44420, Girard, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44420, Girard, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.63 percent of residents in 44420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital with a distance of 3.86 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Girard, Ohio (ZIP Code 44420)

Girard, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Trumbull County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking healthcare, especially those managing hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access within the 44420 ZIP code. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Girard or for current residents striving to maintain their well-being. The goal is to paint a vibrant picture of the realities of healthcare access, emphasizing the nuances of transportation.

The cornerstone of our assessment is the ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably. This is especially critical for individuals with hypertension, where consistent medication adherence and regular check-ups are paramount. The "Hypertension Score" considers factors like drive times, public transportation availability, and alternative options, all of which influence a patient's ability to manage their condition effectively.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary roadways in and around Girard, Ohio, dictate the ease with which residents can access healthcare facilities. State Route 193 (Liberty Street) serves as a central thoroughfare, connecting Girard with neighboring communities. The drive to major healthcare providers often involves navigating this route.

Accessing the nearest major hospital, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, located in Youngstown, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes, primarily via Interstate 80 (I-80) and then onto Belmont Avenue. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact this commute. The I-80 corridor, while efficient, can experience congestion, adding valuable minutes to the journey, which can be a concern for those needing immediate medical attention.

Other healthcare facilities, such as primary care physicians' offices and specialized clinics, are scattered throughout the surrounding area. The drive times to these locations vary depending on their proximity to Girard and the specific route taken. State Route 422 offers another critical route, especially for accessing services located further west. Careful consideration of these drive times is crucial for managing hypertension effectively.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the Network**

Public transportation options in Girard are primarily provided by the Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA). The WRTA offers bus routes that serve the area, but their coverage within Girard itself may be limited. The primary routes relevant to healthcare access are those that connect Girard to Youngstown, where many specialized medical services are concentrated.

The specific route numbers and schedules should be carefully investigated. Unfortunately, detailed information on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features for each route is not readily available. However, the WRTA generally strives to provide accessible services. Individuals with mobility limitations should contact the WRTA directly to confirm the availability of accessible buses and the specifics of their routes.

Public transportation, while offering a valuable alternative, can present challenges for individuals with hypertension. The time spent waiting for buses, the potential for multiple transfers, and the overall travel time can add significant stress and inconvenience, particularly during inclement weather or when feeling unwell.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, especially for those who do not drive or prefer not to. The availability of these services in Girard can vary depending on demand and driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can also fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or periods of high demand.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another option. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assisting with mobility challenges. However, the availability and cost of medical transportation services in Girard should be thoroughly researched.

**Healthcare Access and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for Girard, Ohio (44420) reflects the combined impact of these transportation options on healthcare access. The score considers drive times, public transportation reliability, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

A high "Hypertension Score" indicates favorable conditions for healthcare access, with short drive times, reliable public transportation, and readily available alternative transportation options. A low score suggests challenges, such as long drive times, limited public transportation, and a lack of alternative options.

For residents of Girard, understanding their "Hypertension Score" is critical for proactive health management. It allows them to assess their ability to access healthcare and to make informed decisions about their transportation needs.

**Moving to Girard: A Consideration for Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to Girard, Ohio, the "Hypertension Score" should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services in the area.

Individuals with hypertension should consider the drive times to their preferred healthcare providers, the reliability of public transportation, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services. They should also factor in the potential for traffic congestion and the impact of weather conditions on transportation.

Moving to Girard requires a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access. The "Hypertension Score" provides a valuable framework for evaluating the transportation landscape and making informed decisions.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The "Hypertension Score" for Girard, Ohio (44420) highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. Residents and prospective residents should proactively assess their transportation needs and explore all available options.

Healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government agencies can play a vital role in improving healthcare access by advocating for improved public transportation, promoting ride-sharing services, and supporting medical transportation initiatives.

By understanding the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, residents of Girard can take proactive steps to manage their health effectively and enjoy a higher quality of life. The journey to healthcare should be as smooth and stress-free as possible, especially for those managing hypertension.