43727, Chandlersville, Ohio Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 43727, Chandlersville, Ohio is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

38.15 percent of residents in 43727 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.68 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 11.75 miles from the area.

**Arthritis Score: Commute to Healthcare in Chandlersville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43727)**

The quaint village of Chandlersville, Ohio, nestled in the rolling hills of Muskingum County, presents a unique set of challenges for residents managing arthritis. The very factors that contribute to its charm – rural setting, limited public transportation, and dispersed healthcare facilities – can significantly impact healthcare access. This "Arthritis Score" assesses the ease of commuting to healthcare, a critical factor for individuals with arthritis who require regular medical appointments, physical therapy, and medication refills. We will delve into the available transportation options, considering drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to provide a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Chandlersville or currently residing there.

Chandlersville, a community of approximately 300 residents, offers a peaceful lifestyle, but its location presents a hurdle to healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in Zanesville, approximately 15 miles to the west. This distance, while seemingly manageable, can be amplified by factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and the physical limitations imposed by arthritis. For those seeking specialized care, such as rheumatology or orthopedic services, the commute becomes even more critical.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Chandlersville is the personal vehicle. Driving times to Zanesville are typically between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination. The most direct route involves traveling west on State Route 146, a two-lane road that winds through the scenic countryside. This route offers relatively smooth driving conditions, but can be subject to delays during peak traffic hours, especially near Zanesville.

Alternatively, drivers can utilize State Route 60, which intersects with State Route 146. This route can be slightly longer, but offers a more direct connection to some areas of Zanesville. The condition of these roads is generally well-maintained, though winter weather can pose a significant challenge, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations. Ice and snow can make driving hazardous, necessitating careful planning and potentially delaying or canceling appointments.

Public transportation options in Chandlersville are extremely limited. The Muskingum County Transit System (MCTS) provides demand-response service within the county, but its availability and frequency are limited, especially in rural areas. MCTS operates on a reservation basis, requiring advance notice for scheduling rides. While the system is designed to be ADA-accessible, with features such as wheelchair lifts and accessible vehicles, the limited service area and potential for long wait times pose a significant barrier for those with arthritis.

The lack of readily available public transit underscores the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. For individuals unable to drive, ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in Zanesville, but their presence in Chandlersville is less consistent. Availability is dependent on driver density and demand, which can be unpredictable in a rural setting. This unreliability necessitates careful planning and potentially long wait times, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during their commute. Several medical transport providers operate in the Zanesville area, offering services such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained medical staff. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking, limiting spontaneity and adding to the complexity of healthcare access.

The Arthritis Score for Chandlersville, therefore, reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. While the drive to Zanesville is relatively short, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for individuals with arthritis. The lack of readily available transportation options necessitates careful planning, potentially long wait times, and the added expense of medical transport services.

For those considering moving to Chandlersville, the accessibility of healthcare should be a paramount consideration. The need for regular medical appointments, physical therapy, and medication refills requires reliable and convenient transportation. Individuals with arthritis should carefully assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The quality of life for individuals with arthritis in Chandlersville is inextricably linked to their ability to access healthcare. The challenges posed by rural location and limited transportation options can significantly impact their ability to manage their condition, maintain their independence, and participate in community life. Careful planning, proactive resource management, and a willingness to adapt to the limitations of the local transportation infrastructure are essential for ensuring healthcare access and maintaining a high quality of life in this charming, yet geographically challenging, community.

The "Arthritis Score" for Chandlersville, Ohio, highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful and serene environment, the lack of readily available transportation options presents a significant challenge for individuals with arthritis. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness to ensure access to essential medical care.