19050, Lansdowne, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 19050, Lansdowne, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.64 percent of residents in 19050 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Catholic Medical Center- Mercy Fitzgerald with a distance of 0.85 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lansdowne, PA (ZIP Code 19050)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), reliable and efficient transportation to healthcare appointments is paramount. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and surrounding Lansdowne, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 19050), providing a "COPD Score" that considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for current residents and those considering moving to Lansdowne, ensuring informed decisions about healthcare access and overall quality of life.

The primary consideration for COPD patients is the proximity and ease of access to medical facilities. In Lansdowne, several healthcare providers are readily accessible. Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital, a major regional hospital, is a key destination, offering comprehensive pulmonary care. Other essential destinations include pulmonary specialists, primary care physicians, and pharmacies, all vital for managing COPD. The "COPD Score" will evaluate how easily these destinations can be reached from various points within the ZIP code.

Driving, for many, remains the preferred mode of transportation. From most locations within 19050, Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital is a relatively short drive. The primary routes involve using Baltimore Avenue, a major thoroughfare, and connecting to Lansdowne Avenue. Drive times, under normal traffic conditions, generally range from five to fifteen minutes, depending on the starting point within the ZIP code and the time of day. However, rush hour can significantly impact these times, potentially doubling or tripling the commute.

Navigating the roadways requires awareness. Baltimore Avenue, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion, particularly near intersections. Lansdowne Avenue, though less trafficked, has some areas with limited visibility. Parking at Mercy Fitzgerald Hospital is available, but can be challenging during peak hours.

Public transportation offers an alternative, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) provides several options. The Route 102 trolley line runs directly through Lansdowne, offering a convenient connection to other transportation hubs and healthcare facilities. The trolley, while generally accessible, has some stations with limited ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as elevators or ramps.

The Route 102 trolley offers a direct connection to the 69th Street Transportation Center, a major SEPTA hub. From there, passengers can connect to the Market-Frankford Line (subway), regional rail lines, and numerous bus routes, expanding healthcare access to hospitals and specialist offices located further afield. Travel times using public transit, including transfers, can range from thirty minutes to an hour or more, depending on the destination and the frequency of service.

Bus routes also serve Lansdowne, including the Route 113, which runs along Baltimore Avenue. These buses offer additional access to healthcare facilities, but can be subject to traffic delays. Accessibility features on SEPTA buses are generally well-maintained, with ramps and designated seating areas for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide another layer of transportation options. These services are readily available in Lansdowne, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments. Wait times are typically short, and the convenience of door-to-door service is a significant advantage for COPD patients. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, and availability may be limited during peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services specifically designed for patients with medical needs are also available. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Brands such as CareRide and MedRide operate in the Philadelphia area, offering door-to-door service and assistance with medical equipment. These services are often more expensive than ride-sharing but provide a higher level of care and are a valuable option for individuals with significant mobility challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Lansdowne, the transportation landscape is a critical factor. The "COPD Score" for this ZIP code is relatively favorable, due to the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services. However, the reliance on automobiles, the potential for traffic congestion, and the variability of public transit schedules must be considered.

The "COPD Score" is not a numerical value, but a qualitative assessment. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure. The score reflects the balance between convenient access to healthcare and the potential challenges faced by COPD patients.

The score recognizes that while driving is the most direct option, public transit offers a viable alternative, particularly for those who cannot drive. Ride-sharing and medical transport services further enhance access, providing flexible and specialized solutions.

The "COPD Score" for Lansdowne (ZIP Code 19050) is therefore "Good," acknowledging the strengths of the transportation network while emphasizing the need for careful planning and consideration of individual needs. Prospective residents with COPD should thoroughly assess their transportation requirements and explore all available options to ensure reliable and comfortable access to healthcare.