45685, Thurman, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 45685, Thurman, Ohio is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.61 percent of residents in 45685 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Holzer Medical Center with a distance of 11.39 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in Thurman, Ohio (ZIP Code 45685)

The air hangs heavy in Thurman, Ohio, a rural community nestled in the verdant embrace of the Appalachian foothills. For residents managing asthma, this seemingly idyllic setting presents a unique challenge: navigating the complex landscape of healthcare access. This analysis, the "Asthma Score," delves into the transportation infrastructure available to individuals with asthma in ZIP code 45685, assessing the ease and efficiency of reaching vital medical services. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility for potential residents or those considering a move to Thurman.

The primary concern for individuals with asthma is timely access to medical care, especially during acute exacerbations. Delays in reaching a doctor or hospital can have severe consequences. The Asthma Score, therefore, prioritizes the speed and reliability of transportation options.

Thurman's location dictates that personal vehicles remain the dominant mode of transportation. The primary artery connecting Thurman to the outside world is **State Route 325**, a winding two-lane road that snakes through the rolling hills. Driving to the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics necessitates careful planning.

The closest major healthcare facility is Holzer Medical Center in Gallipolis, approximately 20 miles away. During optimal traffic conditions, the drive via **State Route 325** and **US Route 35** takes around 30 to 40 minutes. However, these estimates are subject to change. Weather conditions, particularly fog or ice, can significantly extend travel times, posing a significant risk for individuals experiencing asthma symptoms.

Another option is OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital in Athens, approximately 45 miles away. The journey involves navigating **State Route 325** to **US Route 33**, a route that can take up to an hour, depending on traffic. This longer commute increases the risk of complications during an asthma attack.

Public transportation options in Thurman are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to their condition.

The closest public transit service is provided by the Gallia-Jackson-Meigs Regional Transit Authority (GJMRTA). The GJMRTA operates a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service offers curb-to-curb transportation, but availability and scheduling can be a challenge, especially for urgent medical needs.

The GJMRTA’s routes are not specifically numbered, and information on ADA-accessible features is available by contacting the transit authority directly. The need for advance scheduling and the limited operational hours of the GJMRTA can create significant delays in accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not readily available in Thurman. The sparse population and rural location make it difficult for these services to operate profitably. This lack of ride-sharing options further restricts healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Several providers serve the region, including MedStar Ambulance and Rural Metro Ambulance. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. Furthermore, the availability of these services may be limited, particularly during peak hours or in emergency situations.

The Asthma Score in Thurman, Ohio, is influenced by several factors. The dependence on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the absence of readily available ride-sharing services create a challenging environment for individuals with asthma. The distance to healthcare facilities and the potential for weather-related delays further exacerbate these challenges.

The lack of readily available healthcare access can be a significant deterrent for individuals considering moving to Thurman. The need for reliable and timely transportation to medical appointments, specialist consultations, and emergency care is paramount for managing asthma effectively.

The Asthma Score is not merely a quantitative assessment of transportation options. It also considers the qualitative aspects of healthcare access. The stress and anxiety associated with navigating complex transportation systems during an asthma attack can be debilitating. The peace of mind that comes with knowing that reliable transportation is readily available is invaluable.

For individuals with asthma, the ability to quickly and efficiently access medical care is crucial for managing their condition and maintaining a good quality of life. The challenges of healthcare access in Thurman, Ohio, highlight the need for improved transportation infrastructure and services.

The development of a more robust public transportation system, including fixed-route buses and increased demand-response services, would significantly improve healthcare access for individuals with asthma. The expansion of ride-sharing services into the area would also provide a valuable alternative for those without personal vehicles.

Furthermore, the promotion of telemedicine and telehealth services could reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and medication management. These advancements would improve the Asthma Score and make Thurman a more welcoming community for individuals with asthma.

The Asthma Score for Thurman, Ohio, reflects the complex interplay between transportation, healthcare access, and the unique challenges faced by individuals with asthma in a rural setting. While the community offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the limitations in transportation options create a significant barrier to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges through infrastructure improvements, expanded service offerings, and innovative healthcare delivery models is essential to improving the quality of life for individuals with asthma in Thurman.