43734, Duncan Falls, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43734, Duncan Falls, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.97 percent of residents in 43734 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 7.27 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Duncan Falls (ZIP Code 43734)

Considering a move to Duncan Falls, Ohio (ZIP Code 43734)? This analysis provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, focusing on transportation and healthcare access for individuals managing asthma. The score, though not a formal medical diagnosis, reflects the ease of accessing necessary medical care, factoring in commute times, public transit options, and available transportation services. This evaluation is vital for prospective residents, especially those prioritizing respiratory health.

Duncan Falls, nestled in the heart of the Muskingum Valley, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its relative remoteness presents unique challenges for healthcare access. The primary concern for asthma sufferers is the swift availability of medical attention during exacerbations. Therefore, this assessment prioritizes speed, reliability, and accessibility of transportation options to healthcare facilities.

**The Asthma Score is based on a scale of 1-10, with 1 representing extremely limited access and 10 representing excellent access. The score considers the following factors:**

* **Drive Times:** The duration of travel by car to the nearest healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability and reliability of public transit options.
* **Ride-Share Services:** The presence and accessibility of ride-share services.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability of specialized medical transportation services.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadway serving Duncan Falls is State Route 146, which connects to Interstate 77, a crucial north-south artery. Traveling to Zanesville, the nearest city with comprehensive healthcare, involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via State Route 146 and, potentially, a portion of State Route 60. The route is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times.

For residents needing specialized care, such as pulmonologists or emergency services, the drive to larger hospitals in Columbus, Ohio, or Parkersburg, West Virginia, becomes necessary. Columbus is roughly a 1.5-2 hour drive via I-77 North, while Parkersburg is approximately 1 hour via I-77 South. These longer distances necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

**Asthma Score Component: Drive Times - 7/10**

The relatively short drive to Zanesville provides a good starting point. However, the dependence on a personal vehicle and the longer distances to specialized care centers slightly diminish the score. Residents must be prepared for potential travel time fluctuations due to weather and traffic.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Duncan Falls are limited. The Muskingum County Transit (MCT) provides demand-response service, meaning rides are scheduled in advance. While MCT offers door-to-door service, its availability and frequency are restricted. This service is crucial for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The MCT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the scheduling process and potential wait times can be challenging during asthma emergencies. Furthermore, the limited operating hours and routes restrict its utility for routine healthcare appointments or urgent care needs.

**Asthma Score Component: Public Transportation - 3/10**

The presence of MCT provides a vital service for those without other transportation options. However, the limitations in frequency, scheduling, and potential delays significantly reduce its effectiveness for asthma sufferers requiring prompt medical attention.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Zanesville area, although their availability in Duncan Falls itself can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Reliance on ride-share services requires advanced planning and may involve longer wait times, potentially delaying access to medical care.

Specialized medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available in the region. These services, often provided by companies like MedTrans or First Transit, offer transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who cannot drive themselves. NEMT services are typically pre-booked and require coordination with healthcare providers.

**Asthma Score Component: Ride-Share & Medical Transportation - 5/10**

The presence of ride-share services, though potentially unreliable, provides a backup option. The availability of NEMT services offers a more dependable solution for scheduled appointments. However, the need for pre-booking and potential wait times for both services necessitates careful planning and coordination.

**Overall Asthma Score:**

Considering all factors, the overall Asthma Score for transportation and healthcare access in Duncan Falls (ZIP Code 43734) is **5/10**.

**Recommendations for Asthma Sufferers:**

* **Prioritize personal vehicle ownership:** The reliance on a personal vehicle is crucial for timely access to medical care.
* **Establish a relationship with a local healthcare provider:** Having a primary care physician in Zanesville or a nearby area is essential for ongoing asthma management.
* **Develop a transportation contingency plan:** Identify backup transportation options, including ride-share services, NEMT providers, and trusted friends or family members.
* **Familiarize yourself with emergency protocols:** Know the location of the nearest emergency room and the fastest route.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare:** When choosing a residence, prioritize locations with easy access to State Route 146 and I-77.
* **Maintain open communication with healthcare providers:** Regularly discuss transportation challenges and develop strategies to overcome them.

**Conclusion:**

While Duncan Falls offers a peaceful and attractive living environment, individuals with asthma must carefully consider the challenges associated with healthcare access. The relatively remote location and limited public transportation options necessitate proactive planning and reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation services. By understanding the transportation landscape and developing a comprehensive healthcare plan, asthma sufferers can successfully navigate the healthcare system and enjoy the benefits of residing in Duncan Falls. This Asthma Score analysis provides a framework for making informed decisions and ensuring optimal respiratory health in this charming Ohio community. This is crucial for those moving to Duncan Falls.