43738, Fultonham, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43738, Fultonham, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

24.53 percent of residents in 43738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 10.77 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fultonham, Ohio (ZIP Code 43738)

Fultonham, Ohio, nestled in the rolling hills of Muskingum County, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The very nature of COPD, with its debilitating impact on breathing, demands swift and reliable access to healthcare. This write-up delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available to residents of ZIP code 43738, examining their suitability for those with COPD and culminating in a COPD Score assessment. The aim is to provide a clear understanding of **healthcare access** for anyone considering **moving to Fultonham**, particularly those managing respiratory conditions.

The primary mode of transportation in Fultonham and the surrounding area is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Driving is essential, especially considering the limited public transit options. Accessing healthcare facilities in the region necessitates navigating a network of roads. From Fultonham, you’ll likely embark on State Route 22, a vital artery connecting the village to larger towns. Depending on the destination, you might then transition to State Route 146, providing access to Zanesville, or State Route 60, leading to the south. Interstate 70, a major east-west thoroughfare, is a significant factor, with the nearest access point several miles away.

Drive times are crucial. For routine appointments, the trip to Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, a major healthcare provider, is typically a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific location within Zanesville. This drive involves State Route 146. Urgent care facilities, such as those in Zanesville, are also accessible within this timeframe. Specialized pulmonary care, however, may require travel to Columbus, approximately an hour and a half away via I-70, which adds a significant challenge for individuals with COPD.

Public transportation options are limited. The Muskingum County Transit Authority (MCTA) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service operates within Muskingum County, including Fultonham. While MCTA is designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility limitations and oxygen tanks, the need for pre-planning and potential wait times can pose a significant hurdle for those experiencing acute COPD exacerbations. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is a positive aspect, but the overall accessibility is constrained by the demand-response nature of the service. Route numbers aren’t applicable as the service is point-to-point.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Zanesville, but their presence in Fultonham is less consistent. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability presents a serious concern for those requiring immediate medical attention or scheduled appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, potentially adding to the financial burden of managing COPD.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments, are another option. Several providers serve the area, including private ambulance companies and specialized medical transport services. These services typically offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, they often come with higher costs than other forms of transportation, and advance booking is usually required. The specific brands operating in the area include local ambulance services and potentially regional medical transport providers, which can be found by searching online or asking your primary care physician.

The physical environment also impacts accessibility. Fultonham and the surrounding area have a rural character, with varying road conditions and terrain. Navigating uneven sidewalks, dealing with weather-related delays, and the potential for long distances between parking and building entrances can all present challenges for individuals with COPD. The availability of accessible parking and building entrances is crucial, as is the need for clear pathways free of obstacles.

Considering all these factors, a COPD Score can be assigned to assess the overall accessibility of healthcare for residents of Fultonham. This score will be based on a scale, with higher scores indicating better access. The factors considered include drive times, public transit reliability, ride-sharing availability, medical transport options, and environmental factors.

**COPD Score Assessment for Fultonham (ZIP Code 43738):**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate. While routine appointments in Zanesville are accessible within a reasonable timeframe, specialized care in Columbus requires a longer journey.
* **Public Transit:** Limited. The MCTA offers a demand-response service, but its limitations in terms of scheduling and potential wait times are significant.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Inconsistent. Availability is not guaranteed, particularly in Fultonham.
* **Medical Transport:** Available. Several options exist, but cost and advance booking are considerations.
* **Environmental Factors:** Moderate. Rural environment with potential for challenging road conditions and varying accessibility.

**Overall COPD Score:**

Based on these factors, the COPD Score for Fultonham (43738) is considered **moderate**. While healthcare access is possible, it is not without its challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options require careful planning and consideration. Individuals with COPD considering moving to Fultonham should carefully assess their transportation needs and ensure they have a reliable plan for accessing healthcare. The availability of medical transport services provides a valuable safety net, but the associated costs and scheduling requirements must be factored in. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and transportation services, is essential for managing COPD effectively in this rural setting.