25661, Williamson, West Virginia COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 25661, Williamson, West Virginia is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.19 percent of residents in 25661 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Logan Regional Medical Center with a distance of 19.29 miles from the area.

**COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Williamson, WV (ZIP Code 25661)**

The air hangs heavy in the Tug Valley, a reality for residents of Williamson, West Virginia, and particularly challenging for those managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within ZIP code 25661, focusing on healthcare access for individuals living with COPD. We'll examine drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability to determine a "COPD Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching medical appointments. This score will help inform decisions about healthcare access and the feasibility of moving to Williamson.

The primary consideration is the impact of limited mobility on COPD patients. Shortness of breath, fatigue, and the need for frequent medical intervention make reliable, accessible transportation paramount. The COPD Score will reflect the reality of navigating the terrain, considering the challenges of weather, road conditions, and the availability of alternative transportation options.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

Williamson's geography presents a significant hurdle. The town is nestled in a narrow valley, with the Tug Fork River as its spine. The primary artery is US Route 119, a vital corridor connecting Williamson to surrounding communities and healthcare facilities. Driving to the nearest hospitals, such as Logan Regional Medical Center in Logan, WV, approximately 30 miles away, can take an hour or more, depending on traffic and road conditions. The winding nature of US-119, particularly through the rugged terrain, can exacerbate breathing difficulties.

Smaller roads, like WV Route 49, provide access to local clinics and physician offices. However, these roads are often narrower, with limited shoulders, and are prone to landslides, especially during heavy rainfall. The condition of these roads can impact drive times and the safety of those with breathing difficulties. The drive to the Williamson Health and Rehabilitation Center, located within the city limits, is generally shorter, providing easier access to some medical services.

The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another consideration. Limited parking, long walking distances from parking to the entrance, and the need for accessible parking spaces are all factors that can impact a COPD patient's experience. The COPD Score will reflect the availability of accessible parking and the overall ease of navigating the parking areas at the various healthcare facilities.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Williamson are limited. The Mingo County Public Transit Authority (MCPTA) provides bus service within the county. However, the routes are infrequent, and the service area may not cover all areas within the 25661 ZIP code. The availability of ADA-compliant buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. The MCPTA website should be consulted for route schedules, ADA accessibility information, and service limitations.

The COPD Score will consider the frequency of bus routes, the availability of ADA-compliant buses, and the overall accessibility of the public transit system. The score will also reflect the potential need for transfers, which can increase travel time and physical exertion for COPD patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, may have limited availability in Williamson. The COPD Score will reflect the frequency of ride-share services, the potential for long wait times, and the cost of these services. Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, may be available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and assistance with medical equipment.

The COPD Score will consider the availability, cost, and reliability of medical transportation services. The score will also reflect the potential need for advance booking and the availability of services that can accommodate medical equipment, such as oxygen tanks or wheelchairs.

**Healthcare Access and the COPD Score:**

The COPD Score will be a composite measure, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transportation services. The score will be categorized, for example, into “Excellent,” “Good,” “Fair,” or “Poor,” reflecting the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare. The score will also include recommendations for improving healthcare access in Williamson.

For example, a “Poor” score might indicate long drive times to healthcare facilities, limited public transportation options, and a lack of ride-share availability. This would suggest that individuals with COPD in Williamson face significant challenges in accessing medical care. The score will also address the need for improved transportation options, such as increased public transit routes, the expansion of ride-share services, and the availability of affordable medical transportation.

The COPD Score will also consider the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth can provide access to medical care without the need for travel, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with COPD. The score will reflect the availability of telehealth services and the ease of accessing these services.

**Moving to Williamson: A Consideration for COPD Patients:**

For individuals with COPD considering a move to Williamson, the COPD Score is a crucial factor. The score provides a realistic assessment of the challenges of accessing healthcare in the area. The score should be carefully considered alongside other factors, such as housing costs, employment opportunities, and the overall quality of life.

The COPD Score should be used as a tool to inform decisions about healthcare access and the feasibility of moving to Williamson. Individuals with COPD should research the transportation options, healthcare facilities, and support services available in the area. They should also consult with their healthcare providers to discuss their specific needs and concerns.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating the transportation landscape in Williamson, WV, presents unique challenges for individuals with COPD. The COPD Score provides a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, considering drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transportation options. This score is essential for residents and those considering moving to Williamson. The goal is to ensure individuals with COPD can access the healthcare they need to manage their condition and maintain their quality of life. The score will also highlight the need for improvements in the transportation infrastructure and healthcare services to support the health and well-being of the community.