43078, Urbana, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43078, Urbana, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.42 percent of residents in 43078 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Urbana Hospital with a distance of 1.57 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Urbana, Ohio (ZIP Code 43078)

Urbana, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Champaign County, presents a unique tapestry of opportunities and challenges for its residents. For those considering a move to this charming community, understanding the landscape of healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, is paramount. This write-up, designed to inform prospective residents, delves into the transportation infrastructure that dictates the ease with which one can access vital medical services, ultimately contributing to a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the overall accessibility of care.

The ability to efficiently reach healthcare providers is a critical determinant of health outcomes, especially for individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and timely interventions are crucial for managing this silent killer. The "Hypertension Score" considers various transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, evaluating their impact on healthcare access within and around ZIP code 43078.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Urbana. The primary arteries for navigating the area are **U.S. Route 68** and **State Route 55**. These roads connect Urbana to neighboring towns and cities, offering direct routes to healthcare facilities. For instance, driving south on **U.S. Route 68** provides access to Springfield, Ohio, where larger hospitals and specialist clinics are located. The drive time to Springfield, depending on traffic, typically ranges from 25 to 40 minutes. Heading north on **U.S. Route 68** leads to Bellefontaine, Ohio, offering another option for healthcare services, with a drive time of approximately 30 minutes.

Within Urbana itself, navigating to local healthcare providers is generally straightforward. The Urbana Hospital, a Mercy Health facility, is conveniently located, minimizing drive times for residents. Accessing the hospital from most parts of the city is typically a matter of minutes, enhancing the "Hypertension Score" by facilitating quick access to emergency care and routine appointments.

However, reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact drive times. Weather conditions, especially during Ohio's harsh winters, can further complicate travel. These factors can indirectly influence the "Hypertension Score" by potentially delaying access to critical medical care.

Public transportation offers an alternative, albeit with limitations. The Champaign County Transportation (CCT) provides bus services within the county. While the CCT network serves Urbana, the frequency of routes and the coverage area may not fully meet the needs of all residents. Information regarding specific route numbers, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features is available through the Champaign County Transportation website or by contacting their office directly.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the accessibility of public transit for individuals with mobility limitations. The availability of wheelchair-accessible buses and other ADA accommodations significantly impacts the score, ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents. The limited scope of the public transit network, however, can impact the overall score, particularly for residents living in areas with less frequent service.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. While these services are available in Urbana, their availability and cost can fluctuate. The "Hypertension Score" must account for the potential for surge pricing and the reliability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The presence of ride-sharing services, however, does increase the overall accessibility of healthcare, especially for those without personal vehicles.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies offer these services in the Urbana area, including local ambulance services and specialized medical transport providers. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. The "Hypertension Score" benefits from the availability of medical transportation services, especially for individuals with limited mobility or those requiring specialized care.

When assessing the "Hypertension Score," factors such as the availability of pharmacies, the distance to grocery stores offering healthy food options, and the presence of community resources supporting healthy lifestyles are also considered. Access to pharmacies for medication refills is essential for managing hypertension. The proximity of grocery stores with fresh produce and healthy food choices empowers individuals to make informed dietary choices, further contributing to their well-being.

Moving to Urbana, Ohio, requires a comprehensive understanding of the local healthcare landscape. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for evaluating healthcare access, considering the interplay of transportation options, healthcare provider locations, and community resources. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment that evolves with changes in transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, and community initiatives.

The "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 43078 reflects a community with both strengths and weaknesses in healthcare access. The presence of a local hospital, the availability of personal vehicles, and the growing presence of ride-sharing services contribute positively to the score. However, the limitations of public transit, potential traffic congestion, and the need for reliable medical transportation services present challenges.

Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual transportation needs and healthcare requirements when evaluating the "Hypertension Score" for Urbana. Researching the specific healthcare providers, transportation options, and community resources that align with their needs is crucial. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for making informed decisions about healthcare access and ultimately, for fostering a healthier lifestyle in this charming Ohio community.