44231, Garrettsville, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44231, Garrettsville, Ohio is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.56 percent of residents in 44231 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 12.13 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Garrettsville (ZIP Code 44231)

The specter of hypertension, a silent assailant, looms over communities nationwide. In Garrettsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44231), a town nestled in the rolling hills, the ability to effectively manage this condition hinges on one crucial factor: **transportation**. This write-up delves into the multifaceted landscape of **transportation** options, assessing their impact on **healthcare access** for residents, particularly those managing hypertension. Understanding these nuances is paramount, especially for individuals and families **moving to Garrettsville** seeking a healthy and supportive environment.

The very fabric of **healthcare access** in Garrettsville is interwoven with the efficiency and availability of its **transportation** network. For residents managing hypertension, timely access to appointments, medication refills, and essential check-ups is non-negotiable. Delays or difficulties in reaching medical facilities can exacerbate the condition, potentially leading to serious health complications. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the **transportation** options, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment for navigating the complexities of **healthcare access** within this specific ZIP code.

The primary artery of **transportation** in and out of Garrettsville is State Route 82. This two-lane highway provides a direct link to neighboring communities, including Hiram and Mantua, where some medical facilities are located. However, during peak hours, especially weekdays, traffic congestion can become a significant hurdle. The drive to University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, a larger facility offering specialized care, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via State Route 82 and State Route 44, assuming moderate traffic conditions. The journey to Cleveland Clinic facilities, such as those in the Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital, requires navigating Interstate 480 (I-480), adding approximately 45-60 minutes to the commute, depending on the location and traffic flow.

For those relying on public **transportation**, the options are limited. The Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides bus service in Portage County, but routes within Garrettsville are sparse. The primary PARTA route serving Garrettsville is the Route 310, which connects the town to Ravenna and Kent. However, this route operates on a limited schedule, with infrequent service, particularly on weekends. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, while mandated, may not always align perfectly with the needs of individuals with mobility challenges, making **healthcare access** more difficult for some.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative, albeit a potentially costly one. Availability in Garrettsville can fluctuate depending on demand and driver availability. While these services provide a convenient option for door-to-door **transportation**, the fares can quickly accumulate, posing a financial burden for those with chronic health conditions. The cost of frequent trips to medical appointments can significantly impact a patient's budget, potentially hindering their ability to maintain consistent care.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, offer a crucial lifeline for some. Companies such as MedRide and First Transit provide non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services, offering door-to-door assistance and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids. However, these services often require advance booking, and their availability can be constrained by scheduling demands. Furthermore, the cost of NEMT can vary depending on the distance and the specific needs of the patient, adding another layer of complexity to **healthcare access**.

For individuals **moving to Garrettsville** with hypertension, careful consideration of these **transportation** factors is essential. The proximity to medical facilities, the reliability of public **transportation**, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services should all be weighed. A comprehensive assessment of the local **transportation** landscape is vital for ensuring consistent and timely access to medical care, which is critical for managing hypertension effectively.

The "Hypertension Score" for Garrettsville (44231) reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by its **transportation** infrastructure. The score is a composite of several factors: the average drive times to various medical facilities, the frequency and reliability of public **transportation**, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility and cost of medical **transportation**.

The drive times to local medical facilities are generally manageable, but traffic congestion on State Route 82 and the longer commutes to Cleveland Clinic facilities can pose a challenge. Public **transportation** options are limited, with infrequent service and potential accessibility issues. Ride-sharing services offer a convenient but potentially expensive option. Medical **transportation** services provide a crucial lifeline for those with mobility limitations, but their availability and cost can be a concern.

For individuals with hypertension, the ideal scenario involves a combination of factors: a relatively short commute to a primary care physician, reliable access to medication refills, and easy access to specialized care when needed. In Garrettsville, achieving this ideal requires careful planning and a proactive approach to **transportation**.

For those **moving to Garrettsville**, a thorough investigation of the local **transportation** options is paramount. Researching the availability of medical **transportation** services, assessing the reliability of PARTA routes, and considering the potential costs of ride-sharing are crucial steps. Establishing a relationship with a local primary care physician and understanding their referral network for specialists are also vital.

The "Hypertension Score" for Garrettsville is, therefore, a nuanced assessment. While the town offers a relatively safe and quiet environment, the limitations in **transportation** infrastructure necessitate careful planning for individuals managing hypertension. The score emphasizes the importance of proactive **transportation** strategies, including utilizing multiple options, planning ahead for appointments, and seeking support from family, friends, or community resources.

In conclusion, while Garrettsville offers a desirable lifestyle for many, those with hypertension must carefully evaluate the implications of the local **transportation** landscape. The "Hypertension Score" serves as a reminder that **healthcare access** is not simply about the availability of medical facilities; it is also about the ability to reach them reliably, affordably, and without undue stress. For those **moving to Garrettsville**, a proactive approach to **transportation** is essential for managing hypertension effectively and ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life.