18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 18817, East Smithfield, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

94.74 percent of residents in 18817 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Troy Community Hospital with a distance of 8.39 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in East Smithfield (ZIP Code 18817)

Considering a move to East Smithfield, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18817), and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? Understanding the nuances of healthcare access is paramount. This assessment provides a "COPD Score" – a qualitative evaluation of transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for managing this respiratory condition. The score will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive perspective on healthcare accessibility.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in East Smithfield is the proximity to Guthrie Troy Community Hospital, approximately 12 miles away. This translates to a drive of roughly 20-25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The primary route is via **Pennsylvania Route 14 (PA-14)**, a two-lane highway, winding through the scenic countryside. While generally smooth, be mindful of potential delays due to seasonal weather, especially during winter.

For those residing in the more remote corners of the ZIP code, the journey might involve traversing local roads such as **Smithfield Road** and **Mosherville Road**, adding extra minutes to the commute. These roads, while charming, can be narrow and winding, potentially challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing respiratory distress.

Public transportation options in East Smithfield are limited. The primary provider is the **Bradford County Transportation Authority (BCTA)**, offering demand-response services. While BCTA provides curb-to-curb service, it is not a fixed-route system. This means scheduling rides in advance is essential, which can be a significant hurdle for those with unpredictable health needs. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is a critical consideration, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility devices. Confirming the ADA features of the vehicle and the availability of oxygen support is crucial.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may have limited presence in this rural area. Availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments might prove unreliable. Confirming the availability of these services before relocating is highly recommended.

Medical transport services are a vital lifeline for many COPD patients. Several providers operate within the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. These services offer specialized transport, including oxygen support and trained medical personnel. Researching the specific services available in the area, including their pricing, insurance coverage, and availability, is essential.

The "COPD Score" for East Smithfield is influenced by the limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing. While drive times to Guthrie Troy Community Hospital are relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged medical transport is high. This can present challenges for individuals with COPD, especially those experiencing exacerbations or mobility issues.

Consider the following factors when evaluating the COPD Score:

* **Distance to Healthcare:** The proximity to Guthrie Troy Community Hospital is a positive factor.
* **Transportation Options:** The limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges.
* **Accessibility:** Confirming ADA-compliant transportation options is vital.
* **Medical Transport:** Researching and securing reliable medical transport services is crucial.
* **Weather Conditions:** Seasonal weather can impact travel times and transportation availability.

Moving to a new location with a chronic respiratory condition requires careful planning. East Smithfield, while offering a tranquil environment, presents transportation challenges that must be addressed. Prioritizing healthcare access is vital.

Before relocating, thoroughly research the availability of transportation options and medical services. Contact BCTA to understand their services and ADA compliance. Investigate the presence of ride-sharing services and their reliability. Contact local medical transport providers to assess their services and insurance coverage.

The "COPD Score" for East Smithfield is influenced by the limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing. While drive times to Guthrie Troy Community Hospital are relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged medical transport is high. This can present challenges for individuals with COPD, especially those experiencing exacerbations or mobility issues.

**Recommendations:**

1. **Pre-arrange medical transport:** Establish a relationship with a reliable medical transport provider before moving.
2. **Explore BCTA:** Familiarize yourself with BCTA's services and ADA features.
3. **Assess ride-sharing availability:** Confirm the presence and reliability of ride-sharing services.
4. **Consider proximity to healthcare:** Choose a residence within a reasonable distance of Guthrie Troy Community Hospital.
5. **Plan for emergencies:** Develop a contingency plan for transportation during exacerbations or emergencies.

By carefully considering these factors and proactively planning for transportation needs, individuals with COPD can successfully navigate healthcare access in East Smithfield. The "COPD Score" is not a definitive rating but a guide to help make an informed decision about moving to East Smithfield. Prioritizing healthcare access is vital.