44436, Lowellville, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44436, Lowellville, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.89 percent of residents in 44436 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mh St Joseph Warren Hospital with a distance of 16.98 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Lowellville, OH (ZIP Code 44436)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of spring in Lowellville, Ohio, a village nestled along the Mahoning River. For residents managing asthma, the quality of that air, and the ease with which they can access healthcare, are paramount. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" analysis, examines the transportation landscape within and around ZIP Code 44436, focusing on how residents can reach vital medical services. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare access for those with respiratory sensitivities.

The primary consideration for anyone moving to Lowellville, particularly those with asthma, is the proximity and accessibility of healthcare providers. The ability to quickly reach a doctor's office, urgent care facility, or hospital during an asthma flare-up can significantly impact their health outcomes. This analysis will consider the various transportation methods available, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses in the context of asthma management.

**Driving Directions and Drive Times:**

The most direct route to healthcare in the region often involves personal vehicles. From Lowellville, the nearest major healthcare facilities are located in Youngstown, Ohio, and Boardman, Ohio. These towns offer a wider range of specialists and emergency services.

To reach Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, a critical care facility, the most common route is via **Youngstown-Poland Road** and then onto **South Avenue**. The drive is approximately 10 miles and typically takes 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. This route, while generally straightforward, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending the travel time and exacerbating asthma symptoms in a stressful situation.

Another option is to travel to the **Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital**. The drive involves taking **Youngstown-Poland Road** to **Market Street**, then onto **Boardman-Canfield Road**. This trip is about 12 miles and takes approximately 20-25 minutes, also subject to traffic delays. Both routes, while relatively short, require careful planning, especially during rush hour or inclement weather.

For primary care physicians and specialists, the drive times remain similar, with many practices clustered around the hospital locations. Residents should consider the specific location of their chosen provider when calculating travel time. Always factor in potential delays, especially during periods of high traffic or construction.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in the Lowellville area are limited, posing a challenge for those who rely on alternatives to driving. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides bus service throughout Mahoning County, including routes that serve Youngstown and Boardman.

The WRTA operates several routes that could be useful for accessing healthcare. Route 1, which runs along **Market Street**, offers connections to various medical facilities in Boardman. This route is the most direct and is the most likely option for someone in Lowellville. The bus stop is located at the intersection of **Youngstown-Poland Road** and **Market Street**. The schedule, however, is limited, with buses running primarily during weekdays and less frequently on weekends.

Route 10, which travels along **South Avenue**, provides access to healthcare facilities in Youngstown. The bus stop is located at the intersection of **Youngstown-Poland Road** and **South Avenue**. The schedule is also limited, with buses running primarily during weekdays and less frequently on weekends.

The WRTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities, including those with mobility limitations related to asthma, can utilize the service. However, the limited frequency of the routes and the potential for longer travel times compared to driving are significant drawbacks. Planning ahead is crucial, as relying solely on public transit for urgent medical needs could be problematic.

**Ride-Share Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Youngstown-Warren area, including Lowellville. This offers a potential alternative to driving or public transit, especially for those who cannot or prefer not to drive.

The availability and cost of ride-share services can vary depending on demand and time of day. During peak hours or periods of high demand, wait times may increase, and fares may be higher. This can be a factor for individuals experiencing an asthma flare-up, as delays could be detrimental.

While ride-share services provide a convenient option, it's essential to consider the potential for exposure to allergens or irritants within the vehicle. Requesting a ride in a vehicle with a clean environment and informing the driver about your asthma may be beneficial.

**Medical Transportation:**

For individuals with severe asthma or those requiring specialized transportation, medical transport services are available. These services provide non-emergency and emergency medical transportation, often with trained medical personnel on board.

Several medical transport companies operate in the Youngstown area. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals who are unable to drive or use public transit due to their condition.

However, medical transport services can be expensive, and insurance coverage may vary. It's crucial to understand the costs and coverage options before relying on these services.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations for Moving to Lowellville:**

When considering a move to Lowellville, individuals with asthma must carefully assess the healthcare access landscape. While the village offers a tranquil setting, the limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-share services present challenges.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are relatively short, but traffic and weather conditions can impact travel times. The availability of ride-share services provides an alternative, but potential delays and costs should be considered. The limited public transportation options may not be suitable for those with severe asthma.

Before moving, potential residents should research the availability of their preferred healthcare providers and assess the ease with which they can access those providers. They should also familiarize themselves with the local transportation options and develop a plan for managing their asthma in various situations.

In conclusion, the "Asthma Score" for transportation and healthcare access in Lowellville is moderate. While healthcare facilities are within a reasonable driving distance, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-share services necessitate careful planning and consideration for those managing asthma. Residents should prioritize establishing a strong relationship with their healthcare providers and develop a robust plan for transportation to ensure timely access to medical care during an asthma episode.