43786, Stafford, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43786, Stafford, Ohio is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.31 percent of residents in 43786 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 19.79 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stafford, Ohio (ZIP Code 43786)

The rustling leaves of Stafford, Ohio, a community nestled in the embrace of rolling hills, paint a picturesque scene. Yet, for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the beauty of the landscape can be overshadowed by the practical realities of accessing healthcare. This write-up delves into the complexities of **transportation** options available in ZIP Code 43786, offering a "COPD Score" assessment based on **healthcare access** considerations. This information is particularly relevant for individuals contemplating **moving to Stafford**, ensuring informed decisions about their respiratory health management.

The primary factor influencing a COPD patient's well-being is timely and reliable access to medical care. This includes regular appointments with pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists, along with prompt access to emergency services during exacerbations. The "COPD Score" considers the availability and efficiency of **transportation** options, weighing factors such as drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Driving remains the dominant mode of **transportation** in Stafford. The primary thoroughfares are State Route 7 (SR-7) and County Road 10 (CR-10). SR-7, a major north-south artery, offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns like Marietta and Caldwell. However, the winding nature of the road, coupled with potential traffic, especially during peak hours, can impact drive times. CR-10, a more rural road, offers alternative routes but may involve longer travel distances and less direct access to specialized care.

A critical aspect of the "COPD Score" involves drive times. The nearest hospitals with comprehensive respiratory care are located in Marietta, approximately a 30- to 45-minute drive via SR-7, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Caldwell, a smaller town with a local hospital, is closer, typically a 20- to 30-minute drive. These drive times are crucial for patients experiencing acute respiratory distress, where every minute counts. The score considers the potential for delays due to road conditions, especially during winter months when snow and ice can significantly impact travel times.

Public transit options in Stafford are limited. The local transit authority may offer demand-response services, requiring advance booking. These services, while potentially offering door-to-door **transportation**, often involve longer travel times due to multiple pick-ups and drop-offs. The "COPD Score" evaluates the reliability and efficiency of these services, considering factors such as wait times, route availability, and the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles. The lack of frequent, fixed-route services poses a significant challenge for COPD patients who require regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in Stafford, although their presence is not guaranteed. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. The "COPD Score" assesses the reliability of these services, considering factors such as average wait times, cost, and the potential for cancellations. The absence of readily available ride-sharing options can create significant barriers to **healthcare access**, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to personal vehicles.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) providers, play a crucial role in **healthcare access** for COPD patients. These services provide specialized **transportation** for individuals who require medical assistance during transit. The "COPD Score" evaluates the availability and responsiveness of these services, considering factors such as response times, the availability of specialized equipment, and the cost of services. The presence of reliable medical transport options is critical for ensuring timely access to emergency care and scheduled medical appointments.

The "COPD Score" also factors in the accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves. This includes considerations such as the availability of parking, the ease of navigating the facilities, and the availability of assistance for patients with mobility limitations. The score assesses the presence of features such as ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms, ensuring that patients can comfortably and safely access the care they need.

For individuals contemplating **moving to Stafford**, the "COPD Score" provides a valuable framework for assessing the suitability of the community for their respiratory health needs. The score highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the **transportation** infrastructure, the availability of healthcare services, and the overall accessibility of the community. It encourages prospective residents to carefully consider their individual needs and preferences, ensuring that they can maintain a high quality of life while managing their COPD.

The "COPD Score" for Stafford, Ohio, in ZIP Code 43786, is moderate. While the community offers access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the need for advance planning for medical **transportation** underscore the importance of careful consideration for individuals with COPD. The score emphasizes the need for proactive planning, including establishing reliable **transportation** arrangements and ensuring access to emergency services.

Ultimately, the "COPD Score" serves as a tool for empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and **transportation** needs. It underscores the importance of proactive planning, careful consideration of individual circumstances, and a commitment to advocating for improved **healthcare access** within the community. For those considering **moving to Stafford**, a thorough understanding of the **transportation** landscape is essential for ensuring a successful and healthy transition.