43768, Old Washington, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43768, Old Washington, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.41 percent of residents in 43768 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center with a distance of 7.05 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Old Washington (ZIP Code 43768)

Old Washington, Ohio, nestled in the rolling hills of Guernsey County, offers a tranquil lifestyle for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity of rural living presents a unique set of challenges, particularly concerning **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This COPD Score analysis delves into the complexities of reaching vital medical appointments within the 43768 ZIP code, providing a comprehensive overview of available options and their associated limitations. This is especially important for anyone **moving to Old Washington** with COPD.

The COPD Score, in this context, evaluates the ease and reliability of reaching pulmonary specialists, respiratory therapists, and other essential healthcare providers. It considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. Each element is weighed based on its accessibility, frequency, and suitability for individuals with COPD, who may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and reduced mobility.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of **transportation**. The primary route to larger healthcare facilities in nearby cities like Cambridge and Zanesville involves navigating state routes and country roads. From Old Washington, the most direct route to Cambridge, home to Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center (SOORMC), is via **State Route 22**. The drive typically covers approximately 15 miles and takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but sections can be winding, and winter weather can pose significant challenges.

Reaching Zanesville, where Genesis Hospital offers specialized pulmonary care, requires a longer journey. The most common route involves taking **State Route 146** east to **Interstate 70**. This trip covers approximately 35 miles and can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, again influenced by traffic and road conditions. Both routes require careful planning, especially for individuals with COPD, who may need to factor in rest stops and potential delays. The ability to drive independently is a critical factor in healthcare access.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Significant Hurdles**

Public **transportation** options in the 43768 ZIP code are extremely limited, posing a significant barrier to **healthcare access**. Guernsey County operates a small public transit system, but its routes and schedules are infrequent and may not align with medical appointment times. Information regarding specific routes, such as route numbers, is difficult to find and requires calling the transit authority.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliability of these features and the overall accessibility of the public transit system in Guernsey County for individuals with COPD is questionable. The lack of readily available information and the limited service frequency significantly reduce the COPD Score for public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is often inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Old Washington. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedStar and First Call Ambulance, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide trained personnel and vehicles equipped to handle medical emergencies and transport patients safely. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often required. The availability of these services and the associated costs significantly impact the COPD Score.

**Assessing the COPD Score: A Multifaceted Approach**

The COPD Score for **healthcare access** in Old Washington, 43768, is influenced by several factors. The primary reliance on personal vehicles presents a moderate challenge, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential delays. The limited public transit options significantly reduce the score, while the availability of ride-sharing services offers some flexibility but is subject to availability and cost. Medical **transportation** services provide a crucial safety net but come with associated costs.

The overall score is further impacted by the distance to healthcare facilities, the availability of specialized pulmonary care, and the overall support system available to individuals with COPD. The ability to secure reliable **transportation** to and from medical appointments is paramount for managing the disease effectively.

**Recommendations: Improving Healthcare Access**

To improve the COPD Score and enhance **healthcare access** in Old Washington, several recommendations are crucial. Expanding the public transit system, increasing service frequency, and ensuring ADA compliance are essential. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Furthermore, increasing the availability of medical **transportation** options and providing financial assistance to cover the costs of these services would significantly improve the lives of individuals with COPD. Telehealth services, allowing remote consultations and monitoring, can also play a vital role in reducing the need for frequent travel.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Challenges**

Living with COPD in Old Washington presents unique challenges regarding **healthcare access**. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the limited **transportation** options and the distance to specialized medical care require careful planning and resourcefulness. By understanding the available options, their limitations, and the potential for improvement, individuals with COPD can navigate these challenges and maintain their quality of life. For those considering **moving to Old Washington**, a thorough assessment of these factors is crucial to ensure access to the necessary healthcare services. The COPD Score serves as a valuable tool for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and advocate for improved **transportation** options and **healthcare access** within the community.