44234, Hiram, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44234, Hiram, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.16 percent of residents in 44234 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 11.23 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44234

The crisp air of Hiram, Ohio, nestled within the 44234 ZIP code, often whispers of rustling leaves and the promise of fresh starts. For those managing asthma, however, this idyllic setting demands a closer look at healthcare access, a critical factor in daily well-being. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare facilities, offering a comprehensive guide for residents and those considering moving to Hiram. We'll assess the ease of reaching essential medical care, focusing on drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 44234 revolves around proximity to medical facilities. The closest major healthcare hub is University Hospitals (UH) Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, a vital resource for comprehensive care. Driving from the heart of Hiram to UH Portage Medical Center typically involves a journey of approximately 15-20 minutes, covering roughly 10 miles. The primary route utilizes Ohio State Route 700, a scenic road that transitions into Ohio State Route 14, providing a relatively straightforward passage. Traffic congestion, especially during peak commuting hours, could extend this travel time.

Another crucial destination is the Cleveland Clinic, a renowned healthcare system. Reaching the Cleveland Clinic main campus, located in Cleveland, necessitates a more extended commute. This trip typically involves a 45-60 minute drive, covering approximately 40-50 miles. The most direct route involves utilizing Ohio State Route 700 to Interstate 480 West, a major highway that connects Hiram to Cleveland. Alternatively, one could take Ohio State Route 14 to Interstate 76 West, then merging onto Interstate 271 North before reaching Interstate 90 East, eventually leading to the Cleveland Clinic. This longer route might be preferable during heavy traffic on I-480.

Public transportation options in the area are limited, which impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) offers bus services within Portage County, but direct routes to major hospitals from Hiram are infrequent. The PARTA system does not offer direct routes to the Cleveland Clinic. PARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the lack of extensive routes and limited frequency pose challenges for those relying on public transit for their healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. Availability in Hiram is generally good, but surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather could significantly increase costs. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments requires careful planning and booking in advance. Medical transportation services, like MedTrans or CareRide, cater specifically to patients needing assistance. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. However, these specialized services usually come with higher costs and require prior arrangements.

For residents with asthma, the availability of rapid transportation to healthcare is paramount. In the event of an asthma attack, every minute counts. The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor in the 44234 ZIP code, as public transit options are limited and ride-sharing services can be unpredictable. This necessitates a careful assessment of individual transportation needs and the potential for delays.

The decision to move to Hiram, or any community, requires a comprehensive evaluation of its resources. For individuals with asthma, this assessment must include a thorough understanding of healthcare access. The drive times to medical facilities, the availability of public transit, and the reliability of alternative transportation options directly impact quality of life.

The Ohio State Route 700 is the primary artery connecting Hiram to Ravenna and, by extension, to vital healthcare services. While this route is generally reliable, it's essential to consider potential traffic delays, especially during rush hour. The longer journey to the Cleveland Clinic, primarily via I-480 or I-76, necessitates careful planning and awareness of potential traffic congestion.

The absence of readily available public transit options presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. While PARTA provides a valuable service within Portage County, its limited routes and infrequent schedules may not adequately meet the needs of asthma patients requiring prompt access to medical care. The ADA accessibility of PARTA buses is a positive factor, but the overall limitations of the system remain a concern.

Ride-sharing services offer a degree of flexibility, but their reliability and cost can fluctuate. Medical transportation services provide a specialized solution, but their higher costs and the need for advance booking require careful consideration.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for 44234 reflects a mixed landscape. The proximity to UH Portage Medical Center provides a degree of comfort, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. Individuals with asthma considering moving to Hiram must weigh these factors carefully, assessing their transportation needs and their ability to navigate the available resources.

The availability of quick and reliable transportation is a cornerstone of managing asthma. The ability to reach medical care promptly during an asthma attack can be life-saving. The 44234 ZIP code presents a unique set of considerations, demanding a thoughtful approach to healthcare access.

The scenic routes of Ohio State Route 700 and the highways to Cleveland hold the key to healthcare, but the lack of robust public transit and the potential for traffic delays create a complex picture. Ride-sharing and medical transportation offer solutions, but their cost and reliability must be carefully evaluated.

For those seeking a breath of fresh air and a new beginning in Hiram, a thorough understanding of healthcare access is not merely a practical consideration, but a vital component of well-being. The "Asthma Score" serves as a reminder that the journey to healthcare is as important as the destination itself.