44628, Glenmont, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44628, Glenmont, Ohio is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.26 percent of residents in 44628 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 11.92 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Glenmont, Ohio (ZIP Code 44628)

For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), reliable and accessible transportation is paramount. Regular healthcare appointments, including pulmonary rehabilitation, medication refills, and specialist consultations, are crucial for maintaining lung health and quality of life. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape within and surrounding ZIP Code 44628 (Glenmont, Ohio), offering a "COPD Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation.

Glenmont, a small village nestled in Holmes County, presents unique challenges and opportunities concerning healthcare access. The rural nature of the area often translates to longer travel distances and limited public transportation alternatives. However, the community's proximity to larger towns and cities offers potential solutions for those seeking care. Assessing these factors is crucial for individuals considering moving to Glenmont or for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare access strategies.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many Glenmont residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The availability of a car and the ability to drive independently significantly impact healthcare access. Considering the distances to healthcare facilities is essential.

To access the nearest hospital, Pomerene Hospital in Millersburg, a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes is required. The most direct route typically involves traveling east on County Road 77 and then turning onto State Route 241. This route is generally well-maintained, but drivers should be mindful of potential seasonal hazards like snow and ice during winter months. For those needing specialized pulmonary care, the drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, is a longer journey, typically taking around an hour. This route primarily utilizes US-62 East and then merges onto I-77 North. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend this travel time.

For routine appointments with primary care physicians, residents might consider practices in Millersburg, Berlin, or even Wooster. The drive to these locations varies from 15 minutes to 45 minutes, depending on the specific clinic and the chosen route. Navigating these routes, particularly during inclement weather, requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Accessibility**

Public transportation options in Glenmont are extremely limited. Holmes County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of public transit severely restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

The absence of a reliable public transit system means that residents must rely on alternative transportation solutions, such as ride-sharing services, family members, or specialized medical transport. This lack of options can be particularly challenging for individuals with COPD, who may experience fatigue, shortness of breath, or other symptoms that make driving or waiting for transportation difficult.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may operate in the Glenmont area, but their availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Residents should verify service availability and plan accordingly.

Specialized medical transportation services offer a more reliable alternative for individuals with COPD. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist with mobility and medical needs. Several medical transport companies serve the Holmes County area.

One example is LifeCare Ambulance, which provides non-emergency medical transportation to and from medical appointments. Another option is Senior Helpers, which offers transportation and companion care services. While these services can be invaluable, they often come with a higher cost than public transit or ride-sharing.

**COPD Score and Recommendations**

Based on the assessment of transportation options in Glenmont, Ohio (ZIP Code 44628), the "COPD Score" is **moderate to low**. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, presents significant challenges for individuals with COPD.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize Vehicle Accessibility:** Ensure access to a reliable vehicle and maintain it regularly.
* **Plan Appointments Strategically:** Schedule appointments during off-peak hours to minimize travel time and traffic congestion.
* **Explore Medical Transportation:** Investigate and utilize medical transportation services for appointments and procedures.
* **Build a Support Network:** Cultivate a network of family, friends, or neighbors who can provide transportation assistance.
* **Advocate for Improved Transportation:** Support initiatives that aim to improve public transportation or expand ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** When considering moving to Glenmont, carefully assess the proximity to healthcare facilities and transportation options.

**Conclusion**

Navigating the transportation landscape in Glenmont, Ohio, requires careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals with COPD. While the area's rural setting presents challenges, proactive measures, such as utilizing medical transportation, building a support network, and prioritizing vehicle accessibility, can significantly improve healthcare access and enhance the quality of life for residents managing this chronic condition. The "COPD Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing transportation barriers to ensure that all residents can receive the healthcare they need.