43019, Fredericktown, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43019, Fredericktown, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.46 percent of residents in 43019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Knox Community Hospital with a distance of 9.50 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43019**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Fredericktown, Ohio, ZIP code 43019, the challenge of reaching medical services, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This write-up will assess the commute to healthcare, providing a 'Hypertension Score' based on the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical appointments. The analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport options, all vital components of healthcare access.

The 'Hypertension Score' is not a simple numerical value. It's a qualitative assessment, a portrait of the transportation landscape and its impact on individuals living with hypertension. This score considers the stress of travel, the availability of reliable options, and the potential for delays, all of which can exacerbate the condition. For those considering moving to Fredericktown, understanding this score is crucial for informed decision-making.

**Driving to Healthcare: A Road-Based Assessment**

For many residents of 43019, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The proximity to Columbus, Ohio, offers a wider range of healthcare facilities, but the journey can be a significant factor. The major thoroughfare connecting Fredericktown to the larger metropolitan area is State Route 95, a two-lane road that can experience congestion, especially during peak hours.

Heading west on State Route 95 toward I-71, the drive to Mount Carmel St. Ann's Hospital in Westerville, a common destination for specialized care, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The route involves navigating I-71 South, a major interstate known for its high traffic volume. This commute, while manageable, requires careful planning, particularly for individuals with hypertension who may experience increased stress in heavy traffic.

Another option is to travel east on State Route 95 to reach facilities in Mansfield, Ohio. This journey is generally shorter, around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions. This route offers a less congested alternative, especially for those seeking services at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. The roads are generally well-maintained, but weather conditions can significantly impact travel times, particularly during winter months.

For local healthcare needs, Fredericktown has its own medical facilities. The Fredericktown Medical Center provides primary care services. However, for specialized treatment, residents often need to travel outside the immediate vicinity. The drive to these facilities, while often shorter, still requires consideration, especially for those experiencing symptoms of hypertension.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in 43019 are limited. The Knox Area Transit (KAT) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not designed for frequent or direct access to healthcare facilities outside of Fredericktown. KAT's services are primarily focused on local transportation, and the frequency of trips is not conducive to regular medical appointments.

The lack of robust public transit poses a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. This limitation particularly impacts seniors and those with disabilities, groups often most vulnerable to the effects of hypertension. The absence of reliable public transit can lead to missed appointments, delayed care, and increased health risks. The absence of ADA-compliant buses or routes outside of town makes this a very significant barrier.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which can be limited in a rural area like Fredericktown. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make ride-sharing an expensive option, potentially deterring individuals from seeking necessary medical care.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the region. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria. The availability of NEMT is a crucial component of healthcare access, but it's essential to investigate the specific services available, their coverage area, and their associated costs.

**The Hypertension Score: A Qualitative Assessment**

Considering the factors outlined above, the 'Hypertension Score' for 43019 reflects a mixed picture. The availability of healthcare facilities within Fredericktown offers a baseline level of access. However, the need to travel for specialized care and the limitations of transportation options create significant challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-share services contribute to a moderate level of healthcare access. The stress of driving in traffic, the potential for delays, and the cost of ride-sharing can exacerbate the condition of individuals with hypertension. The availability of medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but their limitations must be considered.

For those considering moving to Fredericktown, the 'Hypertension Score' underscores the importance of assessing individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements. While the area offers a pleasant rural environment, the ability to access healthcare services requires careful planning and consideration of available resources. The score serves as a reminder that healthcare access is not simply about the availability of medical facilities but also about the ability to reach them safely and efficiently.