44880, Sullivan, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 44880, Sullivan, Ohio is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

37.89 percent of residents in 44880 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 11.18 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sullivan, Ohio (ZIP Code 44880)

The rural heart of Ohio, nestled in ZIP Code 44880, presents a unique set of challenges for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Sullivan, a small village in Ashland County, offers a serene backdrop, yet its geographical isolation and limited **transportation** options can significantly impact **healthcare access**. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape for COPD patients considering **moving to Sullivan**, focusing on commute times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport.

The primary concern for COPD patients is the ease and reliability of reaching medical appointments. The ability to breathe comfortably, especially during travel, is paramount. This necessitates a careful evaluation of the available **transportation** infrastructure and its suitability for individuals with respiratory limitations.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Sullivan's location dictates reliance on personal vehicles for most medical appointments. The village is primarily served by State Route 224, a two-lane highway that connects it to larger towns and cities. Traveling east on SR-224 offers access to Ashland, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, where Ashland Hospital provides essential healthcare services. Further east, SR-224 leads to Wooster, a 30-40 minute journey, offering a wider array of specialized medical facilities.

Heading west on SR-224 leads to Lodi, a 15-20 minute drive, and eventually to Medina, a 30-40 minute trip. Medina boasts a larger medical center, Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital, offering advanced care options. The drive times are estimates and can vary depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the patient's physical condition.

Other roadways that may be utilized include SR-58, which runs north-south and intersects SR-224. This route provides access to nearby communities and can be a secondary option for reaching healthcare facilities, although it may involve more rural roads. County Road 140 and County Road 175 are local roads that offer connectivity within the immediate vicinity of Sullivan.

The condition of the roadways is generally well-maintained, but seasonal weather, especially winter snow and ice, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Patients must consider the potential for delays and plan accordingly, especially when **moving to Sullivan**.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in ZIP Code 44880 are extremely limited. Ashland County-West Holmes Career Center offers a public transit system, but service is primarily focused on educational and vocational needs. It is unlikely that this system would provide convenient or regular access to healthcare facilities for COPD patients.

The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The absence of fixed-route buses or accessible paratransit services directly impacts **healthcare access** and can lead to increased social isolation for those with mobility limitations. The absence of public transit is a major factor to consider when evaluating the suitability of **moving to Sullivan** for COPD patients.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the broader area, but their presence in Sullivan is not guaranteed. Availability can be sporadic, and wait times may be lengthy, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is therefore questionable.

Medical **transportation** services are an essential consideration. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assisting patients with mobility challenges and ensuring a comfortable journey.

Medicaid may cover the cost of medical **transportation** for eligible individuals. Patients should contact their healthcare providers or local social services agencies to inquire about eligibility and available providers.

Specific medical **transportation** brands that may serve the area include:

* **First Medical Transport:** A regional provider offering non-emergency medical transport.
* **MedStar Ambulance:** Primarily an ambulance service, but may provide non-emergency transport depending on the patient's needs and insurance coverage.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Ashland County has local ambulance services that may offer non-emergency **transportation** on a case-by-case basis.

The cost of medical **transportation** can be a significant financial burden, particularly for those with limited incomes. Patients should explore all available options, including insurance coverage, Medicaid, and potential financial assistance programs.

**ADA Accessibility Considerations:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public **transportation** and facilities. While the lack of public transit is a major issue, healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas are generally ADA-compliant. Patients should confirm the accessibility features of each facility, including wheelchair access, ramps, and accessible restrooms.

When considering **moving to Sullivan**, it's important to assess the accessibility of the patient's home and the ease of navigating local businesses and services.

**Overall COPD Score and Recommendations:**

The COPD Score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 44880 is low. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant challenges for COPD patients.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When considering **moving to Sullivan**, prioritize housing options that are close to SR-224 and healthcare facilities in Ashland or Medina.
* **Assess Driving Capabilities:** Evaluate the patient's ability to drive safely and comfortably. If driving is problematic, explore alternative **transportation** options.
* **Investigate Medical Transport:** Research and establish relationships with reliable medical **transportation** providers. Understand insurance coverage and costs.
* **Plan for Weather:** Account for seasonal weather conditions and potential travel delays.
* **Explore Support Networks:** Connect with local support groups or social services agencies that can provide assistance with **transportation** or other needs.
* **Contact Healthcare Providers:** Discuss **transportation** challenges with the patient's healthcare providers and seek their recommendations for navigating the healthcare system.
* **Advocate for Improved Transit:** Advocate for the expansion of public **transportation** options in the area to improve **healthcare access** for all residents.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Sullivan, Ohio, requires careful planning and consideration for COPD patients. The challenges posed by limited **transportation** options necessitate proactive strategies to ensure timely and reliable access to medical care. By understanding the available resources, planning for potential obstacles, and advocating for improved **transportation** infrastructure, individuals can enhance their quality of life and maintain their health while **moving to Sullivan**. The COPD Score highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning, leveraging available resources, and advocating for improved **healthcare access** within this rural Ohio community.