. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transportation services, all crucial elements in ensuring quality of life for those living with COPD. A lower score indicates easier access.
The geographical reality of Drums presents both advantages and challenges. Nestled in Luzerne County, the area offers a tranquil, rural environment, attractive for those seeking respite from urban hustle. However, this very tranquility can translate to limited transportation options, a critical factor for COPD patients who may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and other mobility limitations.
**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**
The primary mode of transportation in Drums is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The ability to drive, or have access to a driver, is crucial. From Drums, the nearest major medical facilities are in Wilkes-Barre, approximately 20 miles away. Driving to the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
The journey predominantly involves navigating Interstate 80 (I-80), a major east-west artery, and then transitioning onto Interstate 81 (I-81) north towards Wilkes-Barre. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, especially during peak commuting hours. The secondary route involves using Pennsylvania Route 309, a north-south highway, which can be a more direct, albeit slower, option.
Smaller roadways, such as Pennsylvania Route 93 and local roads within Drums, provide access to pharmacies, primary care physicians, and urgent care facilities. However, these facilities may not always offer specialized COPD care or the comprehensive services available at larger hospitals. The COPD Score reflects the dependence on a personal vehicle, factoring in potential travel time variability due to weather, traffic, and the patient's physical condition.
**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**
Public transportation options in Drums are significantly limited. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides bus service throughout the county, but its routes and frequency are sparse in the Drums area. The primary LCTA route serving the area is Route 17, which connects Hazleton to Wilkes-Barre.
This route operates on a limited schedule, typically with hourly or bi-hourly service, and may not be available during evenings or weekends. For individuals with COPD, the extended wait times, potential exposure to environmental irritants, and the physical exertion of boarding and disembarking buses can present significant challenges.
ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. LCTA buses are equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, the availability of these features does not negate the overall limitations of the public transit system in serving the specific needs of COPD patients. The COPD Score reflects the limited public transit options and the potential difficulties associated with their use.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps**
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Drums area, but their availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The response times for ride requests may be longer than in more densely populated areas, potentially delaying access to medical care.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to patients with mobility limitations, offer a more reliable option. Companies like MedTrans and Liberty Transportation specialize in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services require advance booking, which necessitates careful planning and coordination.
The COPD Score acknowledges the presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation options but factors in the potential for delays, the need for pre-planning, and the associated costs. These services, while valuable, are not always readily available on demand.
**The COPD Score for Drums, PA (ZIP Code 18222)**
Considering the factors discussed, the COPD Score for Drums, PA (ZIP Code 18222) is moderately challenging. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services contribute to this assessment. While medical transportation services provide a crucial lifeline, their pre-booking requirement and associated costs further influence the score.
**Factors contributing to the score:**
* **Drive Time:** 30-45 minutes to major medical facilities.
* **Public Transit:** Limited routes, infrequent service, and potential for delays.
* **Ride-Share:** Variable availability, especially during off-peak hours.
* **Medical Transportation:** Requires pre-booking, but offers specialized services.
**Recommendations for Individuals with COPD considering moving to Drums:**
* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate personal mobility and ability to drive or secure a driver.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments and transportation well in advance.
* **Explore Medical Transportation:** Investigate and establish relationships with medical transportation providers.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** If possible, choose housing closer to essential healthcare facilities.
* **Develop a Backup Plan:** Have alternative transportation options in case of emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.
**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Drums**
For individuals with COPD, the decision to move to Drums, PA (ZIP Code 18222) requires careful consideration of transportation and healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the limited transportation options present challenges. By proactively planning, leveraging available services, and prioritizing healthcare access, individuals can successfully manage their COPD while enjoying the benefits of living in this tranquil community. This COPD Score serves as a guide, highlighting the critical factors to consider when making this important life decision.
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