25671, Dingess, West Virginia COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 25671, Dingess, West Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.90 percent of residents in 25671 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Logan Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.93 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dingess, WV (ZIP Code 25671)

The crisp mountain air of Dingess, West Virginia (ZIP Code 25671), offers a certain allure. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the very landscape that draws them in can pose a significant challenge. This write-up assesses the accessibility of healthcare within and from this rural community, focusing on transportation options and their impact on the ability to receive timely and effective medical care. We will evaluate the "COPD Score" for this ZIP code, considering the crucial link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**, particularly for those considering **moving to Dingess**.

Dingess, nestled in Mingo County, presents a unique set of circumstances. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in larger towns, necessitating travel. This geographical reality directly impacts the COPD patient's ability to manage their condition. Regular appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and emergency care are vital, and their accessibility hinges on reliable **transportation**.

The primary mode of **transportation** in and out of Dingess is the automobile. The primary arteries are **West Virginia Route 10**, a winding two-lane highway that connects Dingess to the larger towns of Williamson and Logan. **West Virginia Route 65** provides a more direct route to Logan, albeit with its own set of challenges. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and the safety of patients with respiratory difficulties.

The drive to Williamson, the nearest town with a hospital (Williamson Memorial Hospital), is approximately 20-30 minutes via WV-10, assuming favorable conditions. This time can easily double or triple during adverse weather or traffic congestion. Logan, the county seat, offers a broader range of medical services, including specialists and more advanced care at Logan Regional Medical Center. The drive to Logan via WV-65 is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, again, contingent on road conditions.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Dingess. The Mingo County Public Transit Authority (MCPTA) provides some services. However, its routes are infrequent and may not be directly tailored to medical appointments. The MCPTA primarily operates on a demand-response basis, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance, which may not be ideal for urgent care or sudden exacerbations of COPD. The availability of vehicles with **ADA** (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, such as wheelchair lifts, is crucial for some COPD patients, and this should be confirmed with the MCPTA before relying on this option.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in Dingess and the surrounding areas. This leaves patients with limited options. The reliance on personal vehicles or the MCPTA places a significant burden on individuals, especially those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive due to their condition.

Medical **transportation** services are a critical lifeline for many COPD patients in rural areas. Several companies offer specialized medical **transportation**, including non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) and ambulance services. These services can provide door-to-door **transportation** to medical appointments, dialysis, and other healthcare needs.

The availability of NEMT services in Dingess is crucial. Several providers serve the region, including but not limited to: AMR (American Medical Response), and Med-Trans. These companies offer varying levels of service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients during transport. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, type of service required, and the patient's insurance coverage.

The "COPD Score" for Dingess, WV (25671) is relatively low. The limited **transportation** options, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the potential for adverse weather conditions create significant barriers to **healthcare access** for COPD patients. The lack of readily available public **transportation**, the absence of ride-sharing services, and the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-scheduled NEMT services contribute to a challenging environment for managing this chronic condition.

For individuals considering **moving to Dingess** with COPD, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs is paramount. They must investigate the availability and reliability of NEMT services, understand the limitations of the MCPTA, and factor in the potential for increased travel times during inclement weather. They should also proactively establish relationships with local healthcare providers and explore options for telehealth appointments to minimize the need for frequent travel.

The ideal scenario would include expanded public **transportation** options, improved road infrastructure, and a greater presence of ride-sharing services. Furthermore, increased access to telehealth services and home healthcare visits could significantly improve **healthcare access** for COPD patients in Dingess.

The availability of emergency services is another critical factor. The response time for ambulances, particularly during adverse weather, can be a matter of life and death for COPD patients experiencing a respiratory crisis. The proximity of the nearest hospital and the efficiency of the emergency medical services (EMS) system are crucial considerations.

The community's support system is also vital. Family members, friends, and neighbors can play a crucial role in providing **transportation** assistance, emotional support, and practical help with daily tasks. Building a strong support network is essential for managing COPD in a rural setting.

In conclusion, while Dingess offers the tranquility of rural living, it presents significant challenges for COPD patients regarding **healthcare access**. The limited **transportation** options, the distance to medical facilities, and the potential for adverse weather conditions necessitate careful planning and proactive management. Individuals considering **moving to Dingess** with COPD must conduct a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs, explore all available resources, and establish a robust support system to ensure they can receive the timely and effective medical care they require. The "COPD Score" for this ZIP code underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve **healthcare access** and support the well-being of individuals living with COPD in this unique and beautiful, yet geographically challenging, community. The focus should be on improving **transportation** options and supporting the existing medical **transportation** services to improve the quality of life for those living with COPD.