44251, Westfield Center, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44251, Westfield Center, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.02 percent of residents in 44251 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 4.31 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Westfield Center (44251)

The quiet charm of Westfield Center, Ohio, a community nestled in the heart of Medina County, offers a desirable quality of life. Yet, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of accessing essential healthcare becomes a critical consideration. This write-up explores the "Hypertension Score" for 44251, evaluating the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by individuals with hypertension who require regular medical attention. This analysis is crucial for current residents and those contemplating moving to Westfield Center, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The "Hypertension Score" considers various factors, including drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services. This holistic approach paints a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape, providing a clear understanding of the logistical hurdles individuals with hypertension might encounter.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

For many residents, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. The proximity to major roadways significantly impacts healthcare access. The primary arteries serving Westfield Center are State Route 224 and State Route 301. Traveling east on SR-224 provides access to Medina, approximately a 20-minute drive, where several medical facilities, including Cleveland Clinic Medina Hospital and University Hospitals Medina Hospital, are located. These hospitals offer comprehensive cardiology services, crucial for hypertension management.

Heading west on SR-224 leads to Ashland, roughly a 30-minute drive. While Ashland may offer fewer specialized cardiology services compared to Medina, it still provides alternative healthcare options. The drive on SR-301 north and south offers access to smaller towns and medical offices, but the services offered are often limited compared to the larger hospitals.

Rush hour traffic, particularly on SR-224, can significantly extend drive times, potentially adding stress for individuals with hypertension. Furthermore, weather conditions, especially during Ohio's harsh winters, can exacerbate these delays, making timely access to healthcare more challenging. Individuals considering moving to Westfield Center should factor in these potential delays when assessing their healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Westfield Center are limited. The Medina County Transit (MCT) provides demand-response services, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This service is available within Medina County, offering a potential solution for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. However, the scheduling process and potential wait times can be a significant barrier, especially for individuals requiring urgent medical attention.

The MCT operates with ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service and the requirement for advance booking make it less convenient for routine check-ups or unexpected medical needs. While a valuable resource, public transit alone may not fully meet the transportation needs of individuals with hypertension in Westfield Center.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, like CareRide and GoGoGrandparent, specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can be a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, these services typically require advance booking and may involve additional costs.

**The "Hypertension Score" in Context:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 44251 reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Medina and Ashland offers access to comprehensive healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. Individuals with hypertension must carefully consider these factors when assessing their healthcare access.

The ideal "Hypertension Score" would incorporate readily available public transit, readily available ride-sharing, and medical transport options, and would have short travel times to a variety of healthcare providers. The current score for Westfield Center is somewhat diminished by the lack of these options, and the reliance on private transportation.

**Moving to Westfield Center: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For those considering moving to Westfield Center, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs is essential. Individuals with hypertension should evaluate their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Exploring the healthcare landscape before making a move is critical. Contacting local medical practices and hospitals to inquire about patient transportation options is advisable. Understanding the availability of specialized cardiology services and the ease of scheduling appointments is also crucial.

**Enhancing Healthcare Access:**

Improving healthcare access in Westfield Center requires a multi-pronged approach. Enhancing the frequency and scope of the MCT services would be a significant step forward. Promoting ride-sharing services and educating residents about available medical transportation options are also important.

Furthermore, community initiatives that support transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities can improve healthcare access. Collaborations between healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations can create innovative solutions to address the transportation challenges faced by individuals with hypertension.

**Conclusion:**

The "Hypertension Score" for 44251 highlights the importance of considering transportation when evaluating healthcare access. While Westfield Center offers a desirable quality of life, individuals with hypertension must carefully assess the logistical challenges of accessing healthcare. By understanding the drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being. For those considering moving to Westfield Center, a proactive approach to healthcare planning is essential, ensuring that their healthcare needs are met effectively. This proactive planning is crucial for a successful transition and a healthy life in Westfield Center.