19967, Millville, Delaware COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 19967, Millville, Delaware is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.39 percent of residents in 19967 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Beebe Medical Center with a distance of 15.76 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 19967 (Millville, Delaware)**

Considering a move to Millville, Delaware (ZIP Code 19967), and managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)? Understanding healthcare access is paramount. This assessment focuses on transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for managing COPD, which necessitates frequent appointments and potential emergency visits. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a "COPD Score" reflecting the ease of healthcare access.

The primary healthcare provider for Millville residents is Beebe Healthcare, with its main campus in Lewes, approximately 15 miles away. The most direct route utilizes **Delaware Route 1 (DE-1)**, a major north-south highway. During off-peak hours, the drive is typically 25-30 minutes. However, traffic congestion, particularly during summer weekends, can significantly extend this time, potentially exceeding an hour. The alternative route involves **U.S. Route 113 (US-113)**, a slower road, adding 10-15 minutes to the journey.

For individuals without personal vehicles, public transportation options exist, though they are limited. **DART First State**, Delaware's public transit system, provides bus service. Route 305, the primary route serving Millville, connects to Lewes, but frequency is limited, often running hourly or less frequently, especially on weekends. Travel time on Route 305 to Beebe Healthcare can be lengthy, potentially exceeding an hour, factoring in transfers and wait times. ADA accessibility is a feature on DART buses, providing accommodations for individuals with mobility challenges, a critical consideration for COPD patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. However, availability and pricing fluctuate, especially during peak demand periods. The cost of a ride to Lewes can be substantial, particularly if multiple trips are required each month. While convenient, ride-sharing's reliability is not always guaranteed, making it a less dependable option for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services are available for individuals with specific needs. These services, such as MedStar, offer specialized transportation for patients requiring medical assistance during transit. While these services provide a vital lifeline, they often come with higher costs and require advance booking. This is an essential consideration for those with COPD, who may experience sudden exacerbations requiring immediate transport.

The "COPD Score" for transportation access in Millville (ZIP Code 19967) reflects a moderate level of accessibility. While Beebe Healthcare is relatively close, the reliance on personal vehicles or limited public transit options presents challenges. Traffic congestion on DE-1 during peak seasons can significantly impact drive times, adding stress for those with COPD. Public transit, though ADA accessible, is infrequent, increasing travel time. Ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative but is subject to availability and cost fluctuations. Medical transport services provide specialized assistance but come with higher expenses.

Considering healthcare access is a critical factor for anyone, especially those managing COPD, when moving to a new area. The commute to healthcare in Millville is manageable, but it requires careful planning and consideration of the available transportation options. The score reflects a need for proactive measures, such as establishing reliable transportation plans, understanding public transit schedules, and exploring medical transport options.

**Detailed Analysis of Transportation Options**

**Driving:**

* **Primary Route:** DE-1, offers the quickest route to Beebe Healthcare in Lewes. However, traffic congestion, especially during summer months, can significantly increase travel time.
* **Alternative Route:** US-113, provides a slower but less congested option.
* **Parking:** Ample parking is available at Beebe Healthcare.

**Public Transportation (DART First State):**

* **Route 305:** Serves Millville and connects to Lewes.
* **Frequency:** Limited, with hourly or less frequent service, especially on weekends.
* **Travel Time:** Significantly longer than driving, potentially exceeding an hour.
* **ADA Accessibility:** All DART buses are ADA-compliant.
* **Stops:** Limited stops within Millville, requiring walking to bus stops.

**Ride-Sharing (Uber/Lyft):**

* **Availability:** Generally available in the area, but availability may vary.
* **Cost:** Can be expensive, especially during peak demand.
* **Reliability:** Subject to driver availability and surge pricing.
* **Convenience:** Offers door-to-door service.

**Medical Transport:**

* **Providers:** MedStar and other medical transport services are available.
* **Cost:** Typically higher than ride-sharing or public transit.
* **Booking:** Requires advance booking.
* **Specialized Assistance:** Provides medical assistance during transit.

**Additional Considerations for COPD Patients:**

* **Appointment Scheduling:** Schedule appointments during off-peak traffic hours to minimize travel time and stress.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Have a backup transportation plan in case of emergencies, including medical transport contact information.
* **Medication Management:** Ensure easy access to necessary medications during travel.
* **Oxygen Needs:** Coordinate with medical transport or ride-sharing services to accommodate oxygen requirements.
* **Weather Conditions:** Be aware of weather forecasts, as inclement weather can impact travel times and transportation availability.
* **Local Support Groups:** Connect with local COPD support groups for information and assistance.

**Conclusion**

Millville, Delaware, offers a desirable lifestyle for many, but healthcare access, specifically transportation, is a crucial factor for those managing COPD. The "COPD Score" highlights the need for careful planning and proactive measures to ensure reliable access to healthcare. While the commute to Beebe Healthcare is feasible, the limited public transit options and potential traffic congestion necessitate a comprehensive approach to transportation planning. Considering these factors will empower individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about moving to Millville and maintaining optimal health.