The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
78.28 percent of residents in 18231 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lehigh Valley Hospital - Hazleton with a distance of 4.07 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania
COPD Score | 89 |
---|---|
People Score | 69 |
Provider Score | 55 |
Hospital Score | 69 |
Travel Score | 64 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 18231 | Kelayres | Pennsylvania |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.00 | 0.00 | 5.04 |
1 Car | 15.84 | 15.84 | 21.45 |
2 Cars | 66.06 | 66.06 | 41.29 |
3 or More Cars | 18.10 | 18.10 | 32.22 |
Vehicular Access in 18231, Kelayres, Pennsylvania
## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Kelayres (ZIP Code 18231)
The crisp mountain air of Kelayres, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18231), whispers promises of respite for those seeking a quieter life. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the allure of this serene landscape hinges on a crucial factor: reliable access to healthcare. This write-up, a “COPD Score” assessment, delves into the complexities of transportation and healthcare access within and around Kelayres, offering a nuanced perspective for potential residents and current inhabitants alike. It's a vital consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Kelayres, especially those with COPD.
The very essence of healthcare access for COPD patients is intertwined with transportation. Frequent doctor appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation sessions, and potential emergency room visits necessitate a robust and dependable system. In Kelayres, the primary mode of transportation is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The rugged terrain and limited public transit options amplify the importance of this.
Driving times to healthcare facilities are a critical element of our COPD Score. The closest hospital with comprehensive pulmonary care is St. Luke's Miners Campus in Coaldale, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Accessing it involves navigating the winding roads, primarily Route 54, which can be challenging during inclement weather. Another option, albeit slightly further, is Lehigh Valley Hospital-Schuylkill in Pottsville, a 25-35 minute drive via Route 924 and Interstate 81. This route, while offering the speed of the interstate, can experience heavy traffic, particularly during peak hours. The ability to withstand such travel is paramount for COPD patients.
Furthermore, specialized pulmonary clinics and rehabilitation centers are scattered throughout the region. The drive to these facilities, often located in larger towns like Hazleton (30-45 minutes via Route 924 and Interstate 80) or Allentown (approximately an hour and 15 minutes via Interstate 80 and Route 22), adds another layer of complexity. These longer journeys necessitate careful planning, considering the patient’s stamina and potential for exacerbations.
Public transit, a potential lifeline for those unable to drive, presents significant limitations in Kelayres. The Luzerne County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some bus service, but its routes are limited and infrequent. While LCTA Route 60, for instance, might offer some connectivity to Hazleton, the schedule may not align with medical appointments, and the frequency is not ideal for regular healthcare needs. ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for COPD patients, and the availability of wheelchair lifts and other accommodations on LCTA buses should be verified.
The lack of readily available public transit underscores the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. This unreliability could pose a significant challenge for individuals requiring urgent medical attention.
Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility issues, offer a more dependable alternative. Companies like MedStar and LifeFleet provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services come at a cost and require advance booking, which might not always be feasible in emergencies. Assessing the availability, cost, and responsiveness of these services is crucial when evaluating healthcare access.
The overall COPD Score for Kelayres, based on these transportation factors, is moderate. While the proximity to hospitals and specialized clinics is relatively good, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services introduce significant challenges.
The remoteness of Kelayres also impacts access to pharmacies and other essential services. While local pharmacies in nearby towns like Tamaqua (10-15 minutes via Route 54) offer prescription services, the drive time adds another layer of complexity for individuals managing COPD. The availability of home delivery services from pharmacies is a significant advantage, but this should be confirmed.
For individuals considering moving to Kelayres with COPD, careful planning is essential. A thorough assessment of their transportation needs, including the ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the accessibility and affordability of medical transportation services, is paramount.
Furthermore, the availability of in-home healthcare services, such as respiratory therapists and home health aides, can significantly improve the quality of life for COPD patients in Kelayres. Assessing the availability of these services and their proximity to the patient's residence is a crucial aspect of the overall COPD Score.
The climate in Kelayres, with its cold winters and potential for air quality issues, also warrants consideration. The exacerbation of COPD symptoms by cold air and poor air quality necessitates careful management and access to appropriate medical care.
In conclusion, while Kelayres offers the allure of a peaceful lifestyle, individuals with COPD must carefully weigh the benefits against the transportation and healthcare access challenges. A proactive approach, involving thorough research, careful planning, and a clear understanding of the available resources, is essential for ensuring a high quality of life and effective COPD management in this beautiful, yet geographically isolated, community. The COPD Score for Kelayres highlights the importance of comprehensive planning for those considering this move, ensuring they can navigate the complexities of transportation and healthcare access to maintain their well-being.
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