44275, Spencer, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44275, Spencer, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.10 percent of residents in 44275 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 6.09 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Spencer, Ohio (ZIP Code 44275)

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, requires careful evaluation. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 44275 (Spencer, Ohio), provides a "Hypertension Score" to assess the ease of accessing necessary medical care, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. This score considers various transportation options, crucial for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency situations. The goal is to provide a realistic picture for those considering moving to Spencer, offering insights into the practicalities of healthcare access in this rural community.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment. It weighs the availability and efficiency of different transportation methods, recognizing the importance of timely and reliable access to healthcare. The score considers the potential impact of transportation challenges on an individual's ability to manage their condition effectively. Factors like distance, traffic, public transportation limitations, and the availability of alternative options all play a role in determining the overall score.

**Driving the Landscape: Roadways and Drive Times**

For residents of Spencer, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access is by car. The town's location in Medina County means reliance on roadways for reaching medical facilities. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating the local roads.

Traveling east on **State Route 301** provides access to Grafton, approximately a 15-20 minute drive, where some primary care physicians and urgent care facilities are available. Heading south on **State Route 301** and then east on **U.S. Route 224** leads to Lodi, a 20-25 minute drive, offering a wider range of healthcare services, including specialists.

For more specialized care, the drive times increase. Heading east on **U.S. Route 224** to **Interstate 71** and then north to Cleveland (approximately an hour's drive) or south to Ashland (also about an hour's drive) opens up access to major hospitals and medical centers. The availability of specialized care is thus contingent on the ability to undertake longer journeys.

Traffic, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. While Spencer experiences relatively low traffic volume compared to urban areas, delays can occur on **State Route 301** and **U.S. Route 224**, particularly near intersections. This necessitates careful planning for appointments and the inclusion of buffer time to avoid potential complications.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in Spencer are extremely limited. Medina County does offer a public transit system, the **Medina County Transit (MCT)**. However, the service primarily caters to seniors and individuals with disabilities, with limited routes and schedules.

The MCT provides curb-to-curb service, requiring advance booking, which can be a significant barrier for spontaneous healthcare needs. While the service is designed to be ADA-accessible, its limited operational hours and geographical coverage restrict its usefulness for many residents, especially those without pre-arranged appointments. The availability of public transportation does not greatly enhance the overall "Hypertension Score" for Spencer.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Spencer area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, their operational coverage in rural areas is not as robust as in urban centers. Waiting times can be longer, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase costs.

Medical transportation services, such as **Care Ride** and **LogistiCare**, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, eligibility requirements and the need for prior authorization can present hurdles. These services are useful, but their limited scope and reliance on pre-arranged bookings make them less ideal for immediate healthcare needs.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Factor**

Healthcare access is a crucial element in managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and timely access to medical attention are vital for controlling blood pressure and preventing complications. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the challenges faced by Spencer residents in accessing these essential services.

For individuals with hypertension, the reliance on personal vehicles or the limited availability of alternative transportation options can pose significant challenges. The drive times to medical facilities, the potential for traffic delays, and the limited public transportation options necessitate careful planning and consideration.

**Moving to Spencer: A Balanced Perspective**

Considering a move to Spencer requires a balanced perspective. The town offers a rural lifestyle and a close-knit community. However, prospective residents must carefully evaluate the impact of limited transportation options on their healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" is not intended to discourage anyone from moving to Spencer. Instead, it aims to provide a realistic assessment of the challenges and opportunities. Individuals managing hypertension should carefully assess their ability to manage their condition effectively, considering the transportation constraints.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

The "Hypertension Score" for Spencer, Ohio (ZIP code 44275) reflects the realities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

Careful planning, awareness of potential delays, and consideration of alternative transportation options are crucial for ensuring timely and reliable access to healthcare. The decision to move to Spencer should be made with a clear understanding of these transportation limitations and their potential impact on the ability to effectively manage hypertension.