44403, Brookfield, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44403, Brookfield, Ohio is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.93 percent of residents in 44403 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Brookfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 44403)

Brookfield, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Trumbull County, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing asthma. This write-up, focusing on ZIP code 44403, assesses the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access, specifically considering transportation options. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents, especially those considering moving to Brookfield or seeking to improve their healthcare navigation. We'll analyze drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, culminating in an "Asthma Score" to quantify the ease of accessing essential healthcare.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is swift access to medical care during exacerbations. In Brookfield, this translates to understanding the practicality of reaching local hospitals, urgent care centers, and specialist offices. Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. From the center of Brookfield, the closest major hospital, Sharon Regional Medical Center, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, primarily via **State Route 7**. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Another crucial healthcare destination is the Trumbull Memorial Hospital in Warren, Ohio. This journey, covering roughly 15-25 minutes, involves navigating **State Route 7** and **State Route 82**. While the roads are generally smooth, the potential for traffic, particularly around Warren, needs consideration. For those residing in the more remote sections of 44403, these drive times could be significantly longer, impacting the ability to receive timely medical attention.

Public transportation options in Brookfield, while present, are limited. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) operates within Trumbull County, but its routes are not extensive. The primary route serving Brookfield is the **Route 7**, which offers service to Warren and other surrounding communities. However, the frequency of these buses is limited, with schedules often designed for weekday commuting and less frequent weekend services. This can pose a significant challenge for individuals requiring immediate medical attention outside of standard business hours.

ADA accessibility on WRTA buses is a crucial consideration. All WRTA buses are equipped with ramps and designated seating areas for individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessibility for those with mobility limitations. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent schedules could still present challenges for asthma sufferers, especially during emergencies.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Brookfield area. However, their reliability and cost can fluctuate. Availability is not guaranteed, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to healthcare providers. This financial burden can exacerbate the stress of managing asthma.

Medical transportation services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) providers, offer specialized support for individuals with medical needs. Ambulance services are readily available in Brookfield for life-threatening emergencies. However, for routine appointments or less urgent medical needs, NEMT services might be a more practical option. These services typically transport patients to and from medical appointments, offering a more affordable alternative to ambulance transport.

Several NEMT providers operate in the Trumbull County area, including companies specializing in medical transportation. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria, such as the need for ambulatory assistance or wheelchair accessibility. Researching and understanding the available NEMT options is crucial for individuals with asthma who may require assistance with transportation.

The availability of pharmacies in Brookfield is another factor influencing healthcare access. Several pharmacies, including chain pharmacies and independent pharmacies, are located within the ZIP code. This proximity ensures convenient access to medications and asthma-related supplies. However, the accessibility of these pharmacies via various transportation methods needs consideration.

The overall "Asthma Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Brookfield, Ohio (44403) requires a nuanced assessment. Drive times to hospitals and urgent care facilities are relatively reasonable, but traffic congestion during peak hours and the limited availability of public transit can pose challenges. The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services are also significant factors. The availability of medical transportation services, while offering support, requires advance planning and may have eligibility requirements.

Considering these factors, the "Asthma Score" for 44403 would be moderate. The score reflects the balance between the proximity of healthcare facilities and the limitations of transportation options. Residents need to proactively plan their transportation needs, especially during emergencies.

For those considering moving to Brookfield with asthma, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs is crucial. Researching the availability of ride-sharing services, understanding the WRTA routes and schedules, and identifying NEMT providers are essential steps. Exploring the potential for carpooling with neighbors or family members can also improve healthcare access.

In conclusion, while Brookfield offers reasonable access to healthcare facilities, the transportation landscape presents challenges for individuals managing asthma. A proactive approach to transportation planning, combined with awareness of available resources, is vital for ensuring timely and effective healthcare access. The "Asthma Score" reflects the need for careful consideration of transportation options when navigating healthcare in this Trumbull County community.