44285, Wayland, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44285, Wayland, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.00 percent of residents in 44285 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 9.18 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wayland, OH (ZIP Code 44285)

Wayland, Ohio, nestled within Portage County (ZIP Code 44285), presents a unique landscape for those managing hypertension. Assessing the ease of **healthcare access** here necessitates a deep dive into the available **transportation** options, as efficient movement is crucial for consistent medical care. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" write-up, considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering **moving to Wayland**.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the geographical context. Wayland is a small, rural community, placing a premium on personal vehicle ownership. The nearest major medical facilities, including hospitals and specialized clinics, are located in neighboring cities like Ravenna and Streetsboro. These distances, coupled with the potential for adverse weather conditions, significantly impact the ability to receive timely treatment, a critical consideration for individuals with hypertension.

Driving is the primary mode of **transportation** for most Wayland residents. The most direct route to Ravenna, where University Hospitals Portage Medical Center is located, involves traveling north on State Route 14. This journey typically takes around 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during peak hours or inclement weather, this drive time can easily extend, potentially delaying access to crucial medical appointments or emergency care.

Another viable option is to head west on State Route 14 to Interstate 76. Taking I-76 east will lead to hospitals in Akron, approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic. This route offers a faster, more direct path to more extensive medical services. However, it also introduces the complexities of highway driving, which can be stressful for some, especially those with health concerns.

Further complicating the situation, the availability of public **transportation** is limited in Wayland. Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides some service within Portage County. However, the routes serving Wayland are infrequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. Route 11, for example, travels along State Route 14, potentially offering a connection to Ravenna.

However, the frequency of these routes is not ideal for regular medical appointments, and the reliance on fixed schedules may be problematic for those with unpredictable health needs. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles, while mandated, should be verified with PARTA directly to ensure suitability for individual needs. The lack of convenient public transit significantly impacts the **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative **transportation** solution. However, their availability in Wayland is not guaranteed. While these services operate in the broader Portage County area, their presence in Wayland itself may be limited, and surge pricing during peak demand could make them cost-prohibitive for regular medical appointments. The reliability of ride-sharing services should be carefully considered, especially for those with urgent medical needs.

Medical **transportation** services are also available, catering specifically to patients with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance. Companies like MedRide and First Response Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical transport, offering door-to-door service and assistance with mobility aids. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or utilize public transit, ensuring they can access necessary medical care. However, these services often require pre-booking and may be subject to availability and insurance coverage.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Wayland is further influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers. While the community may have primary care physicians and some specialized services, the range of options is likely limited compared to larger urban areas. This necessitates travel to neighboring cities for specialist appointments, diagnostic testing, and hospitalizations, further emphasizing the importance of reliable **transportation**.

For individuals considering **moving to Wayland** with hypertension, the **transportation** challenges are significant. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing services all contribute to a potentially stressful environment. The lack of readily available medical services within Wayland itself underscores the need for careful planning and consideration of **healthcare access** options.

The "Hypertension Score" for Wayland, therefore, would be influenced by these factors. A lower score would indicate greater challenges in accessing timely and convenient medical care, highlighting the need for proactive planning. This includes establishing a reliable **transportation** plan, identifying accessible medical facilities, and understanding the limitations of the available services.

When assessing the suitability of Wayland for individuals with hypertension, several key considerations should be prioritized. First, the availability of a reliable personal vehicle is crucial. Second, pre-planning for medical appointments, including arranging **transportation** well in advance, is essential. Third, understanding the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services is critical. Finally, researching the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services is paramount.

For those considering **moving to Wayland**, a thorough assessment of their **transportation** needs and **healthcare access** requirements is vital. This should include a realistic evaluation of their ability to drive, the availability of support from family or friends, and the potential cost of utilizing ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services. The "Hypertension Score" should be viewed as a dynamic assessment, subject to change based on individual circumstances and the evolving landscape of **transportation** and healthcare resources.

In conclusion, while Wayland offers the charm of a rural community, its geographical location and limited **transportation** options present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. A proactive approach to planning, a thorough understanding of the available resources, and a realistic assessment of individual needs are essential for ensuring optimal **healthcare access** and a healthy lifestyle. The "Hypertension Score" should serve as a guide, prompting careful consideration of the complexities of **transportation** and healthcare before making the decision to **move to Wayland**.