44048, Kingsville, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44048, Kingsville, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.51 percent of residents in 44048 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashtabula County Medical Center with a distance of 6.43 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kingsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44048)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of lake breezes and the scent of freshly tilled fields in Kingsville, Ohio. But for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the beauty of this rural landscape is often shadowed by the complexities of healthcare access. This "COPD Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 44048, offering a detailed perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals with COPD as they navigate the journey to receive essential medical care. This is particularly crucial for those considering moving to Kingsville, ensuring they understand the practicalities of managing their condition within the community.

The core of this analysis revolves around the critical link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. COPD patients, often burdened by shortness of breath and fatigue, require reliable and readily available means to reach their doctors, specialists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. The score considers the practicality of commuting to healthcare facilities, evaluating the availability of various transportation options and their suitability for individuals with respiratory limitations.

Driving, the most common mode of transport, presents its own set of considerations. Kingsville is primarily served by state routes and local roads. The primary route for accessing healthcare is **State Route 193**, which connects Kingsville to Ashtabula, the nearest city with comprehensive medical facilities. Drive times to Ashtabula's major hospitals, such as **UH Ashtabula Medical Center**, typically range from 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. **Interstate 90**, accessible via State Route 193 and State Route 11, offers a faster route to larger medical centers in Cleveland, but adds significant travel time, typically around an hour and a half. Navigating these routes, particularly during winter months, can be challenging for individuals with COPD, who may find themselves more vulnerable to the cold and exposure.

Public **transportation** options in Kingsville are limited. Ashtabula County Transit (ACT) provides bus services within the county, including routes that serve Kingsville. However, the frequency of these routes is limited, and they may not always align with medical appointment schedules. Furthermore, the availability of **ADA-accessible** buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, and it is essential to confirm the availability and features of these accessible vehicles when planning a trip. Riders should always confirm ADA accessibility and route details with ACT before planning a trip.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, offer another alternative, although their availability in rural areas can be inconsistent. The presence of these services in Kingsville is variable, and wait times can be significant, especially during off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments. The reliability of these services needs to be carefully assessed, considering the potential for delays and the impact on a patient's respiratory condition.

Medical transportation services specifically designed for patients are another option. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid-approved** transportation providers may offer specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can assist patients with their needs. However, availability and eligibility for these services vary, and it is crucial to investigate these options thoroughly.

The proximity to healthcare facilities is a significant factor. While Ashtabula offers local options, specialized care may require travel to Cleveland. This necessitates careful planning, considering the patient's physical capabilities, the availability of transportation, and the potential for travel-related stress. The distance to Cleveland, combined with the potential for traffic delays, can significantly impact the overall healthcare experience for COPD patients.

The COPD Score, therefore, considers the following factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, the frequency and reliability of public transportation, the availability of ride-sharing services, the presence of medical transportation options, and the accessibility of these services for individuals with disabilities. It also considers the cost of transportation and the potential for travel-related stress.

For individuals considering moving to Kingsville, a thorough assessment of the transportation landscape is essential. It is crucial to investigate the availability of public transportation, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the eligibility for medical transportation assistance. Understanding the drive times to healthcare facilities and the potential for traffic delays is also vital.

The ideal scenario for a COPD patient in Kingsville involves a combination of readily available and reliable transportation options. This could include a combination of personal vehicles, public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services. The ability to plan and coordinate transportation in advance is also crucial, particularly for those with frequent appointments.

The COPD Score for Kingsville, Ohio (44048) highlights the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals with COPD in accessing healthcare. While the community offers a peaceful setting, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services can pose significant hurdles. Thorough planning, understanding the available resources, and proactively managing transportation needs are essential for ensuring that individuals with COPD can receive the timely and effective medical care they require. The score serves as a valuable tool for both current residents and those considering moving to Kingsville, offering a realistic perspective on the practicalities of managing COPD within the community.