44412, Diamond, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44412, Diamond, Ohio is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.81 percent of residents in 44412 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 19.21 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Diamond, Ohio (ZIP Code 44412)

The journey to quality healthcare, especially for those managing asthma, is significantly impacted by transportation options. This assessment, the "Asthma Score," analyzes the accessibility of healthcare facilities from Diamond, Ohio (ZIP Code 44412), considering various transportation methods. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents, particularly those considering moving to the area, to ensure they can readily access essential medical services.

Diamond, a small community in Trumbull County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its rural setting influences the availability and practicality of different transportation modes. For individuals with asthma, timely access to medical care, including routine check-ups, medication refills, and emergency interventions, is paramount. This analysis will explore the realities of navigating the healthcare system in and around Diamond.

**Driving the Distance: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to healthcare facilities from Diamond are a crucial factor in the Asthma Score. Access to primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services is dependent on the efficiency of the local road network.

Traveling east on State Route 88, one can reach the closest urgent care facility in Garrettsville, approximately a 20-minute drive. This route offers a relatively straightforward journey, though traffic can be a factor during peak hours. For more specialized care, such as pulmonology or allergy specialists, the journey often extends to Warren, Ohio, a 30- to 40-minute drive via State Route 5 and State Route 46. This drive, while longer, provides access to a broader range of medical professionals and facilities.

Emergency situations demand immediate response. The nearest hospital, University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, is accessible via State Route 88 and State Route 14, requiring approximately 30 minutes of travel time. This drive time is a critical component of the Asthma Score, as it directly impacts the ability to receive prompt medical attention during an asthma exacerbation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Diamond are limited. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides bus services in the broader Mahoning Valley region, but its routes and frequency are not designed to serve the specific needs of Diamond residents.

There are no direct WRTA routes that connect Diamond to major healthcare hubs. Residents needing to utilize public transit would likely need to arrange a ride to a WRTA stop in a neighboring town, such as Garrettsville or Newton Falls. This adds significant travel time and complexity, making public transit a less viable option for many, particularly those experiencing asthma symptoms.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for those with mobility limitations. While WRTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, the lack of direct routes from Diamond presents a significant barrier to access. The Asthma Score must reflect the limited public transit options and the potential challenges for individuals with disabilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability in Diamond may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The Asthma Score must consider the potential for delays or unavailability of ride-sharing services, which can be crucial for accessing urgent care or scheduled appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another option. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several medical transportation providers operate in the Trumbull County area, including CareRide and MedTrans. However, these services often require advance booking and may involve additional costs, which must be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access.

**The Asthma Score: A Holistic View**

The Asthma Score is not merely a calculation of drive times or the availability of public transit. It's a holistic assessment that considers the interplay of all transportation options, their limitations, and their impact on individuals with asthma.

For someone moving to Diamond, the Asthma Score should be a key consideration. It should inform their decision-making process by providing a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities they may face in accessing healthcare. The score should reflect the potential for longer travel times, the limited availability of public transit, and the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in Diamond**

Living with asthma in Diamond, Ohio, presents unique transportation challenges. While the area offers a peaceful, rural environment, healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration of available options.

The Asthma Score reflects the necessity of personal vehicles for most residents. It acknowledges the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation services. For individuals considering moving to Diamond, the score should serve as a guide to understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on their healthcare needs. By considering these factors, residents can proactively manage their asthma and ensure they receive timely and effective medical care.