44687, Walnut Creek, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44687, Walnut Creek, Ohio is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

94.51 percent of residents in 44687 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.80 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 10.58 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Walnut Creek (44687)

Relocating to Walnut Creek, Ohio (ZIP Code 44687), promises a slower pace and access to the heart of Amish Country. However, for individuals managing asthma, a crucial consideration is the ease with which they can access healthcare. This "Asthma Score" write-up meticulously examines the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare facilities in and around Walnut Creek, providing a detailed assessment for prospective residents, especially those prioritizing convenient healthcare access.

The primary healthcare provider for residents of 44687 is Pomerene Hospital in Millersburg, approximately a 15-minute drive, assuming normal traffic conditions. The journey primarily involves navigating **State Route 39**, a well-maintained two-lane highway. This route offers relatively smooth travel, but during peak hours or tourist seasons, expect potential delays. Alternative routes include local roads, such as **County Road 77** and **County Road 77A**, which can offer scenic detours but may add travel time due to their winding nature and slower speed limits.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Tuscarawas County Transportation System (TCTS) offers demand-response services, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. While TCTS aims to provide accessible transportation, its availability and scheduling constraints can be a challenge, especially for those requiring immediate medical attention. ADA-compliant vehicles are available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on pre-arranged schedules significantly impacts the spontaneity of accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, though their presence is less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. While these services offer a degree of flexibility, their cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare visits. The reliability of ride-sharing services in this rural setting should be carefully considered.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients, provide an alternative. Companies like First Call Medical Transportation and MedTrans offer specialized services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services often prioritize patient comfort and safety, making them a viable option for individuals with specific medical needs. However, these services typically require pre-booking and may involve higher costs than ride-sharing or public transit.

Beyond Pomerene Hospital, several other healthcare options are available, though their accessibility varies. The Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital is approximately a 45-minute drive, primarily via **State Route 250** and **U.S. Route 250**. This route involves navigating a busier highway, increasing the likelihood of traffic delays. The Akron Children's Hospital, a specialized pediatric facility, is approximately a 1-hour, 15-minute drive, primarily via **Interstate 77** and **State Route 8**. This longer journey presents additional challenges for individuals with asthma, including potential exposure to environmental triggers and increased travel time during flare-ups.

The availability of urgent care facilities is another crucial factor. While Pomerene Hospital offers emergency services, access to urgent care centers for less critical needs can be more convenient. The closest urgent care facilities are located in Millersburg and Wooster. The Millersburg facility is within a 15-minute drive, while the Wooster facility is approximately a 40-minute drive. These facilities offer walk-in services, providing a more immediate option for managing asthma symptoms.

The location of pharmacies is another vital element. Several pharmacies are located in Millersburg, offering convenient access to medications and asthma-related supplies. The proximity of these pharmacies ensures that residents can quickly obtain necessary prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. The availability of pharmacies is a significant advantage for residents of 44687.

When assessing the transportation options, consider the potential impact of weather conditions. Winter weather, with its snow and ice, can significantly impact travel times and the availability of transportation services. Individuals with asthma should be prepared for potential delays and disruptions during inclement weather.

The overall "Asthma Score" for transportation to healthcare in 44687 is moderate. While Pomerene Hospital is relatively accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services present challenges. The longer travel times to specialized facilities like Akron Children's Hospital and the potential for weather-related disruptions further complicate healthcare access.

For individuals with asthma, moving to Walnut Creek requires careful planning. Proximity to Pomerene Hospital is a significant advantage, but the limited transportation options necessitate considering the potential impact of traffic, weather, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services. Proactive planning, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, understanding the limitations of available transportation options, and having a backup plan for emergencies, is crucial for ensuring accessible and timely healthcare.

The decision to move to Walnut Creek should be weighed with the understanding that healthcare access requires careful consideration. While the slower pace of life and the beauty of Amish Country are appealing, the transportation landscape presents unique challenges for individuals managing asthma. Thoroughly evaluating these factors, including the drive-times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, is essential for making an informed decision and ensuring that healthcare access remains a priority.