43768, Old Washington, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43768, Old Washington, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.41 percent of residents in 43768 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center with a distance of 7.05 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Old Washington (ZIP Code 43768)

Old Washington, Ohio, a charming village nestled in Guernsey County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. The area, characterized by rolling hills and a close-knit community, demands a nuanced understanding of transportation options to ensure effective **healthcare access**, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" framework, evaluating the ease and efficiency of **transportation** to medical facilities, crucial for individuals considering **moving to Old Washington** or currently residing there.

The cornerstone of this score is drive-time analysis. The primary medical hub for Old Washington residents is the Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center (SEORMC) in Cambridge, approximately 15 miles away. The most direct route involves traveling east on State Route 22, a winding but generally well-maintained two-lane road. Traffic is usually light, allowing for a drive time of around 20-25 minutes under normal conditions. However, weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times, potentially doubling the commute due to snow or ice.

Another option involves taking State Route 149, which intersects with State Route 22. This route, while slightly longer in distance, offers an alternative in case of accidents or road closures on the primary route. The drive time, however, remains in the same range, around 25-30 minutes. For residents living in the northern parts of the ZIP code, accessing SEORMC might involve a slightly longer drive, potentially utilizing Township Road 303 or County Road 11.

Beyond SEORMC, residents may need to access specialized care or services. The nearest major city offering a broader range of medical specialists is Zanesville, approximately 40 miles away. The most common route involves traveling east on State Route 22 to I-70 East. This journey can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions on I-70.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers public transit options. Unfortunately, public transportation in Guernsey County is limited. The Guernsey County Transit System offers demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. While this system is available, it may not be ideal for individuals with urgent medical needs or those requiring frequent appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, a critical factor in the "Hypertension Score" calculation.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be inconsistent. Demand in a rural area like Old Washington might be lower, leading to longer wait times or even the inability to secure a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This variability significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score."

Medical transport services offer another avenue for healthcare access. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) are available. These services typically cater to individuals who cannot drive themselves but do not require an ambulance. However, the cost of NEMT can be substantial, and availability might be limited, particularly for short-notice appointments. The "Hypertension Score" must factor in the financial implications of utilizing these services.

The "Hypertension Score" further evaluates the proximity of pharmacies. Access to medication is paramount for managing hypertension. The village of Old Washington has a local pharmacy, offering convenient access to prescriptions. However, for specialized medications or a wider selection of over-the-counter products, residents may need to travel to Cambridge or Zanesville.

The "Hypertension Score" also takes into account the availability of urgent care facilities. While SEORMC provides emergency services, the presence of an urgent care clinic in Cambridge offers an alternative for less critical medical needs. This can reduce the burden on the emergency room and provide quicker access to care for some conditions.

For individuals considering **moving to Old Washington**, the "Hypertension Score" serves as a vital tool. It underscores the importance of understanding the **transportation** landscape and its impact on **healthcare access**. The score is not a static number but rather a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of various factors.

The "Hypertension Score" would be calculated based on several weighted factors: drive times to medical facilities (weighted most heavily), public transit availability and accessibility, ride-sharing and medical transport reliability, pharmacy access, and the availability of urgent care facilities. The score would then be presented on a scale, reflecting the overall ease of accessing healthcare.

For example, a high "Hypertension Score" would indicate readily available and reliable **transportation** options, short drive times, and convenient access to a range of medical services. A lower score would highlight challenges, such as longer drive times, limited public transit, and potential difficulties securing **transportation** to medical appointments.

In conclusion, navigating the healthcare landscape in Old Washington requires careful consideration of **transportation** options. The "Hypertension Score" provides a framework for assessing the accessibility of healthcare services, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. For those contemplating **moving to Old Washington**, understanding the nuances of **healthcare access** is essential for ensuring effective management of chronic conditions like hypertension. The score acts as a guide, illuminating the pathways to care and helping residents prioritize their health in this charming, yet geographically unique, community. The score is designed to offer a realistic view of the challenges and opportunities that come with living in a rural area and to help individuals manage their hypertension effectively.