44272, Rootstown, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44272, Rootstown, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.90 percent of residents in 44272 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 6.16 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Rootstown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44272)

Rootstown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44272), a charming village nestled in Portage County, offers a tranquil environment. However, for individuals managing asthma, the accessibility of healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape, focusing on healthcare access, to assist potential residents, particularly those considering moving to Rootstown. We will examine the drive times, public transit options, and ride-share services, painting a vivid picture of navigating the healthcare system within and around this community.

The primary determinant of the "Asthma Score" is the ease with which a resident can reach medical facilities, especially during an asthma exacerbation. Delays and difficulties in transportation can significantly impact health outcomes. Therefore, this assessment prioritizes timely and reliable access to urgent and routine medical care.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

For many Rootstown residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. The proximity of major roadways significantly impacts healthcare access. The Ohio Turnpike (I-80) offers a quick east-west route, but access points may be a distance. Traveling north-south, Interstate 76 (I-76) provides a crucial artery. State Route 44 serves as a local thoroughfare, connecting Rootstown to nearby towns and healthcare providers.

University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, approximately a 10-15 minute drive via State Route 44, is the closest full-service hospital. This relatively short drive time is a significant advantage for those requiring immediate medical attention. Akron Children's Hospital, with locations in Akron and Hudson, offers specialized pediatric care. The drive to Akron, typically taking 30-45 minutes via I-76 West, provides access to a broader range of specialists. Hudson, reachable in about the same timeframe, is often a slightly less congested route.

Cleveland Clinic Akron General, another regional healthcare provider, requires a drive of approximately 45-60 minutes via I-76 West. The longer drive times to these larger facilities underscore the importance of considering traffic patterns, especially during peak hours. The ease of access to these facilities heavily influences the "Asthma Score" for Rootstown.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option:**

Public transportation options in Rootstown are limited. The Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides bus service within Portage County. However, routes and frequency are limited, and direct routes to major medical facilities may not be available. PARTA's services are designed to provide transportation to essential services.

The specific routes and schedules should be verified with PARTA directly, as they are subject to change. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. This feature is essential for those with asthma, who may experience breathing difficulties or require assistance. While public transit exists, its limited scope suggests that it is not a primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Rootstown.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Rootstown area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-share services should also be factored into the overall healthcare access equation.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans or similar companies, are available for individuals requiring non-emergency medical transportation. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. While they offer a specialized solution, they often come at a higher cost than ride-share or personal vehicles. The availability and reliability of these services are crucial, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

**Analyzing the "Asthma Score" for Rootstown:**

The "Asthma Score" for Rootstown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44272) reflects a mixed bag of advantages and disadvantages regarding healthcare access. The proximity to University Hospitals Portage Medical Center is a significant positive, offering quick access to emergency care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges.

The longer drive times to specialized facilities in Akron and Cleveland necessitate careful planning and consideration of traffic patterns. The availability of ride-share services offers a viable alternative, but their cost and availability should be carefully evaluated. The limited presence of medical transport services suggests that this option may not be readily available or affordable for all residents.

**Moving to Rootstown: Considerations for Asthmatics:**

For individuals with asthma considering moving to Rootstown, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. The ability to drive or have access to a reliable vehicle is highly recommended. Familiarizing oneself with the local roadways and traffic patterns is essential.

Exploring the availability and cost of ride-share services is also recommended. Investigating the specific routes and schedules of PARTA, as well as the availability of ADA-accessible services, is important for those who may require public transportation.

Finally, individuals should research the availability and cost of medical transport services in the area. Proactive planning, including identifying preferred healthcare providers and establishing a transportation plan, is essential for managing asthma effectively in Rootstown. The overall "Asthma Score" for Rootstown is moderate, reflecting the need for careful planning and a reliance on personal vehicles or ride-share services for accessing specialized healthcare. The proximity to a local hospital is a significant benefit, but the limitations in public transit and the longer drive times to specialized facilities should be carefully considered.