44695, Bowerston, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44695, Bowerston, Ohio is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.25 percent of residents in 44695 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Twin City Medical Center with a distance of 8.21 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Bowerston, Ohio (ZIP Code 44695)

The quaint village of Bowerston, nestled in the heart of Ohio's rolling hills, offers a peaceful existence. However, for residents managing asthma, the serenity of this rural community can be challenged by the complexities of accessing healthcare. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 44695, assessing the accessibility of healthcare facilities, particularly for individuals requiring regular asthma management and emergency care. Our focus is on transportation, a critical determinant of healthcare access, especially when considering the unpredictable nature of asthma exacerbations. Understanding the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing, is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare and even for those considering moving to Bowerston.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Bowerston lies in its rural location. The nearest hospitals and specialized asthma care providers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This reliance on transportation introduces significant variables, including travel time, cost, and the availability of suitable options, all of which directly impact the "Asthma Score" for residents.

**Driving Distances and Time:**

The most common mode of transportation in Bowerston is the personal vehicle. Several major roadways facilitate travel to healthcare facilities. The primary route to Canton, the closest city with comprehensive medical services, involves taking **State Route 212** east, then merging onto **US Route 250** and finally onto **Interstate 77** north. This journey, covering approximately 40 miles, typically takes around 50 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

For emergency situations, this drive time can feel excruciatingly long. The availability of a vehicle in good working order, and the driver's ability to navigate these roads, become paramount.

Alternatively, residents might consider traveling west on **State Route 212** to connect with **State Route 39**, which leads to Dover and New Philadelphia. These towns also offer medical facilities, including urgent care centers and some specialized clinics. This route, while shorter in distance (approximately 25-30 miles), might take a similar amount of time due to slower speed limits and potential congestion in Dover and New Philadelphia.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Bowerston are severely limited, significantly impacting the "Asthma Score." The area lacks a comprehensive public bus system, making it difficult for individuals without access to a personal vehicle to reach medical appointments. This deficiency poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who are elderly, disabled, or financially constrained.

While some regional transit authorities may offer demand-response services, such as dial-a-ride, these options often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours. The accessibility of these services for asthma patients, especially during sudden exacerbations, is questionable. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and routes is crucial. Without reliable and accessible public transportation, individuals with asthma face considerable challenges in maintaining consistent healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Canton and Dover areas, but their presence in Bowerston is inconsistent. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore risky.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are an alternative. Several companies, such as **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local providers, operate in the region. These services typically offer non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services can be expensive and may require pre-booking, which may not be feasible during an asthma emergency. The cost of NEMT, along with the potential for delays, must be factored into the "Asthma Score."

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Asthma Score" for Bowerston is significantly influenced by the challenges of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation creates a dependency on the driver's health, vehicle maintenance, and the ability to navigate potentially hazardous road conditions. The limited public transportation options exacerbate the problem, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The lack of readily available ride-sharing services and the cost and pre-booking requirements of medical transportation further complicate healthcare access. These factors contribute to a lower "Asthma Score," potentially deterring individuals with asthma from moving to Bowerston or making it difficult for current residents to manage their condition effectively.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving the "Asthma Score" for Bowerston residents requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, including expanding bus routes or implementing a more robust demand-response system, is crucial. This would improve healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

Encouraging ride-sharing services to expand their presence in the area could provide a more readily available transportation option. Promoting awareness of medical transportation services and exploring options for subsidized transportation for low-income residents could also improve the "Asthma Score."

Finally, the development of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, could mitigate some of the transportation challenges. However, the success of telehealth depends on reliable internet access, which may also be limited in rural areas.

In conclusion, while Bowerston offers the charm of a rural lifestyle, the limitations in transportation significantly impact healthcare access for individuals with asthma. The "Asthma Score" reflects the challenges of traveling to healthcare facilities, highlighting the need for community-based solutions to improve transportation options and ensure that all residents can access the medical care they need. For those considering moving to Bowerston, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and the available resources is essential to ensure effective asthma management.