44613, Brewster, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44613, Brewster, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.98 percent of residents in 44613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 15.68 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Commute to Healthcare in Brewster, Ohio (ZIP Code 44613)

The air hangs heavy in Brewster, Ohio (ZIP Code 44613), a village nestled in Stark County. For residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the simple act of accessing healthcare can become a monumental challenge. This analysis, a "COPD Score" if you will, examines the transportation landscape surrounding Brewster, focusing on its impact on healthcare access for individuals with COPD. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the obstacles and opportunities facing those seeking medical attention, especially those considering moving to Brewster.

The very nature of COPD, a progressive lung disease, demands consistent and timely medical care. Frequent doctor's appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to emergency services are crucial for managing the condition and maintaining quality of life. Therefore, the availability and accessibility of transportation become paramount. This score will assess the various transportation options available to Brewster residents, considering their practicality and suitability for individuals with COPD.

**The Asphalt Arteries: Driving to Healthcare**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Brewster, while small, benefits from its proximity to major roadways. The primary artery is **State Route 21**, which runs north-south, connecting Brewster to Canton, a city with significant healthcare resources. Driving south on Route 21, the trip to Aultman Hospital in Canton typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive, while relatively short, can be fatiguing for individuals with COPD, especially during periods of exacerbation.

Another crucial route is **U.S. Route 30**, located a short distance north of Brewster. This highway provides access to Massillon, where Mercy Medical Center offers additional healthcare options. The drive to Massillon via Route 30 is generally shorter, around 15-20 minutes, offering a potentially quicker route to care. However, traffic congestion on Route 30, particularly during rush hour, can significantly impact drive times.

Smaller roads like **Brewster Road** and **Wooster Street** provide local access within the village and to surrounding areas. These routes are often less congested but may require navigating stop signs and intersections, which can be challenging for individuals with breathing difficulties. The condition of these roads, including potholes and uneven surfaces, can also contribute to a less comfortable journey.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Brewster are limited. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus service within Stark County, but its presence in Brewster is minimal. SARTA's Route 103, the **Canton-Brewster route**, offers a potential lifeline, but service frequency is limited, often running only a few times a day. This limited schedule can create significant delays and make it difficult to coordinate with medical appointments.

Furthermore, the accessibility of SARTA buses for individuals with COPD is a critical consideration. While SARTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring wheelchair accessibility and other accommodations, the physical demands of boarding and disembarking a bus, particularly for those with limited mobility or respiratory distress, can be challenging. The long wait times associated with infrequent routes can also exacerbate symptoms.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Costly Alternative**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Canton-Massillon area, but their availability in Brewster can be unpredictable. The cost of these services can be a significant barrier for individuals with fixed incomes, a common reality for many with chronic illnesses. The reliability of ride-sharing, especially during inclement weather or at off-peak hours, is another concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Priority Medical Transportation** operate in the region. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, they are typically more expensive than public transit or ride-sharing, and require advance booking, which may not be feasible in emergency situations.

**The Impact of Moving to Brewster**

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Brewster, the transportation landscape presents both advantages and disadvantages. The proximity to Canton and Massillon, with their comprehensive healthcare facilities, is a significant advantage. However, the limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation pose challenges.

The decision to move to Brewster requires careful consideration of an individual's specific needs and circumstances. Those with access to a personal vehicle and the ability to drive may find the location convenient. However, individuals who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully evaluate the available options and the potential impact on their healthcare access.

**Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Healthcare Access**

The COPD Score for Brewster highlights the need for improved transportation options to ensure healthcare access for residents with COPD. Increasing the frequency of SARTA bus routes, expanding ADA-compliant features, and exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation could significantly improve healthcare access. Further, community initiatives to promote volunteer driver programs or establish a local medical transportation network could offer valuable support.

Ultimately, creating a truly COPD-friendly environment in Brewster requires a multifaceted approach. Addressing transportation barriers is a crucial step in ensuring that residents with COPD can receive the timely and consistent medical care they need to live full and healthy lives. The well-being of those who choose to call Brewster home depends on it.