45715, Beverly, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 45715, Beverly, Ohio is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.93 percent of residents in 45715 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Marietta Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.99 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in ZIP Code 45715

The journey to breathe easy, especially for those managing asthma, is significantly impacted by access to healthcare. This write-up, an 'Asthma Score' analysis, focuses on transportation options for residents of ZIP Code 45715, aiming to illuminate the complexities of healthcare access. We’ll explore the drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, all crucial factors influencing a resident's ability to reach medical appointments and manage their condition. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape, allowing informed decisions about healthcare access, even if one is considering moving to Beverly.

The primary concern is the ease with which someone living in 45715 can reach medical facilities. This includes not only the distance but also the efficiency and reliability of the available transportation methods. A high 'Asthma Score' reflects ease of access, while a low score indicates significant challenges. This score will be derived by analyzing the availability, accessibility, and affordability of various transportation options.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

For many residents, personal vehicles represent the most direct route to healthcare. However, drive times can vary significantly depending on the destination and time of day. From the heart of 45715, the drive to major healthcare providers is a crucial metric.

The primary artery for north-south travel is **US Route 33**, which offers relatively quick access to Athens, Ohio. Driving to O'Bleness Hospital in Athens, a major regional medical center, typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive, while manageable, can be impacted by rush hour congestion, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Heading east, **Ohio Route 7** provides access to Marietta, Ohio, and its healthcare facilities. This route offers scenic views along the Ohio River, but the drive can be longer, potentially taking 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific location within 45715 and the destination in Marietta. This drive is also subject to potential delays due to traffic, particularly around Marietta's city center.

Westward travel is less common for healthcare needs, but **Ohio Route 60** offers access to Zanesville, Ohio. The drive to Zanesville, however, is considerably longer, often exceeding an hour, making it a less practical option for routine medical appointments.

These drive times highlight the importance of considering the location of healthcare providers when choosing a residence. The availability of a reliable vehicle is paramount, and the ability to navigate these highways and roads safely and efficiently is essential for maintaining consistent healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options within 45715 are limited. The availability of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

The **Athens Public Transit (APT)** provides some service, but its routes and schedules are primarily focused on Athens and may not directly serve all areas within 45715. Residents would likely need to arrange for transportation to Athens to access the APT system, adding to the complexity of their commute. Information regarding specific routes and ADA accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts and audio-visual announcements, can be found on the APT website.

The lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals with asthma, who may face difficulty coordinating transportation to medical appointments, especially during flare-ups. The reliance on personal vehicles or other forms of transportation underscores the need for careful planning and consideration when assessing healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as **CareRide** and **MedTransport**, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and may be equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they can be expensive, and their availability might be limited, requiring advance booking.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides a valuable safety net, but their limitations highlight the need for a multi-faceted approach to transportation planning. The reliability and affordability of these services are crucial factors in determining their impact on the 'Asthma Score'.

**The 'Asthma Score' and Implications for Healthcare Access**

Based on the analysis of drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing/medical transport availability, the 'Asthma Score' for 45715 is moderate. The drive times to Athens, the primary healthcare hub, are manageable, but the limited public transit options and the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability create challenges.

This score emphasizes the importance of careful consideration when assessing healthcare access. Individuals with asthma should prioritize:

* **Proximity to healthcare providers:** Choosing a residence closer to medical facilities can significantly reduce drive times and reliance on other transportation methods.
* **Reliable transportation:** Having access to a personal vehicle or a dependable alternative, such as a family member or friend, is crucial.
* **Financial planning:** Budgeting for ride-sharing or medical transport services is essential, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.
* **Proactive planning:** Scheduling medical appointments in advance and coordinating transportation arrangements well ahead of time can help mitigate potential challenges.

The 'Asthma Score' is not just a numerical value; it's a reflection of the real-world challenges faced by individuals with asthma in accessing healthcare. This analysis serves as a guide, helping residents of 45715 understand the transportation landscape and make informed decisions to ensure they receive the care they need, especially when considering moving to Beverly.