26142, Davisville, West Virginia COPD Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the COPD Score in 26142, Davisville, West Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.12 percent of residents in 26142 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Camden Clark Medical Center with a distance of 6.24 miles from the area.

## COPD Score: Navigating Healthcare in Davisville, WV (ZIP Code 26142)

The gentle hills and verdant landscapes of Davisville, West Virginia, offer a tranquil setting for those seeking respite. However, for individuals managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), the serenity of this rural haven must be balanced with the realities of healthcare access. This write-up, a "COPD Score" assessment, delves into the transportation landscape within and around ZIP code 26142, evaluating the ease and feasibility of accessing vital medical care, a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Davisville.

The core of this assessment revolves around the fundamental connection between transportation and healthcare access. For COPD patients, timely access to medical appointments, pulmonary rehabilitation, and emergency care is paramount. Factors such as drive times, public transit options, and the availability of specialized transport services directly impact the quality of life and the ability to manage the condition effectively. We will explore these factors, providing a comprehensive overview for those considering Davisville as a potential residence.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Davisville is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The network of roads, while scenic, presents both opportunities and challenges for COPD patients. The central artery is US Route 50, a major east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on US-50, residents can access the city of Parkersburg, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Parkersburg houses the primary healthcare facilities serving the area, including WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center, a vital resource for specialized pulmonary care and emergency services.

Westbound on US-50 offers access to smaller towns and eventually connects to Interstate 77, which provides a more rapid route north or south. However, this route requires navigating the occasional traffic, especially during peak hours. Secondary roads, such as State Route 14 and State Route 31, offer alternative routes, but these roads tend to be narrower and may present challenges for those with mobility limitations or during inclement weather.

The drive times, while generally manageable, are a critical consideration. For individuals with COPD, the physical exertion of driving, especially in hilly terrain, can exacerbate breathing difficulties. Furthermore, unpredictable delays due to traffic, construction, or weather can create significant stress and potentially compromise healthcare access. Therefore, careful planning and consideration of potential travel times are essential.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in and around Davisville are extremely limited. The Mid-Ohio Valley Transit Authority (MOVTA) provides some bus services in the Parkersburg area, but these routes are infrequent and do not directly serve Davisville. The MOVTA operates primarily within the city limits of Parkersburg and Vienna, with limited routes extending to surrounding areas.

For COPD patients, the lack of accessible public transit presents a significant challenge. The limited route options, coupled with the potential for long wait times and transfers, make public transportation a less viable option, particularly for those with compromised respiratory function. Furthermore, the availability of wheelchair-accessible buses is limited, potentially restricting access for individuals with mobility issues.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Parkersburg area, providing a potential alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Davisville itself may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the Parkersburg area, providing non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assisting with mobility challenges and providing a more comfortable and reliable transportation experience. However, the cost of these services can vary, and prior booking is often required.

**ADA Accessibility and Considerations**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and healthcare facilities. However, the implementation and enforcement of these regulations can vary. COPD patients should verify the accessibility features of any transportation service they utilize, including wheelchair access, ramps, and designated seating. Furthermore, they should confirm that healthcare facilities are ADA compliant, ensuring ease of access to examination rooms, waiting areas, and other essential services.

**Healthcare Facilities and Proximity**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a crucial factor in assessing healthcare access. As mentioned earlier, WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center in Parkersburg is the primary healthcare provider for residents of Davisville. This hospital offers a range of services, including pulmonary care, respiratory therapy, and emergency services. Other healthcare providers in the Parkersburg area include outpatient clinics, specialized medical practices, and pharmacies.

The drive time to these facilities, as discussed earlier, is generally manageable. However, the distance and the potential for traffic delays should be considered when planning medical appointments. For COPD patients, the ability to access prompt medical care is essential, and the proximity of healthcare facilities is a significant advantage.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The "COPD Score" for Davisville, WV (ZIP code 26142) reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the limited public transportation options and the potential challenges of driving for individuals with COPD present significant obstacles. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but these options come with associated costs and potential limitations.

For individuals with COPD considering moving to Davisville, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare access requirements is essential. Careful planning, including exploring all available transportation options, establishing a reliable network of support, and proactively communicating with healthcare providers, is crucial. By understanding the challenges and proactively addressing them, COPD patients can successfully navigate the transportation landscape and maintain their health and well-being in this tranquil, yet geographically constrained, community. The key to successful living in Davisville for COPD patients is meticulous planning and proactive engagement with the available resources, ensuring that healthcare access remains a manageable aspect of daily life.