18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 18439, Lakewood, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.13 percent of residents in 18439 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 13.78 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lakewood, PA (ZIP Code 18439)

The crisp mountain air of Lakewood, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18439), offers a serene backdrop, yet for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the tranquility is often overshadowed by the logistical complexities of accessing healthcare. This COPD Score analysis examines the multifaceted landscape of transportation options within and around Lakewood, evaluating their impact on healthcare access for residents. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Lakewood, especially those with respiratory conditions.

The very nature of COPD, a progressive lung disease, demands regular and often unpredictable medical attention. This necessitates reliable and accessible transportation options to facilitate timely appointments, medication refills, and potential emergency care. The following assessment provides a comprehensive overview of the transportation challenges and opportunities within the context of healthcare access in Lakewood.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

For many Lakewood residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The ability to drive oneself, or rely on a designated driver, is a significant factor in healthcare access. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are US-6, PA-590, and PA-307. Driving times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions.

The closest healthcare options, primarily primary care physicians and urgent care clinics, are located in the neighboring towns of Hawley and Honesdale. A drive to Hawley, typically via PA-590, can take approximately 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Honesdale, accessible via US-6 or PA-590, presents a similar drive time, offering a wider array of medical specialists and a larger hospital.

Further afield, Scranton, a regional hub for specialized medical services, is approximately a 45-60 minute drive via I-84 East and I-380 South. This longer commute presents significant challenges for COPD patients, particularly during exacerbations, when breathing difficulties can be exacerbated by the stress and physical demands of driving. The availability of parking at these facilities, especially in Scranton, also factors into the overall accessibility equation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Lakewood are limited. The Wayne County Transportation Authority (WCTA) provides some services, but their routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for the needs of COPD patients. Route availability and frequency should be carefully examined. The WCTA's routes are subject to change and may not always align with the appointment schedules of healthcare providers.

The WCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations often associated with COPD. However, the availability of these vehicles and the overall coverage of the service area need to be verified. The WCTA's route 102, which runs along the US-6 corridor, might offer some access to healthcare facilities in Honesdale, but the frequency of service should be investigated.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Mixed Bag**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lakewood area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for individuals on fixed incomes, a common reality for many COPD patients.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with medical conditions, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare are potential options, but their coverage area and the types of services offered must be verified. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility devices and oxygen tanks, which can be invaluable for COPD patients. However, eligibility requirements and insurance coverage are crucial factors to consider.

**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The COPD Score for Lakewood, PA (18439), reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the availability of personal vehicles provides a degree of independence, the reliance on driving can be challenging for individuals with breathing difficulties. The limited public transit options and the fluctuating reliability of ride-sharing services further complicate the picture.

Medical transport services offer a more tailored solution, but their accessibility and affordability need to be carefully evaluated. The drive times to healthcare facilities, especially those offering specialized care, are a significant consideration, as is the potential for exacerbations during travel.

For individuals considering moving to Lakewood, the COPD Score highlights the importance of carefully assessing their transportation needs and the availability of appropriate healthcare services. This includes researching the specific routes and schedules of the WCTA, evaluating the reliability of ride-sharing services, and exploring the potential of medical transport options.

**Recommendations for Enhancing Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access for COPD patients in Lakewood requires a multi-pronged approach. Expanding the WCTA's routes and service frequency, particularly to connect residents with healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Promoting the availability and awareness of ride-sharing services, potentially through partnerships with local healthcare providers, could also improve access.

Advocating for increased medical transport options and ensuring their affordability is crucial. Furthermore, exploring the potential for telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could reduce the need for frequent travel.

The COPD Score for Lakewood is not merely a static assessment; it is a dynamic reflection of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, residents, healthcare providers, and policymakers can work together to create a more supportive environment for individuals managing COPD, ensuring they receive the timely and appropriate care they need. This detailed analysis is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Lakewood, particularly those with respiratory concerns.