44670, Robertsville, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44670, Robertsville, Ohio is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 44670 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Medical Center with a distance of 11.39 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Robertsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44670)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of rural tranquility in Robertsville, Ohio, a haven for those seeking respite from the relentless pace of city life. Yet, this idyllic setting presents unique challenges, particularly for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Their ability to thrive hinges on reliable **transportation** and seamless **healthcare access**. This write-up, the "COPD Score" for Robertsville, aims to illuminate the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape within ZIP code 44670, offering insights for residents and those considering **moving to Robertsville**.

The primary concern for COPD patients is timely access to medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and essential medications. Delays can exacerbate symptoms, leading to hospitalizations and a diminished quality of life. Therefore, the "COPD Score" will analyze the available **transportation** options, considering drive times, public transit viability, ride-sharing accessibility, and medical transport services.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Realities**

Robertsville, nestled in Stark County, relies heavily on personal vehicles for **transportation**. The primary arteries connecting the village to essential healthcare services are State Route 183 and State Route 44. Traveling east on SR-183 offers a direct route to Aultman Hospital in Canton, a critical healthcare provider. The drive, typically spanning approximately 20 miles, can take anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Morning and evening commutes can experience congestion, potentially adding significant time to the journey.

Heading south on SR-44 provides access to Alliance Community Hospital, roughly 15 miles away. This trip usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes, presenting a slightly shorter drive than the Canton route. However, road conditions and weather can drastically affect these drive times, particularly during the harsh Ohio winters. Snow and ice can make travel treacherous, potentially isolating residents and hindering **healthcare access**.

These drive times, while manageable for many, pose challenges for individuals with advanced COPD. The physical exertion of driving, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, can trigger respiratory distress. For those with limited mobility or requiring supplemental oxygen, the journey becomes even more arduous.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Unfortunately, public transit options in Robertsville are severely limited. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus service throughout Stark County, but its reach into Robertsville is minimal. The routes that do serve the area are infrequent and may not directly connect to key healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, the accessibility of existing routes for COPD patients is a crucial consideration. SARTA strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, equipped with features like wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited frequency of service and the potential for long wait times can still present difficulties for individuals with breathing difficulties. Confirming the availability of ADA features on specific routes is essential for those relying on public **transportation**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Avenues**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Stark County, offering a potential alternative to personal vehicles and limited public transit. However, the availability of these services in Robertsville can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Booking a ride in advance is highly recommended, and patients should factor in potential wait times when scheduling appointments.

Medical transport services provide specialized **transportation** for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and oxygen. Several medical transport companies operate in the area, including MedTransport and Ohio Medical Transport. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than other **transportation** options and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Examination**

The "COPD Score" must consider the accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves. Aultman Hospital and Alliance Community Hospital offer comprehensive pulmonary care services, including pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs. However, the availability of appointments and the distance to these facilities remain significant hurdles.

Furthermore, access to pharmacies and durable medical equipment (DME) suppliers is essential. Robertsville has limited local options, necessitating trips to nearby towns for medication refills and oxygen supplies. This further underscores the importance of reliable **transportation** for COPD patients.

**Moving to Robertsville: A Considered Choice**

For individuals with COPD considering **moving to Robertsville**, a thorough assessment of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** is paramount. While the village offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of navigating the healthcare system must be carefully weighed.

The "COPD Score" for Robertsville is not a definitive numerical rating, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the factors influencing healthcare access. It highlights the importance of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential benefits of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Potential residents should proactively investigate the availability of medical transport services, familiarize themselves with SARTA routes, and assess the feasibility of relying on ride-sharing. Moreover, they should consider the proximity of pharmacies, DME suppliers, and pulmonary specialists.

Ultimately, the decision to reside in Robertsville is a personal one. However, by understanding the complexities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, individuals with COPD can make informed choices and proactively plan for their medical needs. This assessment aims to empower individuals with the knowledge necessary to navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure a fulfilling life in their chosen community. The ability to successfully manage COPD depends on the ability to access the necessary medical resources.