43804, Baltic, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43804, Baltic, Ohio is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.36 percent of residents in 43804 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Coshocton Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.56 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Baltic, Ohio (ZIP Code 43804)

The crisp air of Baltic, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Amish Country, offers a tranquil existence. But for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity can be overshadowed by the challenges of accessing essential healthcare. This analysis, a “COPD Score” assessment, explores the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 43804, focusing on how readily individuals with COPD can reach their medical appointments. This is crucial for those considering moving to Baltic, or for existing residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

The primary concern for individuals with COPD is the distance and ease of travel to healthcare facilities. The ability to breathe comfortably while in transit, and the availability of oxygen and other necessary medical support, are paramount. This score considers drive times, public transportation options, ride-share availability, and medical transportation services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in the area.

**Driving Distances and Road Networks:**

Baltic, Ohio, is a rural community, and the primary mode of transportation is by car. The nearest hospitals and specialized pulmonary care centers are located in surrounding towns and cities, requiring careful consideration of drive times.

The most direct route to larger medical facilities often involves navigating **State Route 256** and **State Route 93**, which connect Baltic to larger towns like Dover and New Philadelphia. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic during peak hours, potentially exacerbating breathing difficulties for COPD patients. The drive to Union Hospital in Dover, a key healthcare provider, is approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Further afield, access to more specialized care may necessitate travel to Canton, Ohio, approximately an hour’s drive via **State Route 93** and **Interstate 77**. This longer journey presents a significant challenge for individuals with COPD, requiring careful planning and consideration of potential rest stops and oxygen supply. The availability of oxygen during the drive is paramount.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in and around Baltic are limited. The primary public transit provider in the region is the Tuscarawas County Transportation (TCT). TCT operates a demand-response system, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service provides door-to-door transportation within Tuscarawas County, and can be a lifeline for those unable to drive.

However, TCT’s service is not always ideal for individuals with COPD. The scheduling process requires advance planning, which can be difficult for unexpected medical needs. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, equipped with features like wheelchair lifts and secure seating, is essential for some COPD patients. Confirming the availability of these features for each ride is crucial.

The limited frequency of TCT services, particularly on weekends and evenings, can also pose a challenge. The wait times between appointments and return trips may be extended, increasing the risk of fatigue and breathing difficulties. For those moving to Baltic, understanding the limitations of public transportation is essential.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation Services:**

The availability of ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Baltic is limited. These services may be available in larger towns, but their presence in the immediate vicinity of ZIP Code 43804 is not guaranteed. The reliability of ride-share services for medical appointments is therefore questionable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable alternative. Several companies operate in the region, including local ambulance services and specialized medical transport providers. These services often provide trained personnel, including EMTs, and can accommodate medical needs, such as oxygen and stretcher transport.

However, medical transportation services can be expensive, and insurance coverage may vary. Researching the available options and understanding the associated costs is essential for individuals with COPD. The availability of these services is a crucial factor in the COPD Score.

**Assessing the COPD Score:**

The COPD Score for ZIP Code 43804 reflects the challenges and opportunities for healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transportation options, presents a significant hurdle. The longer drive times to specialized care centers further complicate the situation.

The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline, but the associated costs and insurance coverage complexities must be considered. The limited availability of ride-share services further restricts options.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the COPD Score, several initiatives could be implemented. Expanding the reach and frequency of TCT services, particularly on weekends and evenings, would provide greater accessibility. Increasing the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial.

Promoting partnerships between healthcare providers and medical transportation services could help reduce costs and streamline the appointment process. Educating residents about available transportation options, including insurance coverage and financial assistance programs, is also essential.

For those considering moving to Baltic, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is paramount. Understanding the distances to medical facilities, the limitations of public transportation, and the costs of medical transport services is crucial for making an informed decision. The ability to access timely and effective healthcare is a critical factor in managing COPD and maintaining a good quality of life. This COPD Score analysis provides a framework for evaluating the transportation landscape and ensuring that residents of Baltic, Ohio, have the resources they need to thrive.