44718, Canton, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44718, Canton, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.46 percent of residents in 44718 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Medical Center with a distance of 3.97 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Canton, Ohio (ZIP Code 44718)

For individuals managing asthma, access to timely and reliable healthcare is paramount. The ability to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and emergency services without undue stress or delay directly impacts quality of life. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" for residents of ZIP Code 44718 in Canton, Ohio, considering the complexities of transportation and healthcare access. It's especially relevant for those contemplating moving to Canton, offering a realistic perspective on navigating the city with asthma.

The 44718 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Canton, including residential areas, commercial zones, and portions of the city's industrial landscape. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial to evaluating healthcare accessibility. The primary roadways influencing commute times are Interstate 77 (I-77), the major north-south artery, and U.S. Route 62 (US-62), which traverses east-west. Other key roads include Whipple Avenue NW, Market Avenue N, and Cleveland Avenue SW. Traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms due to increased exposure to vehicle emissions.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on location within the ZIP code and the destination. A resident in the northern part of 44718 might face a 15-20 minute drive to Aultman Hospital, a major healthcare provider located south of the ZIP code. Conversely, a resident in the southern part of the ZIP code could reach Aultman in approximately 5-10 minutes. Mercy Medical Center, another prominent hospital, is located further west and could take 20-30 minutes to reach, depending on traffic and the specific origin point within 44718. Urgent care facilities and primary care physician offices are scattered throughout the area, offering shorter drive times for routine appointments.

Public transportation options, while available, present challenges for individuals with asthma. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus service throughout Canton and the surrounding areas. Several routes serve the 44718 ZIP code, including routes 1, 2, 3, and 4. These routes connect to key destinations, including hospitals, pharmacies, and medical clinics. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. SARTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the potential for extended wait times at bus stops, exposure to outdoor allergens, and the possibility of crowded conditions during peak hours can be problematic for individuals with asthma. The reliance on public transit may also necessitate multiple transfers, adding to the overall travel time and increasing the potential for environmental triggers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. Availability in Canton is generally good, providing a convenient, on-demand service. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, individuals with asthma should be mindful of potential triggers within the vehicles, such as air fresheners or pet dander. Communication with the driver about specific needs, such as requesting a window to be opened for ventilation, is essential.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like First Transit and Logisticare provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, often covered by insurance. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. While a valuable resource, scheduling and availability can be constraints, requiring advance booking and potentially limiting flexibility.

Pharmacies are an integral part of healthcare access. Numerous pharmacies, including national chains like CVS and Walgreens, are located within and near the 44718 ZIP code. Drive-through services are often available, providing a convenient option for picking up prescriptions. However, the proximity of a pharmacy to a resident's home is crucial, as delayed access to medication can have serious consequences for asthma management.

Healthcare access extends beyond transportation. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also essential. Aultman Hospital and Mercy Medical Center both offer specialized respiratory care services. However, appointment scheduling and wait times can be a challenge. Proximity to these facilities is therefore a significant factor in the Asthma Score.

The overall Asthma Score for 44718 is moderate. While the area offers a range of healthcare providers and transportation options, each presents its own challenges. Drive times can be manageable, but traffic congestion and reliance on personal vehicles can be problematic. Public transit is available but may not be ideal for all individuals with asthma. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide alternatives, but cost and availability are important considerations.

For individuals considering moving to Canton with asthma, careful planning is crucial. Researching the proximity of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and transportation options to potential residences is essential. Evaluating the impact of traffic patterns and considering the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services is also vital. Openly communicating with healthcare providers about transportation needs and developing a comprehensive asthma management plan that incorporates these factors will contribute to a better quality of life.

Ultimately, the Asthma Score for 44718 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While not ideal, the area offers a degree of healthcare access. With careful planning, proactive management, and a willingness to navigate the transportation landscape, individuals with asthma can successfully live and thrive in Canton, Ohio. A well-informed approach is key to mitigating the challenges and ensuring access to the necessary healthcare resources.