44685, Uniontown, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44685, Uniontown, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.77 percent of residents in 44685 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Medical Center with a distance of 10.51 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Uniontown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44685)

The decision to relocate, particularly when managing a chronic respiratory condition like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), necessitates a thorough assessment of healthcare accessibility. This write-up provides a detailed analysis of transportation options within and surrounding Uniontown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44685), focusing on factors relevant to individuals with COPD. We will evaluate drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options, culminating in a "COPD Score" to gauge the ease of accessing healthcare in this community.

The primary consideration for anyone considering moving to Uniontown with COPD is the proximity and accessibility of healthcare facilities. Proximity alone isn't enough; the ability to reach these facilities reliably and comfortably is paramount. We will explore how readily available transportation options can impact the quality of life and healthcare outcomes. This analysis will delve into the practical realities of getting to appointments, picking up prescriptions, and managing potential medical emergencies.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For those who drive, the ease of navigating the local roadways is critical. Uniontown is conveniently situated, providing relatively quick access to Canton, Akron, and surrounding areas. The primary thoroughfare is **Ohio Route 43**, which runs north-south through the heart of Uniontown. Driving to Mercy Medical Center in Canton, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. The route primarily utilizes Route 43 and **Whipple Avenue NW**.

Traveling to Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital, a regional healthcare hub, involves a slightly longer drive of around 30-40 minutes. The most direct route is via **Ohio Route 619** east to **Interstate 77 North**, then to **Interstate 76 East** towards Akron. This route can be subject to traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours.

Further afield, the Cleveland Clinic main campus is roughly an hour and a half away, accessible via I-77 North and I-480 East. While this may be necessary for specialized care, it underscores the importance of local healthcare options for routine management.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in the Uniontown area are limited but exist. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus services, though routes and frequency may not be ideal for individuals with COPD. Route 81, the North Canton/Uniontown route, serves the area. However, this route may have limited service hours, especially on weekends and evenings.

SARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating. However, the frequency of service and the potential for long wait times at bus stops can be challenging for those with breathing difficulties. The availability of accessible stops and shelters is also a factor to consider. Careful planning is crucial when relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Uniontown area. However, their reliability and cost can vary. During peak hours or in inclement weather, wait times may increase, and surge pricing may apply. This can be a significant consideration for individuals with COPD who require timely access to healthcare.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as a physician's order. While offering a more comfortable and reliable alternative, they can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

**Healthcare Access Considerations for COPD:**

The ability to access healthcare is paramount for individuals with COPD. Regular check-ups, pulmonary rehabilitation, and access to emergency care are essential for managing the condition. The availability of local pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and pharmacies is crucial. In Uniontown, individuals have access to several primary care physicians and specialists in the surrounding areas.

The presence of nearby urgent care facilities and emergency rooms is also a critical factor. Knowing that prompt medical attention is readily available provides peace of mind. The proximity to hospitals like Mercy Medical Center and Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital offers a safety net in case of acute exacerbations.

**COPD Score Calculation:**

To arrive at a COPD Score, we will consider several factors, each weighted based on its importance:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities (30%):** This assesses the drive times to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices.
* **Public Transportation Availability (20%):** This considers the frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of public transit.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Options (20%):** This evaluates the availability, reliability, and cost of these services.
* **Local Healthcare Resources (30%):** This considers the availability of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, pharmacies, and emergency services.

**Scoring Methodology:**

Each category will be scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 being the least favorable and 5 being the most favorable. The weighted scores will be summed to produce the final COPD Score.

**Preliminary Assessment:**

Based on the information gathered, Uniontown (ZIP Code 44685) presents a mixed picture for individuals with COPD. The proximity to healthcare facilities is generally good, with relatively short drive times to major hospitals. However, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on ride-sharing services, which can be unpredictable, pose challenges. The availability of local healthcare resources is favorable, but the overall score will depend on the weighting of the factors.

**Final COPD Score (To be determined after detailed scoring):**

The final COPD Score will be calculated after assigning scores to each category. This score will provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility in Uniontown, allowing individuals with COPD to make informed decisions about their relocation. The score will serve as a valuable tool for evaluating the suitability of Uniontown for those managing this chronic respiratory condition.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to a new community with COPD requires careful planning and consideration of transportation and healthcare access. Uniontown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44685), offers a blend of advantages and disadvantages. While the proximity to hospitals and specialist care is a significant benefit, the limited public transit options and the reliance on ride-sharing services require careful evaluation. The final COPD Score will provide a comprehensive assessment, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and quality of life. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone considering moving to Uniontown and managing COPD.