44093, Williamsfield, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44093, Williamsfield, Ohio is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

50.32 percent of residents in 44093 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lake Health with a distance of 36.54 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Williamsfield (ZIP Code 44093)

Williamsfield, Ohio, a rural community nestled in Ashtabula County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare. This analysis, focused on ZIP code 44093, explores the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. The goal is to assess the transportation infrastructure available, considering its impact on a patient's ability to regularly access medical appointments, obtain necessary medications, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. This assessment will inform a "Hypertension Score," ultimately reflecting the ease or difficulty of navigating the healthcare system within this specific geographic area. The insights gathered are particularly relevant for those considering moving to Williamsfield, allowing them to anticipate and plan for their healthcare needs.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is transportation. For residents of Williamsfield, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The rural nature of the area necessitates reliance on cars for most errands, including medical appointments. Interstate 90 (I-90), a major east-west artery, is the most significant highway influencing healthcare access. However, it lies north of Williamsfield, requiring travel on local roads to reach it. State Route 7 (SR-7) and State Route 322 (SR-322) are crucial for connecting Williamsfield to larger towns and cities, offering access to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.

Drive times are a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. Assuming a patient needs to reach a cardiologist in Ashtabula, the closest city with specialized medical services, the drive time can be estimated. From Williamsfield, the journey typically involves traveling south on SR-322, connecting to SR-7, and then navigating into Ashtabula. This drive, under ideal conditions, could take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, covering a distance of around 25 miles. During inclement weather, or rush hour, this drive time could easily extend, potentially impacting a patient's ability to adhere to scheduled appointments and maintain consistent medication refills.

Public transportation options in Williamsfield are extremely limited. Ashtabula County, like many rural areas, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. There are no fixed-route bus services operating within the immediate vicinity of Williamsfield. The absence of reliable public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car, are unable to drive due to age or disability, or cannot afford the costs associated with owning and operating a vehicle. This limitation directly impacts the Hypertension Score, as it restricts healthcare access for a segment of the population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ashtabula County area, but their presence is less consistent than in larger urban centers. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and driver availability. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and potentially expensive, especially for those on a fixed income. The cost and uncertainty associated with ride-sharing further contribute to the challenges of healthcare access in Williamsfield.

Medical transportation services offer an alternative for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies specialize in non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), providing services for individuals with mobility limitations or other health conditions. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. While NEMT can be a valuable resource, its availability and cost can still pose a barrier for some residents. The need for advance planning and potential cost considerations affect the Hypertension Score.

The availability of pharmacies within Williamsfield is also a factor. The need to fill prescriptions is an integral part of managing hypertension. If the local pharmacy is not readily accessible, patients must travel to a neighboring town or city to obtain their medications. This necessitates additional transportation, adding to the overall time and effort required to manage their condition. The distance to the nearest pharmacy and the associated travel time contribute to the Hypertension Score.

Healthcare access extends beyond transportation. The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers within a reasonable distance is crucial. Williamsfield's proximity to larger towns and cities, such as Ashtabula, offers access to a wider range of healthcare services. However, the drive times and transportation challenges discussed earlier still apply. The density of healthcare providers within the area, coupled with the ease of reaching them, directly influences the Hypertension Score.

The presence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant features on any available transportation options is vital for individuals with disabilities. The lack of accessible transportation can significantly limit healthcare access for this population. This consideration is particularly relevant in the context of Williamsfield, where the absence of a robust public transit system and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services could create significant barriers for individuals with mobility challenges. The availability of accessible transportation options directly impacts the Hypertension Score.

The overall lifestyle factors prevalent in Williamsfield, such as access to healthy food options, opportunities for physical activity, and social support networks, also influence the Hypertension Score. These factors indirectly impact a patient's ability to manage their hypertension. The availability of grocery stores with healthy food choices, the presence of walking trails or parks, and the strength of community support networks can all contribute to a patient's overall well-being and their ability to effectively manage their condition.

The Hypertension Score for Williamsfield (ZIP code 44093) would reflect the challenges and opportunities discussed. The score would be influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the availability and cost of medical transportation. Drive times to healthcare facilities, the distance to pharmacies, and the density of healthcare providers in the surrounding area would also be critical factors. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system and the reliance on personal vehicles significantly impact the Hypertension Score.

For individuals considering moving to Williamsfield and managing hypertension, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. They should factor in the drive times to medical appointments, the potential costs of transportation, and the availability of support services. Careful planning and proactive measures are necessary to ensure consistent access to healthcare. This assessment provides valuable insights for residents and potential newcomers, allowing them to navigate the healthcare system effectively and maintain their health. The Hypertension Score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in this rural community.