43164, Williamsport, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43164, Williamsport, Ohio is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.80 percent of residents in 43164 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adena Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 16.93 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Williamsport, Ohio (ZIP Code 43164)

The ability to access healthcare is paramount, particularly for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within ZIP code 43164 (Williamsport, Ohio), aiming to provide a "COPD Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical appointments. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transportation services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Williamsport, especially those with respiratory conditions.

Williamsport, a small village in Pickaway County, presents a unique transportation challenge. Rural settings often lack the robust public transit and readily available ride-sharing services found in urban areas. Therefore, personal vehicle reliance is significant. The primary route for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Williamsport involves navigating the local roadways and connecting to larger highways.

Drive times are a critical factor. The closest major healthcare facilities are in Circleville, approximately 15 miles northeast, and in Washington Court House, roughly 20 miles southwest. Reaching Circleville typically involves traveling along **State Route 56** and then **U.S. Route 23**. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, takes around 20-30 minutes. Washington Court House is accessible via **State Route 38** and then **U.S. Route 35**, a journey that can take 25-35 minutes. Traffic, especially during peak hours, can extend these times, impacting individuals with COPD who may experience breathing difficulties.

Public transportation options are limited. The Pickaway County Transit (PCT) provides demand-response services. Residents must call in advance to schedule a ride. While the PCT aims to offer door-to-door service, its availability and frequency may be restricted. There are no fixed bus routes within Williamsport. ADA accessibility is a priority for the PCT, with wheelchair-accessible vehicles available. However, the reliance on pre-arranged scheduling can present challenges for those with unpredictable medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the area, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger cities. Wait times can be longer, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could pose a financial burden. This unreliability is a significant consideration for individuals with COPD who may require frequent or urgent medical attention.

Specialized medical transportation services are another option. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. They often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services can provide a valuable lifeline, they typically come at a higher cost than standard transportation options. Researching and comparing prices from different providers is crucial.

The "COPD Score" for transportation in Williamsport, Ohio, is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles necessitates careful planning and consideration of traffic conditions. The availability of specialized medical transportation services offers a safety net, but at an added cost.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Williamsport, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Factors to consider include: the frequency of medical appointments, the ability to drive, the availability of family or friends for transportation, and the financial implications of using ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Proactive planning is key. Residents should establish relationships with local healthcare providers and familiarize themselves with the available transportation options. Having backup plans in place, such as knowing the contact information for medical transportation services, can provide peace of mind.

Furthermore, the availability of home healthcare services can significantly improve healthcare access. These services allow individuals to receive medical care in the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for frequent travel.

In conclusion, while Williamsport offers a sense of community and a more relaxed pace of life, the transportation infrastructure presents limitations for individuals with COPD. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial when assessing the suitability of Williamsport for those with respiratory conditions. The "COPD Score" reflects a need for proactive planning and reliance on personal vehicles, with limited public transit and potential challenges in accessing ride-sharing services. The availability of medical transportation and home healthcare services can mitigate some of these challenges, but at an additional cost.