44146, Bedford, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44146, Bedford, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.24 percent of residents in 44146 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center with a distance of 3.60 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44146

The journey to effective hypertension management in ZIP code 44146, encompassing Bedford, Ohio, is intricately woven with the threads of transportation. A comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for this area must consider the accessibility of healthcare providers, factoring in drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. This analysis is critical for anyone considering moving to Bedford, particularly those managing hypertension or at risk of developing it.

The primary arteries of movement in 44146 are the interwoven highways and roads. Interstate 480 (I-480) serves as a vital east-west corridor, offering relatively swift access to Cleveland Clinic facilities and University Hospitals in surrounding areas. Traveling east on I-480 provides access to the Cleveland Clinic's Hillcrest Hospital, typically a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Heading west on I-480 connects to the main campus of the Cleveland Clinic, a slightly longer drive, averaging 30-45 minutes, again contingent on traffic flow.

State Route 14 (Broadway Avenue) and State Route 17 (Rockside Road) are crucial local arteries. Broadway Avenue, running north-south, offers access to local clinics and pharmacies. Rockside Road, also east-west, provides another route to I-480 and connects to commercial centers where medical offices are often located. These roads are generally less congested than the interstate, but traffic during peak hours can still impact drive times.

Public transportation, primarily through the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA), presents an alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer to avoid driving. Several bus routes serve the 44146 area, offering varying degrees of accessibility. Route 83-83A, for example, provides service along Broadway Avenue, connecting to the RTA's Red Line, which offers direct access to downtown Cleveland and major healthcare facilities.

The RTA’s ADA-accessible features, including ramps, lifts, and priority seating, are vital for individuals with mobility challenges, including those who may experience complications from hypertension. However, bus schedules and frequency can impact the overall "Hypertension Score." Longer wait times and multiple transfers can increase travel time, potentially creating barriers to timely medical appointments and medication refills.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services are readily available in 44146, providing on-demand transportation to medical appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent visits, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could create financial burdens.

Specialized medical transport services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or assistance with mobility. These services, like MedTrans and various local providers, can be invaluable for individuals who cannot independently access healthcare. They provide door-to-door service, often with trained personnel to assist with patient needs. However, the availability of these services and associated costs must be factored into the overall "Hypertension Score."

The "Hypertension Score" must also consider the proximity of local healthcare providers within 44146. Several primary care physicians and specialists are located in the immediate area, offering convenient access to routine checkups and medication management. The presence of local pharmacies ensures easy access to prescription refills. However, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists or nephrologists, may require travel to larger medical centers.

The ease of access to emergency medical services is another critical component of the "Hypertension Score." The proximity of local fire departments and ambulance services, and their response times, are crucial in managing hypertensive crises. Quick access to emergency care can significantly impact outcomes for individuals experiencing hypertensive emergencies.

The "Hypertension Score" for 44146 is not a static number; it's a dynamic assessment influenced by several factors. The time of day, traffic conditions, and the specific healthcare needs of the individual all play a role. For instance, an individual with limited mobility who relies on public transportation might experience a lower "Hypertension Score" compared to someone with a personal vehicle and access to ride-sharing services.

For those considering moving to Bedford, a careful evaluation of these transportation and healthcare access factors is essential. Researching the location of healthcare providers, understanding public transit routes, and assessing the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services will provide a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility. This proactive approach allows individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can effectively manage their hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" is not just about numbers; it's about the quality of life. Easy access to healthcare translates into better health outcomes, reduced stress, and a greater sense of security. By understanding the transportation landscape in 44146, individuals can make informed choices and proactively manage their health, ensuring a healthier and more fulfilling life in their new community.