43725, Cambridge, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43725, Cambridge, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.97 percent of residents in 43725 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.11 miles from the area.

**Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43725 (Cambridge, Ohio)**

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change in Cambridge, Ohio, a town nestled in the heart of Appalachia. For individuals contemplating a move to this ZIP code, 43725, and particularly those managing asthma, understanding the practicalities of healthcare access is paramount. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the realities of transportation, a crucial factor in determining the ease and speed of reaching medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency care. The goal is to paint a vivid picture, allowing potential residents to assess the suitability of this location for their individual needs, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure.

The geography of Cambridge, situated in Guernsey County, shapes the landscape of transportation. The town is relatively compact, but access to specialized medical care often necessitates travel to larger regional centers. This reality underscores the importance of reliable transportation options, especially for those with asthma, where timely access to medication and treatment can be a matter of life and death.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times**

The primary arteries for vehicular transportation in and out of Cambridge are Interstate 77 (I-77) and U.S. Route 40. I-77, a major north-south highway, provides access to larger cities like Akron and Canton to the north and Charleston, West Virginia, to the south. U.S. Route 40, also known as the National Road, runs east-west, connecting Cambridge to Columbus and Wheeling, West Virginia.

For routine healthcare needs, residents of 43725 have several options within Cambridge itself. The local hospital, Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center (SEORMC), is a central hub for primary care, emergency services, and some specialized treatments. Drive times to SEORMC are generally short, typically under 10 minutes for most residents, dependent on traffic conditions.

Specialized care often requires travel. For example, a pulmonologist may be located in Zanesville, approximately 30 miles west of Cambridge, a drive that takes roughly 45 minutes via I-70 West and State Route 22. More advanced care, such as that offered by specialists in Columbus, might necessitate a drive of approximately 90 to 120 minutes, primarily via I-70 West. This journey necessitates careful planning, particularly for individuals with asthma who may experience exacerbations.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options within Cambridge are limited. The Guernsey County Transit System (GCTS) offers demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This service is crucial for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. However, the GCTS service area is primarily within Guernsey County, and the routes are not fixed, so the availability of rides to medical appointments outside the county is not guaranteed.

The GCTS does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. Riders with asthma should inquire about the air quality within the vehicles, particularly during peak seasons for allergies or when the vehicles are undergoing maintenance. Information about the transit system, including routes, schedules, and ADA features, is available on the Guernsey County website. The reliability and frequency of these services are essential considerations for those dependent on public transportation.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cambridge, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas outside the immediate town center. Reliance on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is therefore not recommended.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like First Call Medical Transportation and MedStar Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transport. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues. However, these services typically require advance booking, and the cost can be a significant factor.

**Pharmacies and Medication Access**

Access to pharmacies is a critical aspect of asthma management. Cambridge has several pharmacies, including chain pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, as well as independent pharmacies. These pharmacies offer prescription filling services, medication counseling, and over-the-counter asthma medications and supplies. The proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and medical facilities is a positive factor in the Asthma Score.

**Overall Asthma Score Considerations**

The Asthma Score for 43725 reflects a mixed picture. While Cambridge offers local healthcare options and pharmacy access, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. The variability of ride-sharing and the cost of medical transport further complicate the situation.

For individuals with well-controlled asthma, the local healthcare options and readily available pharmacies may suffice. However, for those with more severe asthma or who require frequent specialist visits, the transportation challenges necessitate careful consideration. The drive times to regional medical centers, the potential for delays, and the need for reliable transportation are all factors that could impact the Asthma Score.

**Recommendations for Potential Residents**

Prospective residents with asthma should thoroughly research their specific healthcare needs and assess the feasibility of accessing those services from 43725. This includes:

* **Contacting healthcare providers:** Confirming the availability of specialists and the ease of scheduling appointments.
* **Evaluating transportation options:** Assessing the reliability and cost of personal vehicles, public transportation, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.
* **Considering proximity to pharmacies:** Ensuring convenient access to pharmacies for medication refills and emergency supplies.
* **Planning for emergencies:** Developing a contingency plan for accessing emergency care, including understanding the protocols for calling an ambulance or utilizing medical transport services.

Moving to Cambridge can be a positive experience, but a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and healthcare access is essential for those managing asthma. By carefully evaluating these factors, potential residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure a smooth transition to their new home. The Asthma Score, therefore, is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that needs to be tailored to the individual's specific circumstances and healthcare requirements.