43786, Stafford, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43786, Stafford, Ohio is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.31 percent of residents in 43786 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 19.79 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stafford, Ohio (ZIP Code 43786)

Considering a move to Stafford, Ohio (ZIP Code 43786)? This assessment delves into the nuances of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding these factors is crucial for maintaining consistent medical care and a healthy lifestyle. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" based on the availability and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities.

The cornerstone of hypertension management is regular medical checkups and medication adherence. Therefore, readily available and reliable transportation is paramount. Stafford, nestled in rural southeastern Ohio, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding transportation and healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" aims to quantify these complexities, providing a realistic picture for prospective residents.

**The Score's Methodology:**

The "Hypertension Score" considers several key elements: drive times to healthcare providers, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. Each category is weighted based on its impact on a patient's ability to attend appointments, refill prescriptions, and access emergency care. The final score reflects the overall ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare landscape in Stafford.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for most residents of Stafford. The proximity to healthcare facilities significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." The nearest hospitals and specialist clinics are located in surrounding towns and cities.

The primary route for accessing healthcare often involves navigating **Ohio State Route 78** and **Ohio State Route 26**. Depending on the specific destination, these routes can lead to towns like Caldwell, Woodsfield, and Marietta. Drive times fluctuate based on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location of the healthcare provider.

For instance, a drive to the nearest hospital, Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center in Cambridge, Ohio, typically takes approximately 45 minutes via **Ohio State Route 78** and **Interstate 77**. This drive time, while manageable, underscores the reliance on personal vehicles.

Accessing specialized clinics and specialists in larger cities like Marietta, OH, or Zanesville, OH, can require longer drives. The route to Marietta often utilizes **Ohio State Route 7** and can take over an hour, depending on traffic. Zanesville is typically accessed via **Interstate 77**, with a drive time of around an hour and fifteen minutes. These longer drive times can be a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, especially during emergencies or when frequent appointments are necessary.

The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the importance of these drive times, factoring in the potential for increased stress and inconvenience associated with longer travel distances.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Stafford is limited. The local transit authority, if one exists, likely operates on a demand-response basis, meaning services must be scheduled in advance. This type of service may not be conducive to spontaneous medical needs or urgent appointments.

The availability of public transportation significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score." Limited public transit reduces the options for individuals who do not drive or cannot drive. The absence of readily available public transit can make it difficult to attend regular appointments, pick up medications, or access emergency care.

ADA-compliant features on public transit are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. The availability of these features is factored into the "Hypertension Score."

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may have a limited presence in Stafford. The availability of these services is crucial for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or cannot drive. Ride-sharing can provide a convenient and affordable option for accessing healthcare. However, the reliability and availability of these services can vary.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. Companies like First Call Medical Transport and MedCare Ambulance may operate in the area. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, offering a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the availability and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, recognizing their importance in bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers.

**The "Hypertension Score" in Context**

The "Hypertension Score" for Stafford, Ohio (ZIP Code 43786) reflects the realities of rural healthcare access. The score considers the challenges of longer drive times, the limitations of public transportation, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Factors influencing the score include:**

* **Drive Times:** The distance to the nearest hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
* **Public Transportation:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The presence and reliability of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability of specialized medical transport services.
* **Road Conditions:** The quality and maintenance of roads, particularly during inclement weather.

**Recommendations for Individuals with Hypertension considering a move to Stafford:**

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate your ability to drive and the reliability of your vehicle.
* **Research Local Healthcare Providers:** Identify the locations of your preferred doctors and specialists.
* **Investigate Ride-Sharing Availability:** Determine the presence and reliability of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Explore Medical Transport Options:** Research the availability and cost of medical transport services.
* **Plan for Emergencies:** Develop a plan for accessing emergency medical care, including knowing the location of the nearest hospital and ambulance services.
* **Consider Proximity to Essential Services:** Prioritize housing options closer to healthcare providers and pharmacies.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The "Hypertension Score" serves as a valuable tool for individuals with hypertension considering a move to Stafford. It provides a realistic assessment of healthcare access, highlighting the challenges and opportunities. By understanding the transportation landscape, prospective residents can make informed decisions and proactively plan for their healthcare needs. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for ensuring consistent medical care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle in Stafford. The ability to navigate the transportation options effectively is vital for successful healthcare access and quality of life.