44703, Canton, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44703, Canton, Ohio is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.21 percent of residents in 44703 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Medical Center with a distance of 0.88 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Canton, Ohio (ZIP Code 44703)

Considering a move to Canton, Ohio (ZIP Code 44703) and managing asthma? This write-up assesses the ease of accessing healthcare, focusing on transportation options and their potential impact on your asthma management. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive "Asthma Score" to help you evaluate this vital aspect of your relocation.

The success of asthma management hinges on consistent healthcare access. Regular appointments, medication refills, and emergency care are critical. The transportation options available within and around ZIP Code 44703 directly influence this access, impacting your ability to receive timely and appropriate care. This analysis aims to provide a realistic picture of the challenges and opportunities you'll encounter.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation in Canton. From the heart of 44703, access to major hospitals and specialist offices is generally straightforward, but traffic and distance can become significant factors, especially during peak hours.

A primary healthcare destination is Aultman Hospital, located at 2821 Woodlawn Ave NW, a drive that typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The route often involves navigating the local roads such as 12th Street NW and Whipple Avenue NW. This route is generally well-maintained but can experience congestion during rush hour, potentially extending your commute.

Another crucial healthcare facility is Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital, situated at 1320 Mercy Dr NW. The drive from 44703 to Mercy Hospital is usually around 10-20 minutes, depending on your starting point and traffic conditions. The route involves using 12th Street NW and Interstate 77 (I-77), a major highway that provides rapid access but can experience significant congestion during morning and evening commutes.

For specialized care, consider the drive to Akron Children's Hospital, located in Akron, Ohio. This trip requires a longer commute, typically taking 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey primarily involves using I-77 North, highlighting the importance of planning for potential delays. This longer distance necessitates careful consideration, especially during asthma exacerbations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides public transportation within Canton and the surrounding areas. While SARTA offers a network of routes, their coverage and frequency may pose challenges for individuals with asthma.

Route 101, a major route, serves the 12th Street corridor, potentially offering access to some healthcare facilities along that route. However, the frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, might not align with urgent healthcare needs.

Route 104, another key route, travels through downtown Canton and provides connections to other routes. However, the routes are not designed specifically for healthcare access.

SARTA buses are equipped with ADA accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the extended travel times and potential for exposure to allergens within the bus environment (e.g., dust, pollen) could exacerbate asthma symptoms. The limited frequency of buses can also be a significant disadvantage, particularly during emergency situations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Canton, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times and offering a more controlled environment compared to public transit. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments or emergency trips.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTrans and CareRide, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer specialized vehicles and trained personnel, providing a safer and more comfortable transportation experience. While these services can be invaluable, they often require advance booking and may have higher costs than standard ride-sharing or public transit.

**Assessing the Asthma Score:**

The "Asthma Score" for 44703 reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. While driving offers the most direct access to healthcare facilities, traffic congestion and distance can create challenges. Public transit provides a more affordable option but faces limitations in frequency, coverage, and potential allergen exposure. Ride-sharing offers convenience but comes with associated costs. Medical transport provides specialized services but may require advance planning and higher expenses.

For an individual with well-controlled asthma, the availability of driving, ride-sharing, and medical transport options may result in a favorable "Asthma Score." However, for individuals with severe asthma or limited access to personal transportation, the reliance on public transit or the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport could significantly impact healthcare access, leading to a lower "Asthma Score."

**Making an Informed Decision: Moving to Canton:**

When considering a move to Canton (44703), assess your individual healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Evaluate the proximity of healthcare providers to your potential residence. Factor in the availability and reliability of transportation options, including driving times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing services.

If you rely on public transit, research the specific routes and schedules relevant to your healthcare needs. If you require specialized medical transport, investigate the availability and cost of these services.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Canton, Ohio, is the right place for you, ensuring that your asthma management is supported by convenient and reliable healthcare access. The goal is to create a plan that minimizes transportation barriers and maximizes your ability to maintain optimal health. The decision requires careful consideration of transportation; healthcare access; and your personal needs.