43754, Lewisville, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43754, Lewisville, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.04 percent of residents in 43754 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 14.51 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 43754

The air hangs heavy in Lewisville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43754), a rural community nestled amidst rolling hills. For individuals managing asthma, the quality of life hinges not only on effective medical care but also on the ease with which that care can be accessed. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of 43754, assessing the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking healthcare, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities. It’s a critical consideration for anyone moving to Lewisville.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the availability of medical professionals. In 43754, residents primarily rely on the Monroe County Health Department and the nearby Barnesville Hospital. However, specialized care, such as pulmonologists and allergists, often necessitates travel to larger cities like Wheeling, West Virginia, or Marietta, Ohio. This journey, however, is not always straightforward.

The primary mode of transportation in this region is the personal vehicle. Residents navigate a network of winding roads and highways, often impacted by seasonal weather conditions. The primary thoroughfare is **Ohio State Route 7**, a north-south artery that connects Lewisville to major population centers. Traveling north on Route 7 offers access to Wheeling, a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather. Southbound, Route 7 leads to Marietta, a journey of roughly an hour and a half.

Another crucial route is **Ohio State Route 26**, which intersects Route 7 near Lewisville. This east-west road provides access to smaller towns and connects to other regional highways. The condition of these roads, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times and pose challenges for individuals with asthma, who may be more susceptible to the effects of cold air and fluctuating temperatures.

Drive times are a significant factor in healthcare access. A sudden asthma exacerbation requires prompt medical attention. The ability to quickly reach a hospital or urgent care facility can be a matter of life and death. While Lewisville itself has limited immediate medical resources, the proximity to Barnesville Hospital, a drive of around 20-30 minutes via Route 7 and **Ohio State Route 145**, offers a crucial safety net. However, for specialized care, the longer drive times to Wheeling or Marietta become a critical consideration.

Public transportation options in 43754 are limited. There is no readily available, regularly scheduled bus service within the ZIP code itself. The availability of public transit is a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive, lack access to a vehicle, or are unable to afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership. This is a crucial point when evaluating healthcare access.

The absence of robust public transportation necessitates exploring alternative options. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary. The availability of these services in rural areas can be sporadic, and surge pricing during peak demand or adverse weather conditions can make them prohibitively expensive for some. This can be a significant challenge for individuals with chronic conditions requiring regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer another potential solution. Companies like CareRide or Medical Transport Services may operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transport. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive. However, availability and cost vary, and advance booking is often required. Thorough research is essential to determine which services are available and meet specific needs.

Healthcare access is further complicated by the lack of ADA-compliant transportation options. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems provide accessible services for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited availability of public transit in 43754, coupled with the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services, can create significant barriers for individuals with mobility impairments or other disabilities.

The physical environment also plays a role in asthma management. The air quality in Lewisville, while generally good, can be affected by seasonal allergens, such as pollen and mold. The presence of agricultural activities in the surrounding area may also contribute to airborne irritants. Individuals with asthma must be vigilant in monitoring air quality and taking appropriate precautions, such as using air purifiers and avoiding outdoor activities during peak allergy seasons.

The availability of telehealth services is a growing trend that can improve healthcare access in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel. However, access to reliable internet connectivity is essential for telehealth to be effective. The availability of high-speed internet in 43754 may vary, potentially limiting the ability of some residents to utilize telehealth services.

The cost of healthcare is another critical factor. The financial burden of medical care, including transportation costs, can be significant, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, and medical transport can add up quickly. Access to affordable healthcare, including prescription medications, is essential for managing asthma effectively.

Moving to Lewisville requires careful consideration of all these factors. For individuals with asthma, the transportation infrastructure, the availability of specialized medical care, the quality of the air, and the cost of healthcare all play a crucial role in determining quality of life. The Asthma Score for 43754, therefore, is not simply a numerical value but a multifaceted assessment that reflects the complex interplay of these factors.

The community's commitment to improving healthcare access is vital. This includes advocating for improved public transportation, supporting the expansion of telehealth services, and promoting initiatives that address the social determinants of health, such as poverty and lack of access to healthy food. A collaborative approach, involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government, is essential to create a healthier environment for all residents of 43754, particularly those with asthma.