45132, Highland, Ohio COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 45132, Highland, Ohio is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.64 percent of residents in 45132 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland District Hospital with a distance of 8.30 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 45132

Highland County, Ohio, ZIP code 45132, encompasses the charming village of Highland, a community nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant farmland. For individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the availability and accessibility of healthcare are paramount. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding 45132, providing a "COPD Score" assessment, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements for ensuring timely and convenient healthcare access. This information will be particularly valuable for those considering moving to Highland, Ohio, and needing to understand the realities of their transportation options.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare from Highland is State Route 124, which snakes its way east and west, connecting the village to larger towns and medical facilities. Heading west on SR-124, the drive to Highland District Hospital in Hillsboro, a critical access hospital, is a relatively short journey. Depending on traffic, this drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes. This proximity is a significant advantage for COPD patients, allowing for quick access to emergency care and routine appointments.

Further afield, the city of Chillicothe, approximately 30 miles north, offers a broader range of specialized medical services. The drive to Adena Regional Medical Center in Chillicothe, primarily via US Route 50, can take around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. While this journey is longer, the availability of specialized pulmonary care and other services in Chillicothe expands healthcare access for residents of 45132.

Eastward, the journey to Wilmington, Ohio, and the Clinton Memorial Hospital, usually involves a drive of about 30-40 minutes via SR-138 and SR-73. This route provides another viable option for healthcare, offering a different set of medical professionals and potentially shorter wait times. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can impact travel times, a crucial factor for COPD patients who may experience exacerbated symptoms during cold or damp conditions.

Public transportation options in Highland County are limited. Highland County Senior Citizens, Inc. provides a demand-response transportation service, primarily aimed at senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. This service, though not a fixed-route system, can be invaluable for COPD patients who are unable to drive or have difficulty navigating public transportation. However, it is essential to note that the service requires advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly during peak hours or for appointments outside of regular business hours. ADA accessibility is a key feature of this service, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can comfortably access transportation.

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft have a limited presence in Highland County. Availability is inconsistent and often depends on the time of day and the availability of drivers. Relying solely on ride-share services for regular medical appointments is generally not advisable. The unpredictable nature of ride-share availability can create significant stress for COPD patients, particularly during urgent situations or when weather conditions are unfavorable.

Medical transport services are available for patients who require specialized assistance. These services, provided by companies like MedTrans and various local ambulance services, offer transportation to and from medical appointments, including those requiring specialized equipment or medical personnel. While these services are essential for some COPD patients, they often come at a higher cost and require pre-arrangement.

The "COPD Score" for transportation and healthcare access in 45132 is moderate. The proximity to Highland District Hospital offers a significant advantage. However, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialized care in Chillicothe or Wilmington, combined with the limited public transportation and ride-share options, presents challenges. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but it comes with its own set of considerations.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Highland, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is essential. The ability to drive or the availability of a reliable caregiver is critical. Exploring the options provided by Highland County Senior Citizens, Inc., and understanding the limitations of ride-share services, is also important. Planning ahead, scheduling appointments in advance, and having a backup transportation plan are crucial for ensuring seamless healthcare access.

The overall "COPD Score" reflects the balance between the advantages of proximity to a local hospital and the disadvantages of limited public transportation and ride-share options. The score is further influenced by the availability of medical transport services and the need for careful planning and preparation to ensure consistent access to healthcare. The success of living in Highland with COPD hinges on proactive strategies, reliable transportation solutions, and a strong understanding of the local healthcare landscape.

The journey to healthcare in 45132 is a multifaceted one. The ease of access to Highland District Hospital is a positive factor, while the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care requires careful planning and a reliable mode of transportation. The limited public transit and ride-share options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport services. For those managing COPD, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial for ensuring timely and effective healthcare access, ultimately contributing to a better quality of life in this charming corner of Ohio.