44656, Mineral City, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44656, Mineral City, Ohio is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.52 percent of residents in 44656 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 7.09 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mineral City (ZIP Code 44656)

Considering a move to Mineral City, Ohio (ZIP Code 44656)? This assessment, tailored to your respiratory health, analyzes the accessibility of healthcare resources, specifically concerning asthma management. We'll delve into the complexities of transportation, a critical factor in managing asthma, and its impact on your ability to receive timely and effective medical care. Understanding these elements is crucial for making an informed decision about relocating.

The cornerstone of asthma management is consistent access to healthcare. This includes routine check-ups, specialist appointments, and urgent care visits. The ability to reach these resources quickly and reliably is paramount, especially during an asthma exacerbation. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of transportation options available in and around Mineral City, focusing on their suitability for individuals with asthma.

**Drive Times: The Open Road to Care**

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation in Mineral City. The primary thoroughfare is **State Route 212**, which connects Mineral City to surrounding towns and healthcare facilities. Heading east on SR-212, you'll reach Dover, approximately a 15-20 minute drive. Dover hosts the **Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital**, a major healthcare provider. This drive is generally straightforward, but be mindful of potential traffic, especially during peak hours.

Westbound on SR-212 leads to **Interstate 77**, a major north-south artery. This route offers access to Canton, approximately a 30-40 minute drive, where you'll find a broader range of healthcare options, including specialist clinics and hospitals. However, I-77 can experience congestion, particularly during rush hour and adverse weather conditions.

Other roads such as **County Road 17** and **County Road 7** offer alternate routes, though they are often slower and less direct. These roads may be useful if avoiding interstate traffic or if your destination is located closer to these secondary routes. Always factor in potential delays when planning your commute, especially if you are experiencing asthma symptoms.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Routes**

Public transportation options in Mineral City are limited. The **Tuscarawas County Transportation (TCT)** provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service primarily caters to seniors and individuals with disabilities. While TCT offers door-to-door service, it may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

TCT operates within Tuscarawas County, including Mineral City. The service is designed to be ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the scheduling process and potential wait times should be considered. It is crucial to inquire about the availability of transportation for medical appointments, including those with specialists in Canton or Dover.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may have limited availability in Mineral City, especially during off-peak hours. Reliance on these services for urgent medical care is not recommended. The availability of ride-sharing can fluctuate, and wait times can be unpredictable.

Medical transport services, such as **First Call Medical Transportation** and **MedExpress Transportation**, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services are designed to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs.

**Healthcare Access: A Closer Look**

The availability of healthcare providers in Mineral City itself is limited. The nearest primary care physicians and urgent care facilities are primarily located in Dover and Canton. This necessitates reliance on transportation to access essential medical services.

Consider the distance to the nearest emergency room, which is crucial during an asthma attack. The **Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital** in Dover is the closest, but the drive time should be factored into any emergency response plan.

**Evaluating Your Asthma Score**

Your "Asthma Score" for Mineral City will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the following factors:

* **Severity of your asthma:** Individuals with more severe asthma may require more frequent medical appointments and therefore a more reliable transportation system.
* **Frequency of medical appointments:** The more appointments you have, the more critical it is to have reliable transportation.
* **Ability to drive:** If you are unable to drive, the reliance on public transportation, ride-sharing, or medical transport becomes more significant.
* **Financial resources:** Transportation costs, including gas, ride-sharing fees, and medical transport charges, should be considered.
* **Emergency preparedness:** Having a plan for asthma exacerbations, including transportation options, is essential.

**Moving to Mineral City: A Balanced Perspective**

Moving to Mineral City offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle. However, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the challenges of healthcare access, particularly regarding transportation. While the area offers a reasonable commute to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit and ride-sharing options require careful consideration.

Before making a move, consider contacting local healthcare providers to confirm appointment availability and transportation options. Investigate the availability of home healthcare services, which can reduce the need for frequent travel.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Mineral City is the right place for you, ensuring your asthma management needs are met. Remember, proactive planning is the key to successful healthcare access, especially in a rural setting.