44609, Beloit, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44609, Beloit, Ohio is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.81 percent of residents in 44609 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alliance Community Hospital with a distance of 5.41 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Beloit, Ohio (ZIP Code 44609)

The air hangs heavy in Beloit, Ohio (44609), a rural community nestled in the heart of Columbiana County. For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the very act of breathing can be a daily struggle. Access to timely and reliable healthcare, therefore, becomes paramount. This write-up assesses the "COPD Score" for healthcare access in Beloit, focusing on transportation options, drive times, and the overall ease of reaching vital medical services. This is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Beloit, as it directly impacts their quality of life.

The primary concern for COPD patients is minimizing exertion. Long commutes and stressful transportation scenarios can exacerbate symptoms, making access to healthcare a significant challenge. This assessment considers the available transportation options, weighing their accessibility, reliability, and the potential impact on a COPD patient's well-being.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Beloit’s location, while offering a sense of tranquility, presents some transportation hurdles. The primary roadways serving the area are State Route 14 and State Route 172. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic, particularly during peak hours. The nearest major city with comprehensive healthcare facilities is Youngstown, approximately a 30-45 minute drive via State Route 14 and the US-62. This drive, while manageable, necessitates careful planning, especially during inclement weather.

The drive to Salem, Ohio, a smaller city with some medical services, is a shorter commute, taking roughly 15-20 minutes via State Route 14. This proximity offers a more immediate option for routine appointments and urgent care needs. However, Salem's healthcare facilities may not provide the specialized care required for advanced COPD management.

The drive to Alliance, Ohio, another nearby city, is approximately 25-35 minutes via State Route 172. Alliance offers a regional hospital and some specialized medical services. The drive, while longer than to Salem, could be a viable option, depending on the specific healthcare needs.

**Public Transit and Accessibility:**

Public transportation options in Beloit are limited. The primary provider of public transit in the region is the **Port Authority of Columbiana County (PAT)**. However, PAT's services are primarily demand-response, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This can pose a significant challenge for COPD patients, particularly those experiencing sudden exacerbations of their symptoms.

PAT does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking significantly restrict the utility of public transit for immediate healthcare needs. The lack of fixed-route buses in Beloit further compounds the issue, making it difficult to reach healthcare facilities without prior planning and scheduling. The absence of readily available public transit is a major factor impacting the COPD Score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their reliability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural locations. Availability can be limited, and wait times may be longer compared to more urban areas. This unreliability can be a significant concern for COPD patients who require prompt transportation to medical appointments or in emergencies.

Medical transportation services are available, including options specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs. These services, such as **FirstCall Medical Transportation** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**, offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often come with a higher cost, and pre-booking is usually required. While a crucial resource, their cost and the need for prior arrangements can be a barrier for some patients.

**Healthcare Access and the COPD Score:**

The overall "COPD Score" for healthcare access in Beloit (44609) is moderate. While the proximity to Salem offers some advantages, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges. The need for pre-booking for public transit and medical transportation adds complexity to the process.

The drive times to Youngstown, while not excessive, can be stressful for COPD patients, and the limited public transit options make it difficult for those who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle. The availability of ride-sharing is inconsistent, and medical transportation, while a valuable resource, adds to the overall cost of healthcare.

**Considerations for Moving to Beloit:**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Beloit, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. The availability of a reliable vehicle or access to family or friends who can provide transportation is essential. The ability to plan and schedule appointments in advance is also vital.

It is important to research the specific healthcare services available in Salem, Alliance, and Youngstown, and to identify a primary care physician and pulmonologist who are readily accessible. Understanding the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services is also key to ensuring timely access to healthcare.

**Conclusion:**

While Beloit offers a peaceful environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges for COPD patients. While the drive times to nearby cities are manageable, the lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and consideration. The "COPD Score" for Beloit reflects the need for individuals with COPD to carefully evaluate their transportation options and healthcare needs before making a move to this community. The availability of reliable transportation is a critical factor in maintaining quality of life and ensuring timely access to essential medical care. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is essential for those managing COPD in Beloit.