18455, Preston Park, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 18455, Preston Park, Pennsylvania is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.56 percent of residents in 18455 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 13.12 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Preston Park (ZIP Code 18455)

Relocating to Preston Park, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18455), presents a unique set of considerations, particularly for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This analysis, a "COPD Score" write-up, focuses on the accessibility of healthcare services, evaluating transportation options and their impact on timely medical attention. The ultimate goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how easily a resident with COPD can access necessary care within this specific geographic area.

Preston Park, a serene community nestled in northeastern Pennsylvania, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural setting significantly influences the availability and convenience of transportation options, especially critical for individuals with COPD. This respiratory condition often necessitates frequent medical appointments, including pulmonary rehabilitation, medication refills, and emergency care. Understanding the transportation landscape becomes paramount in ensuring consistent and timely healthcare access.

The primary mode of transportation in Preston Park is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The surrounding roadways, including **Route 6**, the main artery, and **Route 370**, provide the most direct routes to larger towns and medical facilities. However, driving in this region can be challenging during inclement weather, especially winter months, potentially delaying or hindering access to healthcare. The condition of these roads, particularly in areas with less frequent maintenance, can also pose difficulties for those with mobility limitations or breathing difficulties.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial factor. The closest hospital, Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via **Route 6**. This timeframe assumes normal traffic conditions and favorable weather. Specialized pulmonary care, including pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, is available at Wayne Memorial Hospital. However, the distance and potential delays underscore the importance of planning and preparedness.

Additional options for specialist care may necessitate travel to Scranton, a larger city approximately an hour’s drive away, primarily via **Interstate 84** and **Interstate 380**. This extended travel time significantly impacts the COPD Score, increasing the risk of delayed care, particularly during emergencies. The availability of oxygen and other necessary medical equipment within a personal vehicle is another crucial consideration for individuals with COPD.

Public transportation options are limited in Preston Park. The lack of a robust public transit system poses a considerable challenge for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their condition. While the Lackawanna County Transportation Authority (LCTA) provides some service in the surrounding areas, its reach into Preston Park is minimal. The LCTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, but the routes and schedules might not align with medical appointment times.

The absence of a reliable public transit system highlights the dependence on alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in rural locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are another option. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services provide a valuable resource, they can be expensive and require advance booking. Researching local medical transport providers, such as Care Ride or local ambulance companies, is crucial for residents with COPD.

The "COPD Score" for Preston Park considers these factors. The score reflects the ease or difficulty a resident with COPD faces in accessing timely and appropriate healthcare. The score incorporates drive times, the availability of public transit, the reliability of ride-sharing, and the cost and availability of medical transportation services. A low score indicates limited access, while a high score signifies easier access.

For individuals with COPD, the score in Preston Park is likely to be moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related delays lower the score. The limited public transit and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transport further impact the score. Careful planning, including pre-booking transportation, establishing relationships with local medical providers, and having a contingency plan for inclement weather, is essential.

Moving to Preston Park requires a proactive approach to healthcare access. Individuals with COPD should thoroughly investigate the availability of home healthcare services, which can reduce the need for frequent travel. Exploring telehealth options, such as virtual doctor appointments, can also improve healthcare access and reduce the burden of transportation.

Living in Preston Park offers a tranquil lifestyle, but it also demands careful consideration of healthcare accessibility. This "COPD Score" write-up provides a framework for evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on individuals with COPD. By understanding the available options, proactively planning for transportation, and utilizing available resources, residents can ensure they receive the necessary medical care while enjoying the benefits of living in this beautiful community.