43734, Duncan Falls, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43734, Duncan Falls, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.97 percent of residents in 43734 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 7.27 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Duncan Falls, Ohio (ZIP Code 43734)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), access to timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive analysis of transportation options available within ZIP Code 43734 (Duncan Falls, Ohio) to facilitate healthcare access, offering a “COPD Score” assessment based on various factors. This information is particularly valuable for prospective residents considering moving to Duncan Falls, ensuring they can maintain their health and well-being. The goal is to illuminate the landscape of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, highlighting their suitability for individuals with COPD.

The COPD Score, in this context, is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment. It considers factors like drive times, accessibility of public transit, availability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. Each element is evaluated to understand its potential impact on individuals with COPD, who often face mobility challenges and require frequent medical appointments. We will delve into the specifics of each transportation modality, providing insights into its practicality and suitability for those managing COPD.

**Personal Vehicle and Drive Times:**

The primary mode of transportation in Duncan Falls and the surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. The ability to drive oneself, or be driven by a caregiver, offers the greatest flexibility and control over travel schedules. However, drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the COPD Score assessment.

The closest significant healthcare hub is Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, approximately 15 miles from Duncan Falls. The most direct route involves taking State Route 146 East, followed by a brief stint on Interstate 70 East. Under normal traffic conditions, this journey typically takes around 20-25 minutes. This is a reasonable commute, offering relatively quick access to comprehensive medical services.

Another option is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center in Cambridge, approximately 27 miles from Duncan Falls. The most direct route involves taking State Route 146 East, then onto Interstate 77 South. This trip will take approximately 35-40 minutes, assuming normal traffic. This longer drive time might pose a challenge for individuals with COPD, especially during flare-ups or when requiring frequent appointments.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are available in Zanesville and Cambridge. These may offer more convenient options for routine check-ups and follow-up appointments, reducing the overall travel burden. The availability of these local options positively impacts the COPD Score.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in the Duncan Falls area are limited, posing a significant challenge for individuals with COPD who may not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive. The Muskingum County Transit System (MCTS) provides some service, but its routes and schedules are not always conducive to healthcare access.

MCTS primarily operates demand-response services, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This can be challenging for individuals with COPD who may experience sudden exacerbations or require unscheduled medical attention. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial. MCTS is required by law to provide accessible services, including vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the system. However, the frequency and availability of these accessible vehicles should be verified.

The MCTS website and local information sources should be consulted for specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA accessibility information. The lack of readily available public transit options significantly impacts the COPD Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to personal transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in Duncan Falls and the surrounding areas may be limited. The presence of these services is crucial for providing on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, especially for those who cannot drive or rely on public transit.

The COPD Score is positively impacted by the presence of ride-sharing services, as they offer a more flexible and convenient alternative to traditional transportation options. However, their reliability and availability should be assessed based on local user reviews and availability.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, are another essential consideration. These services often provide transportation to and from medical appointments, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including MedStar Ambulance and other private medical transport companies. The availability of these services significantly enhances the COPD Score, as they provide a specialized and reliable transportation solution for individuals with COPD. These companies should be researched to understand their service areas, costs, and specific accommodations for individuals with respiratory conditions.

**Overall COPD Score and Considerations for Moving to Duncan Falls:**

The COPD Score for Duncan Falls, Ohio (ZIP Code 43734) reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Zanesville offers relatively short drive times, the limited public transit options and potential scarcity of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges. The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial lifeline for individuals with COPD.

For individuals considering moving to Duncan Falls, careful consideration of transportation needs is essential. Access to a personal vehicle or a reliable caregiver is highly advantageous. Researching the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers is crucial. Contacting MCTS to understand its services and ADA accessibility is also highly recommended.

The COPD Score can be improved by increasing access to reliable transportation options. The availability of ride-sharing services, expansion of public transit routes, and the presence of robust medical transport services all contribute to a more favorable environment for individuals with COPD. Prospective residents should prioritize these factors when assessing the suitability of Duncan Falls as a place to live.