44272, Rootstown, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44272, Rootstown, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.90 percent of residents in 44272 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 6.16 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rootstown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44272)

Considering a move to Rootstown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44272)? This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score," a unique metric assessing the ease of access to healthcare resources crucial for managing hypertension, a common and serious health concern. It considers the transportation landscape, which significantly impacts healthcare access. This is especially relevant for those managing chronic conditions. We delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing possibilities, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive overview of your healthcare journey in Rootstown.

Rootstown, nestled in Portage County, offers a blend of rural charm and proximity to urban centers. However, its location influences healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" considers factors like travel time to physician offices, pharmacies, and specialized medical facilities. It prioritizes timely access to care, essential for effective hypertension management. This score is not a numerical value but a descriptive assessment, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities within the local healthcare ecosystem.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Rootstown is personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating the local roadways. The most direct route to healthcare facilities usually involves Interstate 76 (I-76), a major east-west artery. This highway provides rapid transit to larger medical centers in Akron and Youngstown.

Traveling east on I-76, you can reach the Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital in approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers comprehensive cardiology services, essential for hypertension management. Westward on I-76 connects to the Youngstown area, home to several medical facilities, including Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, a drive of roughly 40-50 minutes.

Local roads like State Route 44 and State Route 18 are also crucial. State Route 44 provides access to local pharmacies and physician offices in nearby towns like Ravenna. State Route 18 connects to larger retail areas where pharmacies and medical clinics are located. However, these routes can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially increasing travel times.

The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can impact healthcare access. Snow and ice can delay travel, making it harder to reach medical appointments or pick up prescriptions. The "Hypertension Score" recognizes the importance of reliable transportation, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing urgent medical attention.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Rootstown are limited. Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides some bus services within Portage County. However, these routes are not extensive and may not directly serve all healthcare facilities.

PARTA Route 7, for example, connects Ravenna with Kent, potentially offering a connection to healthcare services. However, the frequency of these routes is limited, and travel times can be significantly longer than driving. ADA-accessible buses are available, providing transportation for individuals with disabilities.

The "Hypertension Score" acknowledges the challenges posed by limited public transit. Relying on public transportation for regular medical appointments can be time-consuming and inconvenient, particularly for individuals with hypertension who may require frequent check-ups and medication refills.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Rootstown area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Ride-sharing can be a convenient option for occasional appointments or emergencies.

Medical transport services are also available for individuals who require assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services, such as MedExpress or First Transit, provide specialized transportation for patients with mobility limitations or other medical needs. They often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the role of ride-sharing and medical transport services in improving healthcare access. While these options can be helpful, they often come with additional costs and may require advance booking, potentially impacting access to urgent care.

**Pharmacies and Healthcare Providers: Local Resources**

Access to pharmacies and healthcare providers is crucial for managing hypertension. Rootstown itself has limited healthcare facilities, but several pharmacies and physician offices are located in nearby towns.

CVS Pharmacy and Rite Aid are located in Ravenna, a short drive from Rootstown. These pharmacies offer prescription filling services, medication counseling, and other healthcare products. Several family medicine practices and internal medicine specialists are also located in Ravenna, providing primary care services.

For specialized care, residents often travel to Akron or Youngstown. These cities offer a wider range of specialists, including cardiologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists, essential for managing hypertension and its associated complications.

The "Hypertension Score" considers the proximity and accessibility of these local resources. While Rootstown offers convenient access to basic healthcare services, specialized care often requires longer travel times.

**The "Hypertension Score" Summary**

The "Hypertension Score" for Rootstown, Ohio (ZIP Code 44272) reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from proximity to major highways like I-76, offering relatively quick access to larger medical centers, reliance on personal vehicles is high. Public transit is limited, and ride-sharing availability may vary.

The score emphasizes the importance of personal transportation and the potential challenges for individuals without access to a vehicle. While local pharmacies and primary care providers are accessible, specialized care often requires travel. The score highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options when managing hypertension in Rootstown.

For those considering moving to Rootstown, the "Hypertension Score" encourages proactive planning. It suggests researching the locations of healthcare providers and pharmacies, assessing the availability of transportation options, and considering the potential impact of weather conditions on travel. This comprehensive approach will help ensure effective healthcare access and successful management of hypertension.