44675, Sherrodsville, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44675, Sherrodsville, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.94 percent of residents in 44675 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Hospital with a distance of 21.24 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sherrodsville (44675)

The air hangs a little heavier in Sherrodsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44675), a rural community nestled amidst rolling hills and the serene waters of Atwood Lake. For residents managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), this reality underscores the critical importance of reliable **transportation** and seamless **healthcare access**. Assessing the ease of reaching vital medical appointments, particularly for individuals with compromised respiratory function, requires a comprehensive "COPD Score" evaluation. This write-up delves into the intricacies of navigating the healthcare landscape, providing a detailed analysis of **transportation** options available to those living with COPD, or considering **moving to Sherrodsville**.

The primary concern for COPD patients is the ability to reach medical facilities promptly and safely. The nearest major hospitals offering specialized pulmonary care are located in Canton, approximately 40 miles east, and New Philadelphia, about 20 miles south. The journey to Canton necessitates travel along Ohio State Route 212, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours. The final stretch utilizes U.S. Route 62, a well-maintained but often busy thoroughfare. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes roughly an hour.

Alternatively, the trip to New Philadelphia involves navigating Ohio State Route 212 South, followed by a brief segment on U.S. Route 250. This route is generally less congested than the Canton option, with a drive time of approximately 30 to 40 minutes. The condition of the roads is generally good, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Public **transportation** options in Sherrodsville are limited. The Tuscarawas County Senior Center provides some transportation services, primarily focused on serving elderly residents. However, the availability and frequency of these services for medical appointments are subject to scheduling and eligibility requirements. It's important to note that the Senior Center's vehicles may not always possess the specialized features, such as wheelchair accessibility, that are essential for some COPD patients.

Furthermore, there is no established public bus system operating within or directly serving Sherrodsville. This lack of a readily accessible public transit network presents a significant challenge for individuals who are unable to drive or lack access to personal vehicles. This deficiency in public transit contributes negatively to the COPD Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in rural communities can be unpredictable. The wait times for a ride-share vehicle may be extended, and the cost can be significantly higher compared to urban areas. This is another factor that impacts the COPD Score, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including MedTrans and First Medical Transportation. These services provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and the availability may be limited, especially for short-notice appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a crucial role in ensuring **healthcare access** for individuals with disabilities. While the Senior Center strives to provide accessible vehicles, the lack of a comprehensive public transit system and the reliance on private **transportation** services raise concerns about ADA compliance. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and the training of drivers in assisting patients with mobility challenges are critical considerations.

For individuals considering **moving to Sherrodsville**, the availability of healthcare services and the ease of access are paramount. The COPD Score, in this context, would reflect the combined impact of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical **transportation** services. A higher score would indicate better access to healthcare, while a lower score would highlight the challenges faced by COPD patients in reaching medical appointments.

The distance to specialized pulmonary care centers, coupled with the limitations of public transit, presents a significant hurdle. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or costly medical **transportation** services adds to the complexity. The lack of readily available, affordable, and accessible **transportation** options negatively impacts the COPD Score.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of local healthcare providers. Sherrodsville itself has limited medical facilities. Residents typically rely on primary care physicians and specialists located in nearby towns. The proximity of these providers and the ease of reaching them are crucial components of the overall score.

The availability of home healthcare services is another important factor. For COPD patients with mobility limitations, home healthcare can provide vital support and reduce the need for frequent trips to medical facilities. The availability of home healthcare services and the ease of accessing them contribute positively to the COPD Score.

The impact of seasonal weather conditions on **transportation** is also a key consideration. Winter weather, with its potential for snow and ice, can significantly impact drive times and the reliability of **transportation** services. This factor is particularly relevant in Sherrodsville, where winter weather can be severe.

The overall COPD Score for Sherrodsville (44675) would likely be moderate. While the proximity to New Philadelphia offers a relatively shorter drive time to some medical facilities, the limitations in public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for high costs associated with medical **transportation** services pose significant challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and the presence of medical **transportation** providers offer some solutions, but their reliability and affordability are not always guaranteed.

For individuals with COPD considering **moving to Sherrodsville**, careful planning and consideration of **transportation** needs are essential. Assessing the availability of reliable **transportation** options, exploring the possibility of home healthcare services, and establishing relationships with local healthcare providers are crucial steps in ensuring access to timely and effective medical care. Understanding the intricacies of the healthcare **transportation** landscape is paramount to maintaining a good quality of life while managing COPD in Sherrodsville.