43731, Crooksville, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43731, Crooksville, Ohio is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.70 percent of residents in 43731 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 17.03 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Crooksville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43731)

Considering a move to Crooksville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43731)? Beyond the charming small-town atmosphere, it’s crucial to assess your healthcare access, particularly if you manage hypertension. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" analysis, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities. We will delve into drive times, public transit availability, and ride-share/medical transport services, offering a realistic picture for individuals managing this chronic condition. This information will help you make an informed decision about your healthcare needs.

The foundation of our assessment is the understanding that timely and reliable transportation is critical for managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency visits necessitate efficient travel to healthcare providers. The "Hypertension Score" will consider the accessibility of these services, evaluating the ease with which residents can reach essential medical appointments.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

For many Crooksville residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore a significant factor in our score. The closest major medical center is Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, approximately 20 miles away. The most direct route involves taking State Route 60 North. Expect a drive time of roughly 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times, especially during snow or ice events.

Another option is to head south on State Route 93, which connects to State Route 78 and then to Zanesville. This route is slightly longer, adding approximately 10-15 minutes to the drive, but offers alternative options if State Route 60 is experiencing congestion. Residents should be aware of the potential for delays, particularly during peak commuting hours or during periods of inclement weather.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are scattered throughout the surrounding area. The Crooksville Medical Clinic offers primary care services within the community. While convenient, it's essential to consider the availability of specialized care, which often necessitates travel to Zanesville or other larger cities.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Crooksville are limited. The Muskingum County Transit (MCT) provides some services within the county, but routes and schedules are infrequent. The MCT operates a demand-response system, meaning you must schedule rides in advance. This can be challenging for spontaneous appointments or emergency situations.

The MCT does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, which are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and scheduling requirements make public transit a less viable option for many residents, especially those with hypertension who require frequent medical attention. This significantly impacts the overall "Hypertension Score" for those relying on public transit.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Zanesville area, but their presence in Crooksville is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Relying solely on ride-share for medical appointments can be risky, as delays or cancellations are possible.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans and First Call Ambulance, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services are often equipped with trained personnel and can accommodate individuals with specific medical needs. However, they can be expensive and require prior arrangements. The availability of these services is a positive factor, but their cost and the need for pre-planning must be considered.

**The "Hypertension Score" Calculation:**

The "Hypertension Score" for Crooksville, Ohio, considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The distance and time required to reach primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The frequency, accessibility, and reliability of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Share/Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and reliability of ride-share and medical transport services.
* **Clinic Proximity:** The presence of local clinics and their ability to provide comprehensive care.
* **Weather Conditions:** The impact of weather on transportation and healthcare access.

Based on these factors, the "Hypertension Score" for Crooksville, Ohio, is moderate. While the Crooksville Medical Clinic offers local primary care, access to specialized services requires travel to Zanesville. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-share services present challenges. The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net, but the cost and pre-planning requirements are a consideration.

**Moving to Crooksville: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For individuals with hypertension considering moving to Crooksville, a proactive approach to healthcare planning is essential. Before relocating, it's advisable to:

* **Confirm Primary Care:** Establish care with a local physician or clinic and ensure that they accept your insurance.
* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive or arrange for transportation to medical appointments.
* **Research Specialist Access:** Determine the availability of specialists in the Zanesville area and understand the referral process.
* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Familiarize yourself with medical transport services and their associated costs.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop an emergency plan that includes transportation to the nearest emergency room.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals with hypertension can make an informed decision about whether Crooksville is the right place for them. The community offers a peaceful environment, but access to healthcare requires careful planning and consideration of the transportation options available. This "Hypertension Score" provides a foundation for understanding the healthcare landscape and making informed decisions about your move. Remember, proactive planning is key to managing your health effectively in any new environment.