43135, Laurelville, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43135, Laurelville, Ohio is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.67 percent of residents in 43135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berger Hospital with a distance of 15.15 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43135**

Laurelville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43135), a charming village nestled in the rolling hills, presents a unique set of transportation challenges for residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like asthma. Assessing healthcare access involves more than just the presence of medical facilities; it demands a thorough examination of commute times, available transportation options, and the overall accessibility of these resources. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score" for the area, considers these factors to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing individuals with asthma seeking healthcare.

The primary hurdle for Laurelville residents is the relative isolation. While the village offers a tranquil lifestyle, it lacks the immediate proximity to specialized medical care found in larger metropolitan areas. This reality significantly impacts the "Asthma Score," particularly concerning drive times. The nearest major healthcare hubs, including hospitals and specialist clinics, are primarily located in Circleville (approximately 15-20 minutes away), Lancaster (around 25-35 minutes), and Columbus (roughly 45-60 minutes).

The primary routes connecting Laurelville to these healthcare destinations are US Route 35, Ohio State Route 56, and occasionally, Ohio State Route 188. US Route 35, a major east-west artery, provides the most direct access to Circleville. Ohio State Route 56, traversing north and south, offers a route to Lancaster. The journey to Columbus typically involves a combination of these routes, often culminating in a stretch on Interstate 270, the outerbelt surrounding the city.

The "Asthma Score" must account for the unpredictable nature of driving. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend commute times, especially when traveling to Columbus. Adverse weather conditions, common in Ohio, can further complicate matters. Snow, ice, and heavy rain can lead to delays and increase the risk of accidents, potentially exacerbating the stress and anxiety associated with an asthma attack.

Public transit options are limited in Laurelville and the surrounding area. The lack of a robust public transportation system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a car or are unable to drive. The absence of regular bus routes, for instance, severely restricts the ability of individuals to reach medical appointments, especially those requiring frequent visits.

While specific bus routes may not directly serve Laurelville, the local transit authority might offer demand-response services, such as dial-a-ride programs, which require advance booking and may not always be readily available. These services are often geared towards elderly and disabled individuals. However, the availability and reliability of these options should be carefully considered when evaluating the "Asthma Score."

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical component of the "Asthma Score." Any available public transit options must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. This includes features like ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the lack of public transit in the area means this is less of a factor.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, but their availability and affordability in Laurelville are variable. The presence of these services, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, cannot be guaranteed. Ride-sharing costs can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring non-emergency medical transport, represent another consideration. These services, provided by companies like First Transit or Medical Transport, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services must be factored into the "Asthma Score." The cost can be a barrier for many.

The "Asthma Score" must also consider the availability of urgent care facilities and pharmacies within Laurelville. The presence of these local resources can mitigate the need for immediate travel to distant hospitals for minor medical needs or medication refills. However, the limited scope of these facilities underscores the importance of reliable transportation to larger healthcare providers for specialized care.

The decision to move to Laurelville, for individuals managing asthma, requires careful consideration of these transportation and healthcare access factors. While the village offers a peaceful environment, the potential challenges in accessing timely and appropriate medical care must be weighed against the benefits of rural living. The "Asthma Score" provides a framework for this evaluation, highlighting the need for proactive planning and consideration of alternative transportation options.

The "Asthma Score" is not a static measure; it is dynamic. It should be regularly updated to reflect changes in transportation infrastructure, the availability of healthcare services, and the emergence of new transportation technologies. For instance, the potential expansion of ride-sharing services or the introduction of local shuttle programs could positively impact the score.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for ZIP Code 43135 is a complex calculation, weighing the benefits of rural living against the challenges of healthcare access. The score reflects the importance of individual planning, the need for community support, and the potential for innovative transportation solutions to improve the quality of life for residents managing asthma. The score also serves as a reminder that moving to Laurelville requires careful consideration of these transportation and healthcare access factors.