43746, Hopewell, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43746, Hopewell, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.88 percent of residents in 43746 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 8.44 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hopewell (ZIP Code 43746)

Moving to a new area, especially with health considerations like asthma, demands meticulous planning. This assessment focuses on healthcare access in Hopewell, Ohio (ZIP Code 43746), evaluating the transportation landscape and its impact on individuals managing asthma. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements in determining a practical "Asthma Score" for this community.

Hopewell, nestled in rural southeastern Ohio, presents unique transportation challenges. The area's geographical features, including rolling hills and sparsely populated regions, influence the accessibility of healthcare facilities. The primary concern is the availability of prompt medical attention during an asthma exacerbation. The ease of getting to a doctor's office, urgent care, or emergency room directly impacts the quality of life for asthmatics.

**Drive Times: The Primary Route**

For most residents, personal vehicles are the cornerstone of transportation. The primary route to healthcare centers in the region involves navigating the local road network. The closest hospital, Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center in Cambridge, is approximately 20 miles away.

Taking **State Route 26** south to **Interstate 77** north provides the most direct route. Under normal traffic conditions, this drive usually takes around 30 to 40 minutes. However, this time can fluctuate considerably depending on weather, time of day, and any traffic incidents along the way.

Another option is to travel west on **State Route 146** to **Interstate 77** north. This route is slightly longer, potentially adding 10 to 15 minutes to the journey. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and safety, a critical factor for those with asthma.

During an asthma attack, every minute counts. Therefore, the reliability and speed of these routes are paramount. Consider the potential for delays due to road closures, accidents, or adverse weather conditions. These variables can significantly increase the time it takes to reach medical care, potentially worsening the severity of an asthma episode.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Hopewell are extremely limited. The area is not served by a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of readily available public transportation is a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

The **Southeastern Ohio Transit Authority (SEOTA)** provides limited bus services in the region, but its routes and schedules may not adequately serve the needs of residents in Hopewell. The bus routes are infrequent and may not offer direct connections to medical facilities.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for individuals with disabilities. While SEOTA strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency and route coverage can pose challenges. This is a significant consideration for individuals with asthma who may also have other mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. This uncertainty can be a major concern for asthmatics who may require immediate transportation to a medical facility.

Medical transportation services, such as **MedStar** and **American Medical Response (AMR)**, are available for non-emergency and emergency medical transport. These services are designed to provide safe and efficient transportation for individuals with medical needs.

However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage may vary. Furthermore, the response time for these services can be affected by the distance and availability of ambulances or medical transport vehicles. This factor is critical for asthmatics experiencing severe symptoms.

**Healthcare Access: Assessing the Landscape**

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is another crucial aspect of healthcare access. Besides Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center, several smaller clinics and urgent care centers are located in surrounding towns.

These facilities offer varying levels of care and may have different operating hours. It's essential to research the specific services offered by each facility, including their capacity to treat asthma-related emergencies.

The availability of specialized asthma care, such as pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, is also a critical factor. Individuals with severe asthma may require regular consultations with these specialists. Access to these services can be limited in rural areas, necessitating longer travel times to reach specialized care providers.

**Moving to Hopewell: Considerations for Asthmatics**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Hopewell, a thorough assessment of transportation and healthcare access is essential. The lack of robust public transit and the potential for delays in ride-sharing services necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged medical transport.

The Asthma Score for Hopewell would be influenced by the drive times to medical facilities, the reliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability of medical transport. The limited public transit options would negatively impact the score.

Prospective residents should also consider the availability of local pharmacies and their ability to provide asthma medications and supplies. The proximity to emergency services and the response times of ambulances are also crucial factors to evaluate.

Ultimately, the decision to move to Hopewell should be based on a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare access landscape and its potential impact on the individual's asthma management. Careful planning, including establishing a reliable transportation plan and identifying readily available medical resources, is essential for ensuring the best possible health outcomes.