45419, Dayton, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 45419, Dayton, Ohio is 84 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.84 percent of residents in 45419 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Kettering Health Main Campus with a distance of 1.75 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45419

The air hangs heavy in the heart of Dayton, Ohio, a city steeped in history and striving for a brighter future. For residents of ZIP Code 45419, a significant consideration when assessing quality of life is the ease of access to healthcare, particularly for those managing respiratory conditions like asthma. This analysis, framed as an "Asthma Score," delves into the realities of transportation options available to reach medical facilities, considering the impact on individuals with asthma. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access, which is crucial for anyone moving to Dayton or residing within this specific area.

The primary challenge for residents of 45419 lies in its geographical layout and the dispersion of healthcare facilities. While the area itself boasts a mix of residential and commercial zones, the major hospitals and specialized clinics are often situated outside its immediate boundaries. This necessitates careful planning and understanding of available transportation. The impact of commute times on asthma sufferers, especially during peak traffic, cannot be overstated. Prolonged exposure to vehicle emissions and stress can exacerbate symptoms, making timely access to medical care even more critical.

Driving remains the most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in 45419. Several major thoroughfares connect the area to key medical hubs. Interstate 75 (I-75) is the primary artery, offering relatively direct routes north and south. However, traffic congestion on I-75, particularly during rush hour, can significantly extend travel times. The stretch between Needmore Road and North Main Street, in particular, is prone to bottlenecks.

Another important route is U.S. Route 35 (US-35), providing east-west access. US-35 connects 45419 to hospitals located east of the area, such as Kettering Health Dayton. While US-35 generally flows more freely than I-75, accidents or construction can still cause delays. Local roads like North Main Street, Salem Avenue, and Shiloh Springs Road serve as crucial connectors, offering alternative routes but often with slower speeds and more stop-and-go traffic.

The drive time to the region's major hospitals varies considerably depending on traffic and the specific location within 45419. Reaching Miami Valley Hospital, located south of the area, can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes via I-75, depending on traffic. Kettering Health Dayton, accessible via US-35, might require a 20 to 40-minute drive. These times are significantly impacted by peak traffic hours, potentially adding an extra 15 to 20 minutes to the journey, a crucial factor for individuals experiencing an asthma attack.

Public transportation, while available, presents a more complex scenario. The Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates several bus routes that serve 45419. Route 1 provides service along North Main Street, offering a connection to downtown Dayton and other transfer points. Route 15 travels along Salem Avenue, connecting to various destinations. Route 16 provides service along Shiloh Springs Road. Route 17 provides service along Needmore Road. These routes, while offering a cost-effective alternative, are often characterized by longer travel times compared to driving.

The RTA strives to provide accessible services, with all fixed-route buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, the frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, requiring careful planning and potentially extended wait times. Transfers between routes can also add significant time to the overall journey. For asthma sufferers, the potential for prolonged exposure to environmental triggers during bus travel, coupled with the stress of navigating a complex public transit system, can be a significant concern.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for transfers and reducing the overall travel time compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers, particularly during peak hours or in less densely populated areas of 45419, may be limited.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with healthcare needs, represent another option. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans offer specialized transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. These services typically provide door-to-door transport and can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. However, these services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, which can be a financial burden.

The Asthma Score for 45419 is not simply a numerical value; it is a nuanced assessment of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access. Factors such as commute times, public transit reliability, and the availability of specialized transportation services all contribute to the overall score. For individuals with asthma, the ability to quickly and reliably reach medical care is paramount. This analysis underscores the importance of considering all transportation options when evaluating the suitability of 45419 as a place to live, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.

The ongoing development of transportation infrastructure, including potential improvements to bus routes and the expansion of ride-sharing services, could positively impact the Asthma Score. Moreover, the location of new healthcare facilities within or closer to 45419 would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. As Dayton continues to evolve, prioritizing accessible and efficient transportation options for all residents, especially those with healthcare needs, will be crucial to fostering a healthier and more inclusive community.