44243, Kent, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44243, Kent, Ohio is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.12 percent of residents in 44243 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 5.27 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kent, Ohio (ZIP Code 44243)

The crisp autumn air, the rolling hills, the historic charm – Kent, Ohio (ZIP Code 44243) offers a compelling allure. But for individuals managing asthma, the promise of a new life must be tempered with a critical assessment: how easily can you access healthcare? This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of Kent, providing a detailed analysis of commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation services, all crucial for ensuring timely healthcare access. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Kent, particularly those with respiratory sensitivities.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in Kent is undoubtedly the distance and ease of travel to medical facilities. The city is served by several major roadways. Interstate 76 (I-76) and Interstate 80 (I-80), both major arteries, offer quick routes to hospitals and specialist clinics located in surrounding areas. However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times, particularly for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation. Ohio Route 261 (Haymaker Parkway) and Ohio Route 43 (South Water Street/North Mantua Street) provide local access, connecting residents to various medical offices and pharmacies within Kent and nearby communities.

Driving times, of course, vary depending on the destination and the time of day. The closest major hospital, University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, is generally a 15-20 minute drive via I-76 East, assuming moderate traffic. Cleveland Clinic Akron General in Akron, offering specialized respiratory care, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via I-76 West, again, contingent on traffic conditions. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within Kent itself, accessible via routes like Haymaker Parkway and Main Street, often offer shorter drive times, typically under 10 minutes. These facilities are crucial for immediate care during an asthma attack.

Public transportation in Kent, provided by the Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA), offers an alternative to driving. PARTA operates several bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. While the specific routes vary, the primary routes serving Kent include the Kent Central Loop, which provides service within the city limits, and routes connecting Kent to Ravenna and other surrounding towns.

Unfortunately, the accessibility of PARTA for individuals with asthma is a mixed bag. While all PARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, the frequency of service can be a limiting factor. Waiting times, especially during evenings and weekends, can be substantial. Furthermore, depending on the route and the location of the bus stops, the potential for exposure to environmental triggers, such as exhaust fumes, could pose a challenge for individuals with asthma.

Beyond driving and public transit, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Kent. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient option for healthcare appointments, especially when driving is not feasible. However, ride-share availability may be limited during certain hours, and surge pricing during peak demand could increase costs. The reliability of ride-sharing services in the event of an asthma emergency should also be carefully considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a more specialized option. Companies like MedTrans and First Transit Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be pre-booked, ensuring a reliable and safe mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. While these services offer peace of mind, they often come with higher costs than public transit or ride-sharing.

The location of your residence within ZIP Code 44243 significantly impacts healthcare access. Living closer to the city center, with access to Main Street and Haymaker Parkway, provides easier access to local clinics and pharmacies. Proximity to PARTA bus routes also enhances accessibility. Conversely, residents in more rural areas of the ZIP code may face longer travel times and limited public transit options.

When considering moving to Kent, individuals with asthma should thoroughly research the location of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and urgent care facilities. They should also assess the availability of transportation options based on their individual needs and circumstances. A pre-planned strategy, including multiple transportation alternatives, is essential. This might involve identifying the closest emergency room, understanding the PARTA bus schedules, and having the contact information for ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers readily available.

Furthermore, individuals should consider the potential for environmental triggers in their chosen neighborhood. Proximity to industrial areas, high-traffic roads, or areas with high pollen counts could exacerbate asthma symptoms. Consulting with a local pulmonologist or allergist can provide valuable insights into the specific environmental challenges in the area and help develop a personalized asthma management plan.

The "Asthma Score" for Kent, Ohio (44243) is not a simple numerical value. It is a multifaceted assessment based on individual circumstances, the location of residence, and the availability of transportation options. While Kent offers a variety of transportation choices, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, the ease and reliability of healthcare access depend on careful planning and proactive management. The success of moving to Kent, for an individual with asthma, hinges on a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and a proactive approach to healthcare access.