43836, Plainfield, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 43836, Plainfield, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.08 percent of residents in 43836 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Coshocton Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.03 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Plainfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 43836)

The air hangs heavy in the lungs of those battling Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Every breath is a battle, and access to timely healthcare is paramount. This analysis assesses the "COPD Score" for residents of Plainfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 43836), focusing on the critical factor of transportation to healthcare facilities. This score considers the ease and efficiency of reaching pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and emergency services, vital for managing COPD. Considering a move to Plainfield? This is crucial information.

Plainfield, nestled in Coshocton County, presents a unique challenge. The rural landscape, while offering respite from city pollution, necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles. Public transit options are limited, and the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate. Evaluating the transportation landscape is paramount for individuals with COPD, impacting their ability to receive prompt and consistent medical care. The COPD score helps illuminate this reality.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary artery connecting Plainfield to healthcare is State Route 62, a two-lane highway that winds through the rolling hills. Traveling south on SR-62 will eventually lead to Coshocton, the county seat, where Coshocton Regional Hospital offers a range of services. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This relatively short commute is a positive factor, contributing to a favorable COPD score.

For specialized pulmonary care, residents often need to travel further. Heading east on SR-62, then merging onto Interstate 77, offers access to larger medical centers in Canton, Ohio. The drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton, a facility with advanced respiratory care, is around an hour, assuming ideal traffic. This longer commute, while offering more comprehensive care, introduces potential challenges for those with breathing difficulties, especially during periods of exacerbation.

Alternatively, heading west on SR-62 and then north on US-36 provides access to Zanesville, Ohio, home to Genesis Hospital. This journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Genesis Hospital offers a range of services, including pulmonology, and could be a viable option depending on the specific needs and preferences of the individual. The variability in drive times based on destination significantly impacts the COPD score.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. Winter weather, with snow and ice, can significantly impact travel times, potentially delaying access to critical care. The COPD score must account for these seasonal variations, particularly for individuals whose respiratory function is easily compromised.

**Public Transit Scarcity:**

Public transportation options in Plainfield are extremely limited. Coshocton County does offer a dial-a-ride service, operated by the Coshocton County Transit. However, the service is demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance, and the availability is subject to operational constraints. While the transit service offers ADA-accessible vehicles, the limited hours of operation and the need for pre-booking pose significant challenges for individuals experiencing sudden respiratory distress. The lack of readily available public transit significantly lowers the COPD score.

Furthermore, the geographical limitations of the service, covering a primarily rural area, might not extend to all healthcare facilities. Individuals may need to arrange transportation to a central pickup point, adding another layer of complexity and potential delay to their healthcare journey. The dependability of this service is a key factor in the overall COPD score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Coshocton County, though their presence is less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can vary based on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is risky, and the potential for long wait times can be detrimental to someone experiencing a COPD exacerbation. The COPD score reflects this uncertainty.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more reliable option. Companies like MedExpress and LifeCare Ambulance operate in the region, providing non-emergency and emergency medical transportation. These services are equipped to handle patients with respiratory issues, offering oxygen and other necessary support during transport. While these services provide a crucial safety net, they come at a cost, which may be a barrier for some individuals. The accessibility and affordability of these services are factored into the COPD score.

**Healthcare Access and the COPD Score:**

The COPD score for Plainfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 43836) is moderate. The proximity to Coshocton Regional Hospital offers a relatively quick route for basic medical needs. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present significant challenges.

The longer drive times to specialized care in Canton or Zanesville further complicate the situation, particularly during emergencies. The availability of medical transportation services provides a vital safety net, but the cost and the need for pre-planning are considerations.

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Plainfield, a thorough assessment of their individual needs and resources is essential. Factors such as the severity of their condition, their ability to drive, and their financial capacity to utilize medical transportation services will all impact their ability to successfully manage their condition in this location.

In conclusion, while Plainfield offers a peaceful environment, the transportation infrastructure poses challenges for individuals with COPD. Careful planning, a reliable support system, and a proactive approach to healthcare management are crucial for ensuring access to timely and appropriate medical care. The COPD score serves as a valuable tool for assessing the transportation landscape and making informed decisions about healthcare access in this rural community.