44425, Hubbard, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44425, Hubbard, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.09 percent of residents in 44425 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 22.35 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44425**

The quest for optimal health often hinges on something seemingly mundane: the journey to receive care. In Hubbard, Ohio, ZIP code 44425, this journey, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, demands meticulous consideration. This write-up assesses the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which residents can access vital healthcare services, offering a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the challenges and opportunities presented by the local infrastructure. This score will inform those considering moving to Hubbard, Ohio, and help them understand their healthcare access.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Each facet influences the ease and efficiency of reaching healthcare providers, impacting the ability to maintain consistent medical appointments and medication adherence, critical for hypertension management.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. In Hubbard, the primary arteries facilitating healthcare access are Interstate 80 (I-80) and State Route 62 (SR-62). The time required to reach healthcare facilities significantly impacts the Hypertension Score. Longer drive times increase stress and potential delays, especially during emergency situations.

The nearest major medical centers, such as Trumbull Regional Medical Center in Warren, are accessible via I-80. A typical drive to Trumbull Regional, assuming moderate traffic, takes approximately 20-30 minutes. This drive time is generally manageable, contributing positively to the score. However, traffic congestion during peak hours can significantly extend this timeframe, potentially impacting individuals with hypertension.

Smaller clinics and physician offices within Hubbard itself, often located along SR-62 and Liberty Street, offer quicker access, typically within a 5-10 minute drive. This local accessibility is a significant advantage, bolstering the score by minimizing travel-related stress and promoting timely care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The availability and efficiency of public transit are crucial, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. In Hubbard, the Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides public transportation services.

WRTA Route 71, the Hubbard/Youngstown route, is the most relevant option. While this route offers a connection to Youngstown and access to additional medical facilities, its frequency and travel times must be considered. The route operates on a limited schedule, with buses running at intervals, potentially requiring extended wait times.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. WRTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations to ensure inclusivity. However, the overall reliance on public transit for healthcare access in Hubbard presents a challenge. The limited route options and potential for longer travel times can negatively impact the Hypertension Score, especially for those requiring frequent appointments or experiencing mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer on-demand transportation options. Their availability in Hubbard can significantly improve healthcare access. The ability to summon a ride quickly, particularly for urgent care or when public transit is unavailable, is a definite plus.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, potentially affecting their ability to access care regularly. The reliability of these services, particularly during inclement weather or off-peak hours, is also a consideration.

Medical transport services, specializing in transporting individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs, offer another layer of support. These services, such as Medstar Ambulance, provide door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with medical equipment and personal care. This specialized service can be invaluable for individuals with hypertension who have difficulty traveling independently.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 44425 reflects a nuanced assessment of the transportation landscape, acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses.

The score is influenced by the relatively manageable drive times to larger medical centers via I-80 and the convenient access to local clinics and physician offices. However, the limited public transit options and the potential cost and reliability concerns associated with ride-sharing services present challenges.

The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net for those with specific needs. The overall score, therefore, is moderately positive.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate, with potential delays during peak traffic.
* **Public Transit:** Limited, with potential for longer travel times and limited frequency.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Available, but with cost and reliability considerations.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, providing crucial support for specific needs.
* **Accessibility:** ADA compliant WRTA buses.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Enhancing the Hypertension Score requires strategic interventions. Improving public transit frequency and route coverage, particularly connecting to key medical facilities, would significantly benefit residents.

Promoting awareness of available ride-sharing services and medical transport options, including potential financial assistance programs, is crucial.

Additionally, encouraging the establishment of more healthcare facilities within Hubbard, particularly those specializing in cardiology and hypertension management, would reduce drive times and enhance local access.

**Conclusion: A Community of Care**

The Hypertension Score for ZIP code 44425 reflects a community striving to balance accessibility with the realities of transportation infrastructure. While challenges exist, the presence of accessible local clinics, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options provides a foundation for healthcare access. For individuals considering moving to Hubbard, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential. By proactively addressing the identified shortcomings and embracing opportunities for improvement, Hubbard can strengthen its commitment to the health and well-being of its residents, fostering a community where access to care is a readily available reality, crucial for the management of hypertension.