44234, Hiram, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44234, Hiram, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.16 percent of residents in 44234 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 11.23 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 44234

The decision to relocate, especially to a new community, often hinges on practical considerations beyond aesthetics. For individuals managing hypertension, the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount. This write-up, focusing on ZIP Code 44234 (Hiram, Ohio), delves into the intricacies of accessing medical care, specifically for hypertension management, considering the diverse transportation options available. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, allowing potential residents to evaluate the ease with which they can obtain necessary healthcare services.

The primary factor in our assessment is the drive time to healthcare facilities. Within 44234, the immediate healthcare landscape is somewhat limited. The closest primary care physicians and specialists are primarily located in Ravenna, Streetsboro, and Aurora. Driving from Hiram to Ravenna, the most direct route involves taking State Route 700 south, which then merges onto State Route 14. This journey, typically covering approximately 10 miles, can take between 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.

For those seeking specialized care, such as cardiology or endocrinology, the drive to Streetsboro or Aurora becomes necessary. Traveling to Streetsboro generally involves heading west on State Route 700 and connecting to State Route 44, a route that can take around 20 to 30 minutes, spanning approximately 15 miles. Aurora, slightly further, requires navigating State Route 44 north, then connecting to the Ohio Turnpike (I-80) or other local roads, adding an additional 10 to 15 minutes to the travel time, making the total commute approximately 25 to 45 minutes.

Public transportation options in this area are limited. Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides some service within Portage County, but its routes and schedules are not designed for frequent or direct commutes to healthcare facilities from Hiram. Currently, PARTA's routes do not directly service Hiram with any frequency. While PARTA does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, the lack of readily accessible routes significantly impacts the 'Hypertension Score' for individuals reliant on public transit. This lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, potentially hindering their ability to adhere to regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation solution. However, the availability and cost of these services in a more rural area like 44234 can be variable. While these services are generally available, the wait times and fares can be higher compared to more urban areas. This fluctuation in cost and availability can create a degree of uncertainty for individuals needing predictable and affordable transportation to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations or other healthcare needs, provide another avenue for healthcare access. Companies like MedTrans and various local ambulance services offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often require advance booking and may have associated costs, but they provide a reliable option for those unable to drive or utilize other forms of transportation. The availability and cost of these services, however, should be carefully considered when evaluating the overall 'Hypertension Score.'

The 'Hypertension Score' for 44234 is influenced by the interplay of these factors. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are generally manageable, the lack of robust public transportation options and the potential variability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial safety net, but the associated costs must be factored into the equation.

For individuals considering moving to Hiram and managing hypertension, it is crucial to assess their transportation needs carefully. Those who drive or have access to a reliable vehicle will likely find healthcare access relatively straightforward, albeit with the need to factor in travel time. Individuals reliant on public transportation or with mobility limitations will need to carefully evaluate the availability and cost of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The ease of healthcare access is a critical element in managing hypertension effectively. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are vital for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications. The ability to attend appointments and access necessary medical services without undue stress or inconvenience is paramount.

The 'Hypertension Score' for 44234, therefore, is a nuanced assessment. It acknowledges the availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance but highlights the limitations of public transportation and the potential variability of ride-sharing services. The presence of medical transportation options provides a crucial safeguard, but the associated costs and booking requirements must be considered.

The decision to relocate to Hiram should be made with a clear understanding of these transportation realities. Potential residents should research the specific healthcare providers they intend to use, assess their transportation needs, and explore the available options. This proactive approach will ensure that healthcare access is not a barrier to a healthy and fulfilling life in the community.

In conclusion, while 44234 offers a peaceful setting, the 'Hypertension Score' for healthcare access is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles or the need to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation services necessitates careful planning and consideration. Prospective residents should prioritize a thorough evaluation of their individual transportation needs to ensure they can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their health. The availability of medical transportation services provides a critical layer of support, but the overall score reflects the need for careful planning and proactive management of transportation logistics to ensure consistent and reliable healthcare access. The community's quiet charm is tempered by the realities of transportation logistics, making healthcare access a key factor in the decision to move to Hiram.