44287, West Salem, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44287, West Salem, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.35 percent of residents in 44287 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 8.45 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in West Salem (ZIP Code 44287)

Considering a move to West Salem, Ohio (ZIP Code 44287)? This assessment delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, framed as a "Hypertension Score," considers the ease of **transportation** to essential medical services, acknowledging the critical role of timely care in managing this chronic condition. We'll explore the practicalities of reaching healthcare providers, evaluating drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions.

West Salem, a charming village nestled in Wayne County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, yet its relative remoteness presents unique considerations regarding **healthcare access**. This analysis aims to provide a realistic picture of the landscape, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions. Understanding these factors is vital for anyone considering **moving to West Salem**, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions like hypertension.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a numerical grade but a qualitative assessment. It considers various transportation options, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each. The goal is to equip you with the knowledge needed to proactively manage your healthcare needs within the context of West Salem's transportation infrastructure.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Primary Mode**

For residents of 44287, personal vehicles are the dominant mode of **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The village itself primarily offers limited primary care options, necessitating travel to nearby towns and cities for specialized services and comprehensive care.

The primary artery for accessing healthcare in the region is US-224, a major east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on US-224, you can reach Wooster, Ohio, the county seat, in approximately 20-25 minutes. Wooster boasts a more extensive array of medical facilities, including Wooster Community Hospital, offering a range of specialized services, including cardiology and nephrology, crucial for hypertension management.

Alternatively, heading west on US-224 leads to Ashland, Ohio, roughly a 25-30 minute drive. Ashland also provides access to healthcare, although the facilities are generally smaller than those in Wooster.

Navigating local roads, such as State Route 301, adds to the driving time, particularly during peak hours. Traffic congestion is generally moderate, but weather conditions, especially during winter, can significantly impact travel times. Snow and ice can make the roads treacherous, requiring extra caution and potentially delaying access to critical medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public **transportation** options within and around West Salem are limited. The Wayne County Transit (WCT) provides a demand-response service, offering door-to-door **transportation** within Wayne County. This service, however, requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs.

WCT operates on a scheduled basis, and the frequency of service can be a significant constraint. While WCT vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair accessibility, the limited operational hours and the need for pre-booking may pose challenges for individuals with hypertension who require frequent medical appointments or sudden care.

Relying solely on public transit for managing hypertension can be difficult. The potential for delays, the need for advance planning, and the limited service area necessitate careful consideration when evaluating healthcare **access** in West Salem.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, their availability can be variable, particularly during off-peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, are also available. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained personnel to assist with **transportation** to and from medical appointments. Brands like MedTrans and First Medical **Transportation** operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical **transportation**.

While medical **transportation** services offer a valuable option, they often come with higher costs compared to other modes of **transportation**. It is essential to investigate insurance coverage for these services, as out-of-pocket expenses can be substantial.

**Assessing the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for West Salem (44287) reflects a mixed picture. While driving offers the most direct **transportation** to healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles presents challenges for those without access to a car or who are unable to drive.

The limited public transit options and the variability of ride-sharing services add to the complexity. Medical **transportation** services provide a valuable safety net, but their cost can be a barrier.

For individuals with hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" emphasizes the importance of proactive planning. This includes establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician in Wooster or Ashland, understanding the local **transportation** landscape, and exploring all available options for reaching medical appointments.

**Recommendations for Managing Hypertension in West Salem**

For those considering **moving to West Salem** with hypertension, several recommendations can improve healthcare **access**:

* **Establish a local medical network:** Prioritize finding a primary care physician in Wooster or Ashland who can provide ongoing care and referrals to specialists.
* **Explore medical **transportation** options:** Investigate insurance coverage for medical **transportation** services and identify reliable providers.
* **Plan for emergencies:** Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest emergency room and the quickest routes.
* **Consider a support system:** Having family, friends, or neighbors who can provide **transportation** assistance can be invaluable.
* **Stay informed:** Keep abreast of changes in public transit schedules, ride-sharing availability, and local healthcare services.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

Living in West Salem offers a peaceful lifestyle, but understanding the nuances of **healthcare access** is paramount, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This "Hypertension Score" write-up highlights the importance of proactive planning, careful consideration of **transportation** options, and a commitment to building a strong support system. While challenges exist, the availability of driving, ride-sharing, and medical **transportation** services, coupled with the proximity to healthcare facilities in Wooster and Ashland, provides a framework for managing hypertension effectively. By embracing these insights, individuals considering **moving to West Salem** can confidently navigate the healthcare landscape and prioritize their well-being.