18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 18465, Thompson, Pennsylvania is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.41 percent of residents in 18465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnes-Kasson County Hospital with a distance of 7.54 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Thompson, PA (ZIP Code 18465)

The crisp mountain air of Thompson, Pennsylvania, offers a certain allure, a haven for those seeking respite from the urban sprawl. Yet, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity of this rural landscape presents a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to accessing vital healthcare. This write-up delves into the realities of transportation options in ZIP code 18465, providing a "COPD Score" assessment, a critical lens through which to evaluate the feasibility of living in this community, especially for those with respiratory conditions. We'll examine drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation, painting a vivid picture of healthcare access in Thompson.

The COPD Score isn’t a formal medical instrument, but rather a practical framework for assessing the accessibility of healthcare services, considering the limitations imposed by COPD. Factors like the distance to specialists, the availability of reliable transportation, and the ease of navigating these systems are paramount. The higher the score, the more accessible healthcare becomes, and the more favorable the environment for individuals with COPD.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many residents of Thompson, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located outside of the immediate vicinity, making reliable car transportation a necessity. The journey to healthcare appointments often involves navigating the winding roads and varying terrain of the region.

The closest hospital, Wayne Memorial Hospital in Honesdale, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive from the center of Thompson. This route typically involves traveling south on PA-171, a two-lane road that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. The road conditions are generally good, but winter weather can pose a significant challenge, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of accidents.

For specialized care, such as pulmonology or respiratory therapy, patients may need to travel further afield. Scranton, approximately an hour's drive via I-81 South, offers a wider array of medical specialists and facilities, including Geisinger Commonwealth Health. This journey, while longer, is generally on well-maintained highways, providing a smoother ride. However, the potential for traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, should be factored in. Other options include the drive to Binghamton, NY, which can take up to an hour and 30 minutes via I-81 North.

**Public Transit: A Limited Resource**

Public transportation options in Thompson are extremely limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant hurdle for individuals with COPD who may not be able to drive or who may find driving challenging due to their condition.

The Lackawanna County Transit System (LCTS) provides some limited service in the surrounding areas, but its routes do not directly service Thompson. The closest LCTS routes would require a transfer or a long walk, making them impractical for most residents. Furthermore, the frequency of service on these routes is often low, and the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles may be limited.

The absence of reliable public transit underscores the dependence on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options for accessing healthcare. This lack of accessibility can exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with COPD, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments and a decline in overall health.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

In the absence of robust public transit, ride-sharing services and medical transport providers offer alternative solutions for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed, especially in rural areas like Thompson. The availability of drivers may be limited, and wait times could be significant. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for some individuals, particularly those on fixed incomes.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance companies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services are typically equipped with trained personnel and vehicles designed to accommodate patients with mobility limitations or medical equipment. However, these services often require advance booking and can be expensive.

**Medical Transport Brands in the Region**

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including:

* **Valley Ambulance:** Offers both emergency and non-emergency transport services, including stretcher and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **TransCare Ambulance:** Provides ambulance services, including advanced life support and basic life support.
* **Care Ride:** A non-emergency medical transportation company offering wheelchair and ambulatory services.

The availability and cost of these services should be carefully considered when assessing the feasibility of living in Thompson for individuals with COPD.

**The COPD Score: Assessing Healthcare Access in Thompson**

Based on the factors discussed above, the COPD Score for Thompson, PA (18465) would be considered moderate. While drive times to hospitals and some specialized care are manageable, the lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services present significant challenges.

The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration when moving to Thompson, especially for individuals with COPD. Those who rely on others for transportation or who have limited financial resources may find it difficult to access the healthcare they need.

**Recommendations for Individuals with COPD Considering a Move to Thompson**

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Thompson, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate the need for regular transportation to healthcare appointments and factor in the cost and availability of transportation options.
* **Research Medical Transport Providers:** Investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services in the area and establish a relationship with a reliable provider.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Prioritize living in areas with easy access to main roads and highways to minimize drive times to healthcare facilities.
* **Explore Support Networks:** Identify and connect with local support groups or community organizations that may offer transportation assistance or other resources.
* **Plan for Winter Weather:** Be prepared for the potential challenges of winter weather and its impact on transportation.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Thompson**

Thompson, with its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere, may be an appealing destination for many. However, for individuals with COPD, the challenges of accessing healthcare must be carefully considered. By understanding the limitations of transportation options, planning for potential obstacles, and utilizing available resources, individuals with COPD can navigate the healthcare landscape in Thompson and maintain their health and well-being. The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the feasibility of living in this community, ensuring that individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and quality of life.