45732, Glouster, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 45732, Glouster, Ohio is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.36 percent of residents in 45732 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.43 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth O'Bleness Hospital with a distance of 12.59 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in 45732

The air hangs heavy in the Hocking Hills, a tapestry of verdant beauty woven with the potential for respiratory challenges. For individuals managing asthma, the journey to healthcare in ZIP code 45732, encompassing the village of Glouster and its surrounding areas, demands careful consideration. This write-up assesses the “Asthma Score” for healthcare access, focusing on transportation options and their impact on residents, particularly those contemplating a move to this Appalachian community.

Healthcare access is a critical component of overall well-being, and for those with asthma, it's a matter of life and breath. Efficient and reliable transportation is paramount. The Asthma Score here is multifaceted, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. Each factor contributes to the overall ease or difficulty of reaching medical appointments, filling prescriptions, and accessing emergency care.

The primary artery for vehicular travel in and out of Glouster is State Route 32, the "Corridor D" of the Appalachian Development Highway System. This two-lane highway provides a direct link to Athens, the county seat, approximately 20 miles east. Drive times to Athens can vary, typically taking around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The route winds through rolling hills and forested areas, offering scenic views but also presenting potential challenges during inclement weather.

Further access is provided by State Route 13, which intersects with Route 32 in Glouster. This road offers a more northerly route, connecting to Nelsonville and beyond. Driving to Nelsonville, a town with some healthcare facilities, takes roughly 20-30 minutes. However, Route 13 is also a two-lane road, and traffic can be slow, especially during peak hours.

For those without personal vehicles, public transportation options are limited. The Athens County Transit System (ACTS) provides a lifeline, offering bus service throughout the county. However, service to Glouster and the surrounding areas is infrequent, with limited routes and schedules. Riders should carefully consult the ACTS schedule and plan their trips accordingly. The buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.

The ACTS bus routes serving Glouster are primarily focused on connecting residents to Athens. This means that individuals needing to reach healthcare providers in other locations, such as Nelsonville or larger medical centers further afield, would face a more complex and time-consuming journey. The lack of frequent service and the potential for long wait times significantly impact the Asthma Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Athens and Nelsonville, but their presence in Glouster is less consistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand. Calling for a ride can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in the evenings. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not recommended.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance with transportation, provide a valuable alternative. Several brands operate in the region, including MedRide and First Call Medical Transportation. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel who can assist patients with mobility issues. However, medical transport can be expensive, and prior arrangements are usually required.

The Asthma Score for healthcare access in 45732 is influenced by several factors. While the drive times to Athens and Nelsonville are reasonable, the limited public transportation options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services present significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles or medical transport adds to the complexity.

For individuals with asthma, the ability to quickly access medical care is crucial. Delays in reaching appointments or the inability to obtain timely medical attention can lead to exacerbations and potentially life-threatening situations. This is a critical consideration for those considering moving to Glouster.

The Asthma Score is further impacted by the location of healthcare providers. While Athens offers a range of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices, the distance and the transportation challenges can create barriers to access. The availability of specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, is also a factor.

Furthermore, the cost of healthcare and transportation must be considered. Medical bills, prescription costs, and the expense of transportation can place a significant financial burden on individuals with asthma. The availability of financial assistance programs and the acceptance of various insurance plans by local healthcare providers are important considerations.

When assessing the Asthma Score, it's important to consider the specific needs of the individual. For those with severe asthma or those who require frequent medical attention, the transportation challenges in 45732 may be a significant concern. Individuals with mobility issues or those who do not have access to a personal vehicle will face even greater obstacles.

The decision to move to Glouster or any other area requires careful consideration of all aspects of life, including healthcare access. For those with asthma, the transportation options and the proximity of healthcare providers are critical factors. Potential residents should research local healthcare facilities, assess the availability of transportation, and consider the financial implications of healthcare access.

In conclusion, the Asthma Score for healthcare access in 45732 is moderate. While the drive times to nearby towns are reasonable, the limited public transportation options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. Individuals with asthma considering a move to Glouster should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and ensure they have a reliable plan for accessing medical care. The scenic beauty of the Hocking Hills is undeniable, but for those with respiratory conditions, the accessibility of healthcare must be a top priority.