44634, Homeworth, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44634, Homeworth, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.81 percent of residents in 44634 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alliance Community Hospital with a distance of 5.24 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Homeworth (ZIP Code 44634)

Homeworth, Ohio, nestled in the heart of rural Columbiana County, presents a unique landscape for residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Assessing the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare access** points is crucial for individuals considering **moving to Homeworth** or currently residing within the 44634 ZIP code. This analysis, a "COPD Score" write-up, examines the practicalities of reaching medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in this region revolves around the availability of medical professionals and the ability to reach them. For COPD sufferers, regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and potential emergency care are vital. Therefore, the efficiency and reliability of transportation become paramount.

Driving is the dominant mode of transport in Homeworth. The primary arteries facilitating travel are State Route 172 and State Route 183. Traveling east on SR-172, one can reach Salem Regional Medical Center in Salem, approximately a 20-25 minute drive. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times. SR-183 offers a more direct, albeit slightly shorter, route to Salem, but is also susceptible to weather-related delays. Both routes offer a relatively straightforward journey, but the lack of alternative routes presents a potential vulnerability during unforeseen circumstances.

Heading west on SR-172 leads to Canton, Ohio, approximately a 40-45 minute drive. This journey provides access to a wider array of healthcare options, including Aultman Hospital and Mercy Medical Center. The route utilizes SR-172 and connects to US-62, a major highway that facilitates access to the city. While this offers more comprehensive healthcare options, the increased travel time and potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, are significant considerations for COPD patients.

Public transit options in Homeworth are limited. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus services within the broader Stark County region, but its reach into Homeworth is minimal. There are no direct bus routes serving the 44634 ZIP code. The closest SARTA routes would require a significant drive to a connecting point, making public transit an impractical option for most residents, especially those with mobility limitations often associated with COPD. This severely restricts **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on SARTA buses are standard, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating. However, the lack of route availability to Homeworth renders these features moot for local residents. The absence of public transit highlights the critical need for alternative **transportation** solutions for individuals managing COPD.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Canton and Salem areas, but their reliability and availability in Homeworth are variable. While a ride-sharing service might be available, it may be subject to longer wait times and potentially higher fares, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This poses a challenge for those requiring immediate medical attention or scheduled appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available in the area. These services are essential for emergency situations, but they are not a practical solution for routine appointments or pulmonary rehabilitation. The availability of these services is generally good, but response times can be affected by the rural nature of the area and the distance to the nearest hospitals.

The COPD Score for Homeworth, 44634, is therefore significantly impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options. Individuals considering **moving to Homeworth** with COPD must carefully assess their ability to drive or arrange for reliable transport to medical appointments. The lack of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to **healthcare access**.

Furthermore, the potential for weather-related delays during winter months adds another layer of complexity. The drive times to hospitals in Salem and Canton, while manageable, require careful planning and consideration of potential travel disruptions.

The absence of readily available public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles underscore the importance of establishing a strong support network for COPD patients in Homeworth. Family, friends, or volunteer organizations can play a crucial role in providing transportation assistance.

For those with COPD considering **moving to Homeworth**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is essential. The proximity to healthcare facilities, the reliability of personal vehicles, and the availability of support networks should be carefully evaluated. The **healthcare access** challenges in this rural environment necessitate proactive planning and a commitment to ensuring safe and reliable transport to medical care.

The COPD Score for Homeworth, 44634, would be improved with increased access to public transit, expanded ride-sharing availability, and the development of community-based transportation programs specifically designed to serve the needs of individuals with chronic illnesses. Such initiatives would significantly enhance **healthcare access** and improve the quality of life for COPD patients residing in this rural community.

In conclusion, while Homeworth offers a peaceful and potentially desirable living environment, the challenges related to **transportation** and **healthcare access** for individuals with COPD must be carefully considered. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant hurdles. Prospective residents, therefore, should prioritize a comprehensive assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of support networks before making a decision about **moving to Homeworth**.