44690, Winesburg, Ohio Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 44690, Winesburg, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

23.44 percent of residents in 44690 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 12.49 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Winesburg, OH (ZIP Code 44690)

The tranquil landscape of Winesburg, Ohio, nestled within the heart of Amish Country, holds a certain allure. For those considering a move, particularly individuals or families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, understanding **healthcare access** and **transportation** options is paramount. This "Alzheimer's Score" write-up delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 44690, aiming to provide a clear picture for informed decision-making.

Winesburg itself is a small, rural community. Its charm lies in its quietude, but this very characteristic shapes the accessibility of essential services. The nearest significant healthcare providers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This is a crucial factor when assessing the suitability of Winesburg for individuals with Alzheimer's, as the disease often presents challenges with mobility, memory, and orientation.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents is personal vehicles. Driving is the most direct route to healthcare. From Winesburg, the most common destinations for medical care are likely to be in Wooster (approximately 15 miles), Canton (approximately 30 miles), or Massillon (approximately 25 miles).

The journey to Wooster, home to Wooster Community Hospital, typically involves navigating local roads and then utilizing State Route 241. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, is roughly 20-30 minutes. The route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can present challenges, particularly for those with limited driving experience or cognitive impairments.

Canton, with its larger concentration of medical facilities, including Aultman Hospital, offers a wider range of specialized care. The drive to Canton from Winesburg usually involves taking State Route 241 south, merging onto U.S. Route 62, and then connecting to Interstate 77. This route, while primarily highway driving, can take 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic, especially during peak hours.

Massillon, another option, is accessible via State Route 241 south, connecting to U.S. Route 30, and then to State Route 21. The drive time is similar to Canton, about 40 minutes to an hour. The presence of Mercy Medical Center in Massillon provides another option for specialized care.

Public **transportation** options in Winesburg are limited. Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides some service in the general area, but its routes are infrequent and primarily focused on serving larger towns like Canton and Massillon. There is no direct bus service to Winesburg. Therefore, relying on public transit for healthcare appointments is generally not a viable option for residents of ZIP code 44690.

SARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and lifts, to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges. However, the infrequency of service and the need for transfers to reach healthcare facilities make this option impractical for many individuals with Alzheimer's. The lack of readily available public transport significantly impacts **healthcare access**.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader area, but their reliability and availability in rural locations like Winesburg can be inconsistent. Response times can be longer, and surge pricing may be a factor during peak hours or in inclement weather. This uncertainty makes ride-sharing a less dependable option for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are an alternative. Companies like First Call Medical Transportation and MedTrans offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically provide door-to-door assistance and can be a valuable resource for individuals unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, these services can be costly and require advance booking.

For those **moving to Winesburg** with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's, the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation becomes a critical consideration. The absence of convenient public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and budgeting for transportation to healthcare appointments. The availability of family support or the need for professional caregivers becomes even more significant.

The assessment of **healthcare access** in Winesburg must also consider the availability of specialized Alzheimer's care. While the community itself may not have dedicated memory care facilities, the surrounding towns offer options. However, accessing these facilities requires navigating the aforementioned **transportation** challenges.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Winesburg, Ohio, ZIP code 44690, reveals a mixed picture. The scenic beauty and peaceful environment may be appealing, but the limitations in **transportation** options and the reliance on driving or pre-arranged services present significant challenges for individuals with Alzheimer's. The lack of convenient public transit, coupled with the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, underscores the importance of careful planning and the need for robust support systems.

The journey to healthcare in Winesburg is not always straightforward. It requires careful consideration of individual needs, available resources, and the realities of rural living. The decision to relocate to Winesburg, for those affected by Alzheimer's, should be made with a clear understanding of the **transportation** landscape and the potential impact on **healthcare access**. This score is intended to provide a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities presented by this unique community.