43728, Chesterhill, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43728, Chesterhill, Ohio is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

31.65 percent of residents in 43728 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth O'Bleness Hospital with a distance of 16.80 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Chesterhill, Ohio (ZIP Code 43728)

The quiet village of Chesterhill, nestled within the rolling hills of Morgan County, Ohio, presents a unique challenge when it comes to accessing healthcare. Residents of ZIP code 43728, a community often characterized by its rural setting, face the inherent difficulties of distance and limited transportation options. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent monitoring and care. The score will consider factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services, all crucial components of healthcare access within this specific geographical context.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Chesterhill is the reliance on personal vehicles. The nearest significant medical facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics, are located in surrounding towns and cities. A drive to Marietta Memorial Hospital, for instance, necessitates navigating a network of rural roads. The journey typically begins on State Route 377, a winding two-lane road that weaves its way through the countryside. This route then intersects with State Route 7, a more substantial highway that follows the Ohio River. The total drive time, under ideal conditions, is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, covering a distance of around 30 miles.

Alternatively, residents may choose to travel to Athens, Ohio, home to OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital. This route involves traveling on State Route 377, then connecting to State Route 550, a scenic but often slower option. The drive time to Athens is similar, averaging between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. These drive times, while manageable for some, can pose significant challenges for individuals with hypertension, especially during medical emergencies or for routine appointments. The time spent traveling can exacerbate health concerns and limit the frequency of necessary check-ups.

Public transportation options in Chesterhill are extremely limited, presenting a considerable barrier to healthcare access. The Southeastern Ohio Transit Authority (SEOTA) provides some bus service within Morgan County, but routes and schedules are infrequent, and the service area is limited. There are no direct routes that specifically serve Chesterhill with frequent service to medical facilities in Marietta or Athens. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, is not always guaranteed on all routes or at all times, adding another layer of complexity for those with disabilities. The lack of robust public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader region, but their presence in Chesterhill is inconsistent. The availability of drivers can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. This unreliability and cost factor further limit the viability of ride-sharing as a primary means of healthcare transportation for Chesterhill residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including MedTrans and First Response Ambulance Service. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, medical transport services often come with a higher price tag than other transportation options, and prior scheduling is usually required. This can create challenges for those needing urgent care or last-minute appointments. The availability of these services can also be limited, especially in a rural area like Chesterhill, potentially leading to delays in receiving medical attention.

For individuals considering moving to Chesterhill, the availability and accessibility of healthcare services should be a primary consideration. The Hypertension Score for this ZIP code is inherently impacted by the transportation challenges. The score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of the limitations imposed by the distance to healthcare facilities and the scarcity of alternative transportation options. The score will be influenced by the individual's ability to drive, their access to a reliable vehicle, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The challenges are compounded for individuals managing hypertension, a condition that demands regular monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments. The long drive times to medical appointments, coupled with the limited public transportation options, can make it difficult to adhere to recommended treatment plans. The lack of convenient access to healthcare can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Chesterhill (ZIP code 43728) is significantly influenced by the limitations in transportation and healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the infrequent public transit options, the inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the cost of medical transport services all contribute to a complex landscape. Residents must proactively plan for their healthcare needs, considering the time and financial implications of accessing medical services. For those with hypertension, careful consideration of these factors is crucial for managing their condition effectively and maintaining their overall health and well-being.