45239, Cincinnati, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 45239, Cincinnati, Ohio is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.41 percent of residents in 45239 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hospitalist Medicine Physicians Of Ohio, Professional Corporation with a distance of 2.32 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 45239

For individuals and families considering a move to Cincinnati, particularly those managing asthma, understanding healthcare access is paramount. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment for ZIP Code 45239, focusing on transportation options to medical facilities. The goal is to illuminate the complexities of navigating healthcare access, considering both the advantages and disadvantages of available transportation methods. This information will aid in informed decisions regarding relocating and establishing a healthy lifestyle in this specific area.

ZIP Code 45239, encompassing parts of Anderson Township, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While offering suburban amenities, its sprawling nature impacts transportation options. Evaluating the "Asthma Score" requires a deep dive into drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers. The analysis will highlight the challenges and opportunities for those seeking prompt and reliable medical attention.

**Driving the Distance: A Car-Dependent Reality**

The most common mode of transportation in 45239 is the personal vehicle. Drive times to healthcare facilities are significantly influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. Major arteries like **Beechmont Avenue (US-50)**, **Five Mile Road**, and **Clough Pike** are vital for reaching hospitals and clinics. The speed of travel on these roads can fluctuate considerably.

Driving to major hospitals such as Mercy Hospital Anderson, located within the ZIP code, offers a relatively short commute, typically under 15 minutes depending on traffic. However, accessing larger hospitals like the University of Cincinnati Medical Center or Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, located outside the immediate area, requires navigating the **I-275 loop** or **Columbia Parkway (US-50)**. These journeys can easily extend to 30-45 minutes, particularly during rush hour. This variability underscores the importance of factoring in potential delays when scheduling appointments or needing emergency care.

The "Asthma Score" will deduct points for longer drive times, especially during peak hours. The potential for exposure to pollutants from vehicle exhaust adds another layer of concern, particularly for those with asthma.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating as Metro, provides public transportation within Cincinnati. However, the availability of public transit in 45239 is limited compared to more urban areas. Several bus routes serve the area, including the **24, 25, and 30** routes, primarily running along Beechmont Avenue and connecting to downtown Cincinnati.

While these routes offer an alternative to driving, their frequency and coverage are less comprehensive. Travel times on public transit are significantly longer than driving, often requiring transfers and extended wait times. This can be a significant disadvantage for individuals with asthma, who may require rapid access to medical care.

Furthermore, assessing the "Asthma Score" must consider the accessibility of these routes. While Metro strives to provide ADA-compliant buses, the physical demands of navigating bus stops, waiting in potentially adverse weather conditions, and the potential for exposure to allergens on the bus can be challenging for asthma sufferers. The score will reflect the limitations of public transit in terms of frequency, coverage, and accessibility.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. Availability in 45239 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs. The reliability of these services is also subject to fluctuations, potentially impacting access to timely medical care.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized option. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during transport. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

The "Asthma Score" will consider the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, recognizing their role in bridging transportation gaps.

**Healthcare Access: A Geographical Perspective**

The proximity of healthcare facilities to 45239 significantly impacts the "Asthma Score." Mercy Hospital Anderson, located within the ZIP code, offers immediate access to emergency care and specialized services. Numerous primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care clinics are also located within the area, providing convenient access to routine medical care.

However, access to specialized care, such as pulmonologists or allergy specialists, may require travel to facilities located outside the immediate area. This necessitates considering the drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The "Asthma Score" will factor in the density of healthcare providers within and around 45239, assessing the ease of access to various medical specialties.

**Environmental Considerations: A Crucial Factor**

The environmental quality of 45239 plays a critical role in the "Asthma Score." Air quality, particularly the levels of particulate matter and ozone, can significantly impact asthma symptoms. Proximity to major roadways, industrial areas, and seasonal pollen counts can influence air quality.

The score will incorporate data on local air quality, considering the potential for environmental triggers. Furthermore, the availability of green spaces and parks, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and improved air quality, will be considered.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The "Asthma Score" for 45239 reflects a mixed picture. While the area offers convenient access to some healthcare facilities and a suburban lifestyle, the transportation options present challenges for individuals with asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the variability of ride-sharing services require careful consideration.

For individuals considering moving to Cincinnati and choosing 45239, the "Asthma Score" highlights the importance of:

* **Assessing proximity to healthcare facilities.**
* **Planning for potential traffic delays.**
* **Understanding the limitations of public transit.**
* **Exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.**
* **Considering environmental factors, including air quality and access to green spaces.**

By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and create a supportive environment for managing asthma. The "Asthma Score" is not just a numerical assessment; it is a call to action, encouraging prospective residents to proactively plan for their health and well-being in their new community. Moving to Cincinnati can be a positive experience when armed with the right information.