25247, Hartford, West Virginia COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 25247, Hartford, West Virginia is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.52 percent of residents in 25247 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pleasant Valley Hospital, Inc with a distance of 11.77 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 25247

The journey to healthcare, a fundamental human right, takes on a particular significance for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This respiratory ailment, characterized by airflow obstruction, necessitates regular medical attention, making efficient and reliable transportation paramount. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 25247, providing a COPD Score assessment, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. This information is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Hartford, West Virginia, and seeking optimal healthcare access.

ZIP Code 25247 encompasses the town of Hartford, nestled along the Ohio River in Mason County. The primary arterial routes influencing healthcare access are **U.S. Route 33** and **West Virginia Route 2**. These highways, while providing direct access to larger towns with medical facilities, can present challenges. Rural roads are often winding, and during inclement weather, travel can be treacherous, impacting COPD patients' ability to attend appointments.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics constitute a critical component of the COPD Score. The closest major medical facility is **Pleasant Valley Hospital** in Point Pleasant, approximately a 20-minute drive via **U.S. Route 33**. This relatively short commute is a positive factor. However, travel times can fluctuate significantly based on traffic, especially during peak hours or when emergency services are responding. Further, the availability of specialized pulmonology services and the need for more advanced care might necessitate travel to larger hospitals in Charleston, West Virginia, or even Columbus, Ohio, increasing travel times and adding complexity.

Public transit, an essential alternative for those unable to drive or lacking access to personal vehicles, presents limited options in this rural setting. The **Mason County Transit Authority** provides demand-response transportation, requiring advance booking. While this service offers a lifeline for some, its availability is restricted by operating hours and geographical limitations. Furthermore, the accessibility of these services for individuals with disabilities, including those using mobility aids, is a vital consideration. The availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and the ease of booking appointments are critical factors in assessing the COPD Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer on-demand transportation, but their presence in 25247 is limited. Availability might be inconsistent, and surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather could pose a financial burden. Dependability is crucial for COPD patients, who require timely transportation to appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services in this area will affect the COPD Score.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs, play a crucial role. **Medicaid-approved transportation providers** offer non-emergency medical transportation, often covering the cost of travel to and from medical appointments. These services usually require pre-booking and may have limitations regarding geographical coverage. However, their availability is a significant positive factor, providing a reliable transportation option for COPD patients. The COPD Score must account for the ease of accessing and utilizing these services.

The COPD Score also considers the availability of **pharmacy services**. Proximity to pharmacies and the ease of obtaining prescriptions are essential for managing COPD. The presence of local pharmacies within the ZIP Code and the availability of prescription delivery services contribute positively to the score. Furthermore, the availability of oxygen supplies and respiratory equipment within the community is a crucial element of healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Hartford, West Virginia, and managing COPD, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is paramount. The COPD Score provides a framework for evaluating the accessibility of healthcare services. The availability of reliable transportation, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is a critical factor in managing this chronic condition.

The overall COPD Score for ZIP Code 25247 is moderately positive. The proximity to Pleasant Valley Hospital is a significant advantage. However, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of Medicaid-approved medical transport services and the presence of local pharmacies contribute positively.

To improve the COPD Score, efforts should focus on enhancing public transit options, ensuring the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles, and increasing the reliability of ride-sharing services. Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transport services and ensuring their accessibility for all residents is essential. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and expansion, can also reduce drive times and improve healthcare access.

Ultimately, the COPD Score is not just a number; it reflects the quality of life for individuals managing a chronic respiratory illness. By understanding the transportation landscape and addressing its challenges, the community can ensure that residents of ZIP Code 25247 have access to the healthcare they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The ability to navigate the complexities of transportation is essential for healthcare access, and is a crucial factor when considering moving to Hartford.