43536, Mark Center, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43536, Mark Center, Ohio is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.95 percent of residents in 43536 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.40 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 43536

The ability to access timely and effective healthcare is paramount, particularly for individuals managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This write-up, focusing on ZIP Code 43536, aims to provide a comprehensive COPD Score assessment, considering the critical element of transportation. This score will evaluate the ease of reaching essential medical facilities, providing insights for residents and those considering a move to the area, specifically targeting the Mark Center.

The COPD Score considers various transportation options, evaluating their accessibility, reliability, and suitability for individuals with COPD. Factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options are all scrutinized. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, offering a practical guide for navigating the system.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary thoroughfare in and around 43536 is Interstate 475, offering a crucial link to larger healthcare providers. Driving to ProMedica Flower Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The journey involves utilizing I-475 South and exiting onto Central Avenue. During peak hours, this commute can extend, making it crucial for COPD patients to factor in potential delays.

Another critical route is US-24, providing access to facilities further west. While US-24 offers a direct path, it can experience heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour. The drive to the University of Toledo Medical Center, another significant healthcare resource, via US-24 and then onto I-75 South, is typically a 25-30 minute journey. This route requires careful planning and consideration of potential traffic bottlenecks.

Local roads, such as Monclova Road and McCord Road, offer alternative routes, but their capacity is limited, and they are often subject to congestion during peak hours. These roads can be useful for accessing local clinics and pharmacies, but they are less suitable for reaching major hospitals due to their slower speeds and potential for delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit in 43536, operated by the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA), presents a more limited option for healthcare access. The primary route serving the area is Route 20, which travels along Central Avenue. While this route provides access to some medical facilities, it may not directly serve all the major hospitals or specialized clinics.

Accessibility features on TARTA buses include ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA standards. However, the frequency of Route 20, particularly during off-peak hours, might not be ideal for COPD patients who require prompt medical attention. Furthermore, the journey time on public transit is significantly longer than driving, potentially adding to the stress and discomfort for individuals with breathing difficulties.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative for transportation to healthcare appointments. Availability in 43536 is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from 5-15 minutes. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. COPD patients should factor in these costs when budgeting for their healthcare needs.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide and First Transit, are specifically designed for individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other medical equipment. While these services provide a valuable option, they often require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly during peak demand.

**Healthcare Access and the Mark Center:**

The Mark Center, a residential and commercial development within 43536, presents a unique situation. Residents of the Mark Center will benefit from proximity to local clinics and pharmacies. However, access to major hospitals, such as ProMedica Flower Hospital and the University of Toledo Medical Center, still relies on the transportation options discussed above.

The COPD Score for the Mark Center would reflect a moderate level of healthcare access. While local services are readily available, reaching specialized care and major hospitals requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers to ensure they can access the healthcare they need.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Assessment:**

The COPD Score for 43536 reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While driving provides the quickest access to major hospitals, traffic congestion and potential delays must be considered. Public transit offers a more affordable option, but its limited frequency and longer journey times may pose challenges for COPD patients. Ride-sharing services provide a convenient alternative, but the cost can be a barrier. Medical transport services offer specialized support, but availability and advance booking requirements must be taken into account.

For individuals with COPD considering a move to 43536, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Proximity to local clinics and pharmacies is a definite advantage, especially for residents of the Mark Center. However, access to specialized care and major hospitals requires careful planning and reliance on the available transportation options. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each transportation mode, COPD patients can effectively navigate the healthcare system and ensure they receive the timely and appropriate medical care they need.