43773, Quaker City, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43773, Quaker City, Ohio is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.20 percent of residents in 43773 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 6.13 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Quaker City (ZIP Code 43773)

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human need, takes on particular significance for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Breathing difficulties, a hallmark of this condition, can make even short trips feel monumental. This analysis, a "COPD Score" write-up, meticulously examines transportation options within and to Quaker City, Ohio (ZIP Code 43773), considering their impact on healthcare access for those with COPD. We delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing possibilities, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to this rural community.

Quaker City, nestled in Guernsey County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting means a reliance on personal vehicles, potentially limiting access for individuals without reliable transportation or the ability to drive. The nearest hospitals and specialized pulmonary care centers are located in larger towns, necessitating longer travel times. This geographic reality underscores the importance of understanding the available transportation infrastructure and services.

The primary roadways serving Quaker City are State Route 800 and State Route 149. These routes, while scenic, can become congested during peak hours and subject to weather-related delays, particularly during winter months. Drive times to Cambridge, the county seat and home to Southeastern Med, a regional hospital, range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route primarily involves State Route 149 and then US-22. For specialized pulmonology care, patients may need to travel to Wheeling Hospital in West Virginia, a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, primarily via I-70 East. This longer distance adds complexity to healthcare access.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural environment. The Guernsey County Public Transit (GCPT) provides demand-response service within the county. While GCPT offers door-to-door service, its availability and scheduling can be a hurdle. Individuals must book rides in advance, and service may be limited on weekends and evenings. The GCPT vehicles are ADA-accessible, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the longer travel times and potential for multiple stops can be taxing for COPD patients. The lack of fixed-route bus service further complicates matters, making it difficult to predict and plan for healthcare appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in Quaker City and the surrounding areas. While these services offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, their presence is not guaranteed, and surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather could significantly increase costs. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is questionable, given the potential for driver unavailability or delays. Residents should not solely rely on these services for critical healthcare transportation.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as MedStar Ambulance, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations and medical equipment. While these services offer a higher level of care and support, they come at a cost, often not fully covered by insurance. The availability of NEMT providers in Quaker City needs to be confirmed.

The COPD Score for Quaker City reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by its transportation landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose significant barriers to healthcare access for individuals with COPD. The longer travel times to specialized care centers and the potential for weather-related delays further complicate matters.

The availability of GCPT, while offering ADA-accessible transportation, is constrained by its demand-response nature. The potential for longer travel times and scheduling limitations can be problematic for individuals with breathing difficulties. The uncertain availability of ride-sharing services and the cost of medical transport add to the complexity of healthcare access.

Moving to Quaker City requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. Individuals with COPD should assess their ability to drive, the reliability of their personal vehicle, and the availability of support from family or friends for transportation. They should familiarize themselves with the GCPT services, booking rides well in advance of appointments. They should also investigate the availability and cost of medical transport services.

To improve the COPD Score, several interventions could be implemented. Increased funding for GCPT could expand service hours and routes, improving accessibility. Partnerships with ride-sharing companies could offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments. The promotion of telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person visits. Furthermore, the establishment of a local clinic offering respiratory therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation services would significantly improve healthcare access for individuals with COPD in Quaker City.

The COPD Score for Quaker City highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the transportation challenges require careful planning and proactive strategies for individuals managing COPD. Understanding the available resources and advocating for improved transportation infrastructure are crucial steps towards ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.