19940, Delmar, Delaware COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 19940, Delmar, Delaware is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.05 percent of residents in 19940 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Tidalhealth Nanticoke, Inc. with a distance of 11.86 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Delmar, DE (ZIP Code 19940)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), reliable and timely access to healthcare is paramount. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of Delmar, Delaware (ZIP Code 19940), focusing on the practicalities of commuting to healthcare providers. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, all crucial elements in determining healthcare access for those considering moving to Delmar.

The assessment aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by COPD patients in this specific geographic area. It highlights the critical role transportation plays in maintaining quality of life and managing this chronic respiratory condition. Understanding these factors is essential for anyone seeking to relocate to Delmar and ensure their healthcare needs can be effectively met.

The primary healthcare facilities serving Delmar residents include TidalHealth Nanticoke Hospital in Seaford, Delaware, and Peninsula Regional Medical Center in Salisbury, Maryland. Both offer comprehensive pulmonary services, including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and specialized COPD programs. The distance to these facilities, and the ease of reaching them, is a crucial determinant of the COPD Score.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in Delmar. The primary routes to access healthcare are via US Route 13, a major north-south artery, and Delaware Route 54, which provides east-west connectivity. The drive to TidalHealth Nanticoke Hospital, located approximately 10 miles north of Delmar, typically takes 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. The journey involves a straightforward drive on US Route 13.

Reaching Peninsula Regional Medical Center, located roughly 15 miles southwest of Delmar, requires a drive of approximately 25-35 minutes, again, depending on traffic. This route involves navigating US Route 13 south into Maryland and then following US Route 50. Rush hour, particularly in the Salisbury area, can significantly extend these travel times. The reliability of these drive times is a critical factor in the COPD Score, as unpredictable delays can be detrimental to patients requiring urgent care or scheduled appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in Delmar and surrounding areas. DART First State, Delaware's public transit agency, provides bus service, but the routes and frequency are not extensive. Route 303, which runs along US Route 13, offers service through Delmar. However, the frequency of the bus is typically hourly, and the routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of the buses is a crucial consideration for COPD patients who may have mobility limitations or require assistance. DART First State buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features, but the availability of these features and the overall suitability of public transit for individuals with respiratory conditions needs careful evaluation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Delmar, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or routine medical visits. The reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services directly impact the COPD Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. These services, such as ambulance services or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals who may require assistance or have mobility limitations. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate medical equipment.

The availability and cost of these specialized services are vital components of the COPD Score, as they provide a crucial safety net for patients who cannot drive or utilize other transportation options. The ability to access these services quickly and reliably is a critical factor in ensuring timely access to healthcare.

The COPD Score for Delmar, DE (ZIP Code 19940) is significantly influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles for healthcare access. While the drive times to key healthcare facilities are relatively manageable, the lack of robust public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but the cost and accessibility of these services must be carefully considered.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Delmar, careful planning is essential. Assessing the proximity of healthcare providers, evaluating the reliability of personal transportation, and understanding the availability and cost of alternative transportation options are all critical steps. The COPD Score, in essence, reflects the ease with which individuals can access the healthcare they need, thereby influencing their quality of life and the effective management of their condition.

The overall COPD Score for Delmar, DE, would be considered moderate. While the drive times to key healthcare facilities are relatively short, the limited public transit options and the potential for unreliable ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation solutions. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net, but the cost and accessibility of these services must be carefully considered.

The information presented in this assessment should not be considered medical advice. Individuals with COPD should consult with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized plan for managing their condition and ensuring reliable access to healthcare. This assessment provides a framework for understanding the transportation landscape and its implications for healthcare access in Delmar, DE (ZIP Code 19940).