44460, Salem, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44460, Salem, Ohio is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.88 percent of residents in 44460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.16 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Salem, OH (ZIP Code 44460)

Relocating to a new community, particularly when managing a chronic condition like asthma, necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up, specifically tailored for ZIP Code 44460 (Salem, Ohio), delves into the intricacies of transportation options available to residents seeking medical care, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive overview, helping prospective residents assess their healthcare access and make informed decisions when considering a move.

The very fabric of healthcare access in Salem, Ohio, is interwoven with transportation. For individuals with asthma, reliable and efficient transportation is paramount, especially during exacerbations. The ability to swiftly reach a physician's office, urgent care facility, or hospital can be the difference between managing symptoms effectively and experiencing a medical emergency.

**Driving and Drive Times:**

The primary mode of transportation in Salem is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Navigating the city and surrounding areas is relatively straightforward, with well-maintained roads and generally manageable traffic. However, drive times to healthcare facilities can vary depending on the location and time of day.

The Salem Regional Medical Center (SRMC), the primary hospital in the area, is centrally located and easily accessible from most parts of the city. Residents living in the heart of Salem can expect a drive time of approximately 5-10 minutes to SRMC. Those residing on the outskirts, particularly in more rural areas, might face drive times of up to 15-20 minutes. Major roadways such as State Route 45 and State Route 14 provide direct routes to SRMC, while US Route 62 offers another convenient access point.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel outside of Salem. The closest major city with a wider range of medical specialists is Youngstown, approximately a 30-40 minute drive via US Route 62 and the I-680. Cleveland, with its renowned medical centers, is roughly a 1.5-hour drive, primarily via the Ohio Turnpike (I-80). These longer drive times necessitate careful planning, especially for individuals with asthma who may require frequent check-ups or experience unexpected flare-ups.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Salem are limited. The Salem Area Mass Transit Authority (SAMTA) provides bus service within the city limits. However, the routes are not extensive, and service frequency may be limited, especially during evenings and weekends.

SAMTA operates several routes, but their specific numbers and schedules are subject to change. For individuals with asthma, the accessibility of these routes is crucial. SAMTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited route coverage and potential for delays may pose challenges for those requiring timely access to healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Salem. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. However, the availability of ride-sharing services can be variable, and wait times may be longer during peak hours or in less populated areas.

The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. It is essential to factor in the cost of these services when assessing healthcare access. For individuals with asthma, the ability to quickly and reliably secure a ride to a doctor's appointment or urgent care facility is a significant advantage.

**Medical Transportation:**

For individuals with severe asthma or mobility limitations, medical transportation services offer specialized assistance. These services typically involve non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) provided by companies such as MedTrans or American Medical Response (AMR). These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to handle medical needs.

Medical transportation services are particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance with mobility, oxygen, or other medical equipment. However, these services may require prior arrangements and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

When evaluating healthcare access in Salem, OH, several factors warrant careful consideration. Proximity to healthcare facilities, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and urgent care centers, is crucial. The availability of specialists, such as allergists, is also important for effective asthma management.

The quality of healthcare services in Salem is generally considered good, with SRMC providing a range of medical specialties. However, the availability of certain specialists may be limited compared to larger cities. Residents may need to travel to Youngstown or Cleveland for specialized care.

**Moving to Salem: Asthma Score Assessment:**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Salem (ZIP Code 44460), a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. While driving offers the most flexibility, the limited public transit options and potential for ride-sharing delays necessitate careful planning. The availability of medical transportation services provides a safety net for those with more complex needs.

Before making a move, prospective residents should:

* **Identify healthcare providers:** Locate primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and urgent care facilities in the area.
* **Assess drive times:** Determine the estimated drive times to these facilities from their prospective residence.
* **Investigate public transit routes:** Determine the accessibility of SAMTA routes to healthcare facilities.
* **Explore ride-sharing availability:** Research the availability and cost of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Consider medical transportation options:** Determine if medical transportation services are necessary and assess their availability and cost.

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision about whether Salem, OH, is the right fit for their healthcare needs. The "Asthma Score" is not a numerical value but a holistic evaluation of transportation options and healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed choices about their health and well-being. The essence of successful relocation lies in anticipating and planning for the practicalities of daily life, and for those with asthma, this includes a clear understanding of how they will get to their doctors.