43019, Fredericktown, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43019, Fredericktown, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.46 percent of residents in 43019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Knox Community Hospital with a distance of 9.50 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Fredericktown, Ohio (ZIP Code 43019)**

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape in Fredericktown, Ohio (ZIP Code 43019), evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. We will explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a COPD Score reflecting the accessibility of healthcare within this community. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Fredericktown or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

The primary consideration for many is the drive time to medical facilities. In Fredericktown, the closest major healthcare providers are located in Mount Vernon, approximately 15 miles south. Driving along **State Route 95** is the most direct route, typically taking around 20-25 minutes, assuming moderate traffic conditions. This route offers a generally smooth journey, though potential delays could arise due to seasonal weather or minor road construction.

Alternatively, traveling south via **State Route 13** presents a slightly longer drive, about 25-30 minutes. This route, while less direct, can offer an alternative if there are any unforeseen issues on Route 95. Both routes are primarily rural, with limited traffic congestion outside of peak commuting hours. This makes the drive relatively predictable for those seeking to attend appointments.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Knox Area Transit (KAT) provides services within Knox County, but its routes and schedules may not be ideal for frequent medical appointments. KAT does not have a dedicated route specifically serving Fredericktown to Mount Vernon. Residents would need to arrange for a ride to a KAT stop, which could add significant time and complexity to the journey.

KAT's ADA-accessible vehicles are available for individuals with disabilities. However, the need to book in advance and the potential for longer travel times due to route planning make this a less-than-ideal solution for those with COPD, who may require immediate access to healthcare. The reliance on KAT for transportation significantly impacts healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Fredericktown area. However, their reliability and availability can be variable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. While these services offer a degree of flexibility, they may not be a consistently dependable solution for those with COPD.

Medical transportation services are another avenue to explore. Several companies specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff. However, these services typically come with a higher price tag, and availability may be limited, requiring advance booking.

The absence of readily available public transportation and the reliance on potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical transport services create a challenge for residents with COPD. The drive times, while manageable, still require the individual to be able to drive or have access to a driver.

The topography of Fredericktown, with its rolling hills and rural roads, also presents potential challenges. Winter weather conditions, including snow and ice, can significantly impact drive times and make travel hazardous. This is a crucial factor for those with COPD, as exposure to cold air can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Fredericktown itself is limited. While there may be primary care physicians and urgent care clinics, specialized pulmonary care and hospital services require travel to Mount Vernon or further afield. This necessitates careful planning and coordination of transportation.

The healthcare access landscape in Fredericktown is not without its strengths. The relatively short drive times to Mount Vernon are a positive factor. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides additional options. The community's size and rural setting contribute to a sense of peace and quiet, which can be beneficial for those with respiratory conditions.

However, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services create significant barriers to healthcare access. The lack of specialized pulmonary care within Fredericktown adds another layer of complexity.

The COPD Score for Fredericktown, Ohio (ZIP Code 43019) reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While the drive times to Mount Vernon are reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive transportation options presents challenges for those with COPD. The absence of readily available public transit and the potential for weather-related disruptions further complicate matters.

For individuals considering moving to Fredericktown, it is essential to carefully assess their transportation needs and financial resources. Those with COPD should prioritize proximity to healthcare providers, and assess their ability to drive, or the availability of reliable and affordable transportation alternatives.

The community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access, such as expanding public transportation options, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized fares for medical appointments, or attracting specialized pulmonary care providers to the area. These improvements would significantly enhance the quality of life for residents with COPD and improve the community’s healthcare access.

Ultimately, the COPD Score for Fredericktown highlights the importance of proactive planning and careful consideration of transportation needs for individuals managing this chronic respiratory condition. The ability to access timely and reliable healthcare is critical for managing COPD and maintaining a good quality of life. The information provided in this write-up is a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access in Fredericktown.