24245, Dungannon, Virginia COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 24245, Dungannon, Virginia is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

17.42 percent of residents in 24245 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lonesome Pine Hospital with a distance of 16.13 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dungannon, Virginia (ZIP Code 24245)

The crisp mountain air of Dungannon, Virginia, offers a certain allure, a sense of peace that draws individuals seeking respite from the relentless pace of modern life. Yet, for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the very essence of this tranquility can be complicated by the challenges of healthcare access. Assessing the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities is paramount, especially for those whose respiratory health demands prompt and reliable care. This write-up provides a COPD Score assessment, focusing on transportation options within ZIP Code 24245, aiming to shed light on the realities of healthcare access for potential and current residents.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Dungannon is undoubtedly the automobile. The vast majority of residents rely on personal vehicles for transportation, making drive times a crucial factor in our COPD Score calculation. For those needing specialized pulmonary care, the nearest hospitals with dedicated respiratory departments are located in the surrounding towns.

The primary route to these facilities involves navigating the winding roads and highways of Southwest Virginia. To reach Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, Tennessee, a common destination for specialized care, residents typically embark on a journey via **US-58 East** and then transition onto **I-26 West**. This drive, covering approximately 30 miles, can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the driver's pace. The route, while scenic, can be challenging during inclement weather, potentially increasing travel times and posing a risk for individuals with breathing difficulties.

Alternatively, for services like pulmonary rehabilitation, residents might consider the short drive to Lonesome Pine Hospital in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. The route involves taking **VA-58 East** and then **US-23 North**, a journey of approximately 15 miles that can be completed in about 20-30 minutes. This option, while closer, may not offer the full spectrum of specialized pulmonary care available at larger hospitals.

The COPD Score also considers the limitations of public transportation in Dungannon. The area's sparse population density and rugged terrain make public transit a less viable option. Currently, there are no established bus routes or public transportation systems that directly serve Dungannon. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals who cannot drive or who have limited access to a personal vehicle. The absence of this crucial element of transportation significantly lowers the COPD Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region but their availability in Dungannon is sporadic. The limited presence of these services, coupled with potentially higher fares due to the rural location, presents another barrier to healthcare access. Relying on ride-sharing for regular appointments or emergency situations is therefore not a reliable option for most residents.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized approach. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the availability of these services in Dungannon, and the associated costs, must be carefully considered. Researching the specific providers that service the area, their pricing structures, and their ability to accommodate COPD patients is crucial.

Considering the limited public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles, the COPD Score for Dungannon reflects the challenges faced by individuals with COPD. The score is influenced by the drive times to healthcare facilities, the lack of readily available public transportation, and the sporadic nature of ride-sharing services.

For individuals considering moving to Dungannon with COPD, careful planning is essential. Assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities, understanding the potential travel times, and exploring the availability of medical transportation services are critical steps. It is also essential to consider the potential impact of weather conditions on travel and to factor in the costs associated with transportation.

The COPD Score also considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities. While the major hospitals in the region are generally compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring that the specific facilities and departments a patient needs to access are fully accessible is important. This includes checking for wheelchair accessibility, the availability of oxygen support, and other accommodations to meet the needs of individuals with respiratory conditions.

Furthermore, the COPD Score is affected by the need for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care. These factors underscore the importance of a reliable transportation plan. Individuals with COPD must be prepared for potential delays and challenges in reaching healthcare facilities, especially during inclement weather or unexpected health crises.

The score is also impacted by the availability of support services within the community. The presence of local pharmacies, respiratory therapists, and support groups can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with COPD. These resources can provide education, support, and access to necessary medications and equipment, reducing the need for frequent trips to distant healthcare facilities.

The COPD Score is a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on evolving transportation options, healthcare infrastructure improvements, and individual needs. The information presented here is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and considerations associated with healthcare access for individuals with COPD in Dungannon, Virginia.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Dungannon with COPD requires careful consideration of all factors, including the availability and reliability of transportation, the proximity of healthcare facilities, and the support services available within the community. Understanding the COPD Score for this area empowers individuals to make informed decisions and to plan for their healthcare needs effectively. The goal is to ensure that residents of Dungannon, regardless of their respiratory health challenges, can access the care they need to live fulfilling lives.