44676, Shreve, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44676, Shreve, Ohio is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.92 percent of residents in 44676 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 10.03 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Shreve, Ohio (ZIP Code 44676)

The crisp air of Shreve, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Wayne County, offers a certain charm, a slower pace of life that draws many. But for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the realities of healthcare access in this rural landscape require careful consideration. This analysis, a "COPD Score" write-up, examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 44676, focusing on the practicalities of reaching vital medical appointments. It is designed to help those considering moving to Shreve or those already residing here, better understand their healthcare access.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, undeniably, transportation. For residents of Shreve, the primary mode is the personal vehicle. Driving times to healthcare facilities are crucial, especially for those with breathing difficulties. The nearest major medical center is Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, approximately 35 miles east. The journey typically involves navigating **State Route 226** eastward, connecting to **U.S. Route 30** before reaching Canton. Under normal traffic conditions, this drive takes around 45 to 60 minutes.

Another viable option is Wooster Community Hospital, located roughly 15 miles north. The route involves traveling north on **State Route 226** and then west on **U.S. Route 250**. This shorter drive, usually taking 20 to 30 minutes, offers a more immediate option for routine check-ups and specialist appointments. However, access to specialized pulmonology services might be limited compared to the larger hospitals in Canton.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Wayne County Transit, while serving the broader county, has infrequent routes and schedules. Its coverage of Shreve is minimal, with limited stops and operating hours. Crucially, the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of these routes needs careful scrutiny. While the transit system is mandated to provide accessible vehicles, the practicality of navigating routes with COPD symptoms requires thorough investigation. Potential riders should contact Wayne County Transit directly to confirm route availability, scheduling, and ADA features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on these services for regular medical appointments requires pre-planning and potentially booking rides well in advance. The cost of ride-sharing, especially for longer distances to Canton, can also be a significant financial burden.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like First Call Medical Transportation and MedStar Ambulance provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations and can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require pre-booking and may not be covered by all insurance plans. Careful research into insurance coverage and service availability is essential.

The "COPD Score" for Shreve, therefore, reflects the challenges of healthcare access. While the shorter drive to Wooster offers some convenience, the longer drive to Canton, with its greater range of specialized services, presents a significant hurdle. The scarcity of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate matters.

Individuals with COPD considering a move to Shreve must prioritize a thorough assessment of their transportation needs. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing or medical transport.

For those already living in Shreve, proactive planning is paramount. This includes establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, understanding the availability of specialized pulmonology services, and exploring all transportation options. Creating a contingency plan for unexpected health events, such as arranging for emergency transportation, is also crucial.

The decision to move to Shreve, or to remain there with COPD, requires a realistic understanding of the transportation and healthcare landscape. It is a balance between the benefits of rural living and the practical challenges of accessing essential medical care. Careful planning, proactive engagement with healthcare providers, and a thorough understanding of available transportation options are essential for ensuring a good quality of life.

The "COPD Score" is not a definitive metric, but rather a framework for evaluating healthcare access. It highlights the importance of considering transportation as a critical factor in managing COPD in a rural environment. Individuals with COPD must proactively address these transportation challenges to maintain their health and well-being in Shreve, Ohio.