45053, Okeana, Ohio Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 45053, Okeana, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.99 percent of residents in 45053 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mccullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.75 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commute to Healthcare in Okeana, OH (ZIP Code 45053)

The tranquil village of Okeana, Ohio, nestled within ZIP code 45053, offers a peaceful setting, a draw for those seeking respite from the frenetic pace of city life. However, for individuals and families navigating the complexities of Alzheimer's disease, the seemingly simple act of accessing healthcare can become a significant challenge. This analysis, the "Alzheimer's Score," delves into the transportation landscape of Okeana, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities, a crucial factor when considering a move or supporting a loved one in this community. The score assesses the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments, considering various modes of transportation and their suitability for individuals with cognitive impairments.

Okeana's location, while charming, presents a unique set of transportation considerations. The village is primarily served by local roads, with limited public transit options. The nearest major healthcare facilities are located in surrounding cities, necessitating travel by car, ride-share, or specialized medical transport. This reliance on private or contracted transportation underscores the importance of careful planning and understanding the available resources. The Alzheimer's Score will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each mode of transportation, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within the 45053 ZIP code.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Okeana is the automobile. While the village itself is small, the journey to medical appointments often involves navigating the network of highways and roads that connect Okeana to surrounding areas. The primary route to the larger cities, where hospitals and specialized clinics are located, involves traveling on **Ohio State Route 128**, a two-lane road that can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. This route leads to the north, connecting to **US-127**, which in turn provides access to **I-70** and **I-74**, major interstate highways that lead to healthcare hubs like Cincinnati and Dayton.

Driving times can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions and the destination. A trip to a hospital in Hamilton, Ohio, might take approximately 30-45 minutes, while a journey to Cincinnati could stretch to an hour or more. These estimates assume ideal traffic conditions, which are rarely the case. For individuals with Alzheimer's, longer travel times can exacerbate anxiety and disorientation, making the need for reliable and comfortable transportation even more critical. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the impact of these drive times on the overall accessibility of healthcare.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Okeana are limited. The Butler County Regional Transit Authority (BCRTA) provides bus service throughout Butler County, but service to Okeana is infrequent and may not be directly accessible to all healthcare facilities. The BCRTA offers ADA-compliant buses, equipped with features like ramps and wheelchair securements, essential for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the routes and schedules may not align with medical appointment times, and the need for transfers could be challenging for those with cognitive impairments.

The nearest BCRTA routes to Okeana, likely requiring a transfer, are found along **Hamilton-Cleves Road** and **Ross Road**. These routes are not ideal for direct access to healthcare facilities, and the wait times and potential for confusion associated with public transit can be significant barriers. The Alzheimer's Score will assess the practicality of using public transportation for healthcare appointments, considering the frequency of service, route accessibility, and the potential for challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, but availability in Okeana can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a concern, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The Alzheimer's Score will consider the reliability and affordability of ride-sharing services, recognizing their potential limitations in a rural setting.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including:

* **CareRide:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Transit:** Offers a range of transportation services, including medical transport, with a focus on accessibility.
* **Medicaid Transportation Providers:** Many local transportation providers are contracted by Medicaid to provide transportation services for eligible individuals.

These services offer door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility and providing support during the journey. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and prior booking is often required. The Alzheimer's Score will evaluate the availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services, recognizing their crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with Alzheimer's.

**Healthcare Access and Okeana's Appeal:**

When considering a move to Okeana, or supporting a loved one, it is crucial to assess the practicality of healthcare access. The reliance on private transportation, limited public transit, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services are all factors that must be considered. The Alzheimer's Score will provide a nuanced understanding of the transportation landscape, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for individuals with Alzheimer's in accessing healthcare.

Okeana's appeal, with its peaceful setting and sense of community, can be a strong draw. However, the practicalities of healthcare access must be carefully weighed. The Alzheimer's Score will offer a valuable tool for prospective residents and families, enabling them to make informed decisions and plan for the transportation needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. This score, in conjunction with other factors, will help in the decision-making process and contribute to a more informed and compassionate approach to healthcare access in the village of Okeana. The goal is to ensure that the beauty of Okeana is accessible to all, including those navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's disease.