43457, Risingsun, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43457, Risingsun, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.43 percent of residents in 43457 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 14.65 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Risingsun, Ohio (ZIP Code 43457)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), access to timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This analysis, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape of Risingsun, Ohio (ZIP Code 43457), evaluating the ease with which residents can reach vital medical appointments. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, all crucial elements influencing healthcare access for those with COPD. The aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities for those considering moving to Risingsun or currently residing within the area.

The foundation of healthcare access in Risingsun, and a significant factor in this COPD Score, lies in the ability to navigate the local road network. Driving is the primary mode of transportation for most residents. For individuals living in Risingsun, the primary route to healthcare facilities in nearby cities such as Bowling Green and Findlay is generally via Ohio State Route 199. This state route offers a direct connection, though traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can impact travel times.

Another key route is Ohio State Route 65, which can provide alternative access to Bowling Green and other surrounding areas. The condition of these roads, including the presence of potholes or construction, can further affect travel times and potentially exacerbate breathing difficulties for those with COPD. The COPD Score considers the quality of these roads as a factor.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) provides demand-response transportation services within Wood County, including Risingsun. These services, while offering a lifeline for some, require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially during peak demand times. The WCCOA vehicles may have ADA-accessible features, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can utilize the service.

The COPD Score recognizes the limitations of public transit in this area, particularly the lack of fixed-route bus services. This necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or specialized medical transport. The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Risingsun is variable. While these services may be present, their availability can be affected by driver availability and demand, leading to longer wait times, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Specialized medical transport services are another critical component of the COPD Score. These services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from appointments. These services are typically more expensive than other transportation options, but they offer a higher level of care and are often equipped to accommodate individuals with oxygen needs or other medical requirements.

The COPD Score also considers the distance to the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics. The closest hospitals with comprehensive respiratory care are in Bowling Green, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via Route 199, and Findlay, which is about a 30-45 minute drive. The distance to these facilities, coupled with potential traffic delays, can significantly impact the timeliness of medical care for those with COPD.

The COPD Score also takes into account the availability of pharmacies in Risingsun and the surrounding areas. Access to medication is crucial for managing COPD, and the ability to quickly and easily obtain prescriptions is a significant factor in healthcare access. The presence of local pharmacies and their operating hours are considered in the overall score.

The COPD Score, therefore, is not just about the distance to healthcare facilities but also about the reliability and accessibility of the transportation options available. The limited public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the reliance on personal vehicles create challenges for those with COPD. The COPD Score assesses the degree to which these challenges are mitigated by factors such as road quality, the availability of medical transport services, and the proximity of pharmacies.

Moving to Risingsun with COPD necessitates careful consideration of these transportation factors. Individuals should assess their ability to drive or arrange for reliable transportation to medical appointments. They should also investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services and familiarize themselves with the WCCOA services.

The COPD Score for Risingsun, Ohio, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access, with challenges primarily related to limited public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing. The overall score is influenced by the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of medical transport services, and the quality of the road network.

The COPD Score is a dynamic measure, and its value can change over time. Improvements in public transit, the expansion of ride-sharing services, or the introduction of new medical transport providers could all lead to an increase in the score, improving healthcare access for residents of Risingsun with COPD. Conversely, road construction, increased traffic congestion, or the closure of local pharmacies could negatively impact the score.

In conclusion, the COPD Score for Risingsun, Ohio, provides a valuable framework for understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities faced by individuals with COPD. The score highlights the importance of careful planning, proactive transportation arrangements, and a thorough understanding of the available resources. For those considering moving to Risingsun, or for current residents managing their COPD, this information is essential for ensuring timely and effective healthcare access.