44086, Thompson, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44086, Thompson, Ohio is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.23 percent of residents in 44086 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake Health with a distance of 9.06 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Thompson, Ohio (ZIP Code 44086)

The tranquil rural landscape of Thompson, Ohio, offers a respite from the frenetic pace of city life. However, this idyllic setting presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 44086, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. We'll explore the realities of getting to appointments, the availability of specialists, and the overall ease of managing a chronic condition in this community.

The core of the issue lies in the distance. Thompson is geographically isolated, and the nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in neighboring towns and cities. This necessitates reliance on transportation, making it a crucial determinant of the Hypertension Score. The score itself is a composite measure reflecting the ease of access to care, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of alternative transportation options.

For residents with personal vehicles, the primary route to healthcare involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. The most direct route to facilities in Chardon, the county seat, typically involves traveling south on Thompson Road, which connects to State Route 608. From there, patients can access US Route 6, leading to the University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center, a critical healthcare provider. The drive time, under ideal conditions, is roughly 20-25 minutes.

However, this drive time can fluctuate significantly. Traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can extend the journey considerably. Road conditions, especially during winter months, add another layer of complexity. The potential for delays underscores the importance of proactive planning and the need for reliable transportation.

Venturing further afield to facilities in Mentor or Willoughby, which offer a broader range of specialists, requires a longer commute. This typically involves heading east on US Route 6, which merges onto Interstate 90. This route can be significantly impacted by traffic congestion, particularly during rush hour. The drive time to these locations can easily exceed 30-45 minutes, potentially impacting the timeliness of critical medical interventions.

Public transportation options in Thompson are limited. The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) does not directly serve the area. This lack of public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive due to age, disability, or other limitations.

For those reliant on public transit, the nearest GCRTA routes are accessible in Chardon. This necessitates a combination of transportation methods, such as a ride-share service or a ride with a friend or family member to reach a GCRTA bus stop. The lack of direct public transit connections is a major barrier to healthcare access for many Thompson residents.

The GCRTA offers some ADA-accessible buses. However, the reliance on multiple modes of transportation and the distance to the nearest accessible routes make this option less than ideal for individuals with mobility challenges. This further contributes to a lower Hypertension Score for those with disabilities.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Thompson can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), are another option. These services cater specifically to individuals requiring assistance getting to medical appointments. However, the availability of NEMT providers in Thompson and the associated costs can vary. Booking in advance is often required, adding another layer of complexity to the process.

The availability of specialized medical care within a reasonable distance is another critical factor influencing the Hypertension Score. While the University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center offers a range of services, access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists, may require travel to facilities in Mentor or Cleveland. This further increases the burden on transportation and underscores the importance of proactive planning.

The overall Hypertension Score for Thompson, Ohio (ZIP code 44086) reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access. The score is negatively impacted by the distance to medical facilities, the limited public transportation options, and the potential for delays due to traffic and weather. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-share services, or medical transportation adds to the complexity and cost of managing hypertension.

For individuals considering moving to Thompson, it is crucial to carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. The availability of reliable transportation is paramount for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Prospective residents should also research the availability of specialists and the ease of accessing essential medical services.

The community of Thompson, while offering a peaceful environment, necessitates a proactive approach to healthcare. Planning for transportation, understanding the limitations of public transit, and exploring alternative options like ride-share or medical transport are essential. This proactive approach can help mitigate the challenges of healthcare access and improve the overall Hypertension Score for residents of ZIP code 44086.

The success of managing hypertension in Thompson hinges on the ability to overcome transportation barriers. This requires a combination of personal responsibility, community support, and potentially, advocacy for improved transportation options. The goal is to ensure that all residents have timely and reliable access to the medical care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.