45174, Terrace Park, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 45174, Terrace Park, Ohio is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.24 percent of residents in 45174 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.39 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is The Jewish Hospital-Mercy Health with a distance of 4.46 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Terrace Park (ZIP Code 45174)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of spring in Terrace Park, Ohio (ZIP Code 45174), a village nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Little Miami River Valley. But for those managing asthma, the beauty of this setting is often tempered by the practical realities of accessing healthcare. This assessment, an “Asthma Score” if you will, examines the accessibility of medical care from the perspective of a resident with asthma, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Considering a move to Terrace Park? Understanding these nuances is crucial for informed decision-making.

The primary concern for an individual with asthma is timely access to medical attention, especially during an exacerbation. This necessitates a careful evaluation of transportation options, each offering a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. The “Asthma Score” considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access within and around this charming village.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For most residents of Terrace Park, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The village is conveniently located near several major roadways, facilitating travel to healthcare providers. Accessing the city of Cincinnati, a hub for specialized medical care, typically involves navigating the winding roads of the village before connecting to major thoroughfares.

The most direct route often involves taking **State Route 126**, a crucial artery connecting Terrace Park to the larger metropolitan area. This route provides relatively quick access to Interstate 71 (I-71), a major north-south highway. From there, numerous hospitals and specialist offices are easily accessible. Drive times vary depending on traffic conditions, but generally, a trip to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, a leading asthma treatment facility, can be completed within 30-45 minutes under normal circumstances.

Alternatively, residents can utilize **State Route 32**, which offers another path into Cincinnati. This route, while slightly longer, can sometimes provide an alternative when traffic on I-71 is congested. However, the winding nature of some sections of SR-32 may be a consideration for those prone to motion sickness, a factor that can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Within Terrace Park itself, local roads like **Miami Avenue** and **Oak Street** provide access to essential services, including pharmacies and urgent care facilities. While these local options may not offer the specialized care of a major hospital, they are invaluable for managing routine asthma care and providing immediate relief during a mild flare-up.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Terrace Park is limited, a significant factor impacting the “Asthma Score.” The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating as Metro, provides bus service to the Cincinnati area. However, the frequency of routes serving Terrace Park is infrequent, and the coverage is not extensive, potentially making public transit a less viable option for those with asthma.

The primary route serving the area is likely to be the **Metro Route 24**, which connects the eastern suburbs to downtown Cincinnati. While this route offers access to some healthcare facilities, the travel time can be significantly longer than driving, potentially exacerbating asthma symptoms during a flare-up. Furthermore, the accessibility of bus stops and the overall environment within the bus itself can be a concern.

SORTA strives to provide accessible services, including buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on public transit in Terrace Park requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays, which can be stressful for someone managing asthma. The lack of readily available public transportation significantly lowers the “Asthma Score” for those who rely on it.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Bridge to Care**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. These services can provide on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, offering a degree of flexibility not available with public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing services in Terrace Park can fluctuate, and the cost can be a significant factor.

The cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier, especially for frequent appointments or during emergencies. Furthermore, the unpredictable nature of ride-sharing availability, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, adds an element of uncertainty to healthcare access. Still, ride-sharing does offer a valuable option for those who need it.

Specialized medical transportation services are available for individuals with specific needs. These services, often provided by companies like **CareRide** or **Medicaid-approved transportation providers**, offer door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. This can be a critical resource for individuals with severe asthma or other mobility limitations. These services are often covered by insurance, but prior authorization and scheduling are usually required.

**The "Asthma Score" and the Terrace Park Reality**

The “Asthma Score” for Terrace Park, considering the factors discussed, presents a mixed picture. The proximity to major roadways and the relatively short drive times to Cincinnati-area hospitals are positive aspects. However, the limited public transportation options and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing services and medical transportation pose challenges.

For individuals with well-controlled asthma, the driving options and the availability of local pharmacies and urgent care facilities might be sufficient. However, for those with more severe asthma, requiring frequent specialist visits or experiencing unpredictable exacerbations, the limitations of public transit and the potential challenges of ride-sharing or medical transport could significantly impact their healthcare access.

Moving to Terrace Park requires a careful assessment of these transportation considerations. Prospective residents should research the availability of their preferred healthcare providers, assess the feasibility of their chosen transportation methods, and consider the potential costs and limitations of each option.

The “Asthma Score” is not a definitive number, but a framework for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Terrace Park. By carefully evaluating the available transportation options and their potential impact on their healthcare needs, individuals with asthma can make an informed decision about whether this charming village is the right place to call home. The beauty of Terrace Park is undeniable, but for those with asthma, a thoughtful approach to transportation and healthcare access is essential for a healthy and fulfilling life.