19134, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 19134, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.91 percent of residents in 19134 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Christopher's Hospital For Children with a distance of 1.29 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in 19134 for Respiratory Wellness

The journey to breathe freely, especially for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), extends beyond the walls of a pulmonologist’s office. It encompasses the daily realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, forming a crucial element of a patient's overall well-being. This write-up delves into the **transportation** landscape of ZIP Code 19134 in Philadelphia, aiming to provide a "COPD Score" assessment, evaluating the ease and challenges of reaching essential **healthcare** services for those considering **moving to Philadelphia** or already residing within this community.

The 19134 ZIP Code, encompassing portions of the Frankford and Oxford Circle neighborhoods, presents a diverse terrain for **transportation**. Residents navigate a mix of residential streets, major thoroughfares, and public transit options. The COPD Score, in this context, considers the availability, accessibility, and practicality of these options for individuals with respiratory limitations.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For those who rely on personal vehicles, the primary arteries for accessing **healthcare** in 19134 include Roosevelt Boulevard (US-1), a major north-south thoroughfare, and Frankford Avenue. Travel times, however, are subject to the unpredictable nature of Philadelphia traffic. Peak hours can transform a seemingly short drive into a frustrating, lung-taxing ordeal.

Consider a hypothetical scenario: a patient residing near the intersection of Frankford Avenue and Orthodox Street needs to reach a pulmonologist at Jefferson Health’s Frankford Hospital, located at 4900 Frankford Avenue. During off-peak hours, the drive might take a mere 5-7 minutes. However, during rush hour, the same journey could stretch to 15-20 minutes or even longer, particularly when navigating the complex intersections and stop-and-go traffic prevalent on Roosevelt Boulevard. The condition of the roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can further exacerbate the physical strain on a driver, potentially impacting their breathing.

Further afield, accessing specialists at hospitals like the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) or the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital downtown requires a longer commute, often involving the Schuylkill Expressway (I-76) or I-95. These highways, while efficient in theory, can be prone to congestion, especially during the morning and evening commutes. The added stress of navigating these busy roadways can prove challenging for individuals with COPD.

**Public Transit: Navigating the SEPTA Network**

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) provides a vital lifeline for many residents of 19134, offering a network of bus routes and the Market-Frankford Line (the "El"). The accessibility of these options is paramount for **healthcare access**.

The Market-Frankford Line, with stations at Frankford Transportation Center, Arrott Transportation Center, and Margaret-Orthodox, offers a relatively quick route to Center City, where numerous **healthcare** facilities are located. However, the presence of stairs at some stations can pose a significant challenge for individuals with mobility issues or breathing difficulties. While elevators and ramps are available at select stations, their availability may not always align with a patient's immediate needs.

Several bus routes, including the 20, 56, 66, and 84, crisscross 19134, providing access to local hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. The 20 bus, for example, connects to Frankford Transportation Center, providing a link to the Market-Frankford Line and other bus routes. The 56 bus offers a direct route along Frankford Avenue. The 66 bus, running along Torresdale Avenue, provides access to the Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The 84 bus travels along Bustleton Avenue, offering a connection to the Fox Chase neighborhood.

SEPTA's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. All SEPTA buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. However, the availability of accessible features on the Market-Frankford Line varies by station. The frequency of service, particularly during off-peak hours, can also impact the convenience and practicality of public transit for COPD patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide door-to-door **transportation**, potentially reducing the physical exertion required for travel. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent **healthcare** appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as Medical Transportation Management (MTM) and LogistiCare, are specifically designed to provide non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, catering to the specific needs of individuals with disabilities or medical conditions. These options can be particularly valuable for patients who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to use public transit. However, availability and eligibility requirements vary depending on insurance coverage and the specific service.

**The COPD Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "COPD Score" for 19134 is not a single number but a holistic evaluation of the **transportation** landscape. It acknowledges the challenges and opportunities for individuals with COPD seeking **healthcare access**.

* **Driving:** While convenient, driving is subject to traffic congestion and parking challenges. The stress of driving and the potential for delays can negatively impact respiratory health.
* **Public Transit:** SEPTA offers a cost-effective option, but accessibility varies by station and route. The physical exertion of navigating stairs and the potential for crowded conditions can pose challenges.
* **Ride-Share:** Offers convenience but can be costly.
* **Medical Transport:** Provides specialized assistance but may be subject to eligibility requirements and insurance coverage.

The score should also consider the proximity of **healthcare** facilities to residential areas. Residents closer to Frankford Hospital or local clinics will have a lower "transportation burden" than those who need to travel further afield.

**Moving to Philadelphia** with COPD requires careful consideration of **transportation** options. 19134, with its mix of public transit, driving routes, and ride-share services, presents both opportunities and challenges. The "COPD Score" for this area should be viewed as a dynamic assessment, constantly evolving as new services emerge and infrastructure changes. It is crucial for individuals with COPD to thoroughly research their **transportation** options, considering their personal needs and financial constraints, to ensure they can access the **healthcare** they require to manage their condition and maintain their quality of life.