44428, Kinsman, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44428, Kinsman, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

52.78 percent of residents in 44428 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.04 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 38.67 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44428 (Kinsman, Ohio)**

The heart of this analysis lies in understanding the accessibility of healthcare for residents of Kinsman, Ohio, ZIP code 44428, with a specific focus on hypertension management. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant health concern, and timely access to medical care is crucial for its effective control. This write-up examines the available transportation options, the distances involved, and the challenges faced by individuals seeking healthcare within this rural community, especially those considering moving to Kinsman.

The central question: how easily can a resident of Kinsman, Ohio, reach a healthcare provider capable of managing hypertension? This is not merely a question of distance, but one of time, cost, and convenience, considering the limitations of available transportation. We will evaluate the transportation landscape, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, to determine a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the ease of accessing necessary medical care.

**The Transportation Landscape: A Rural Reality**

Kinsman, Ohio, is a small, rural community, and its transportation infrastructure reflects this reality. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle. However, this is not always a reliable option, particularly for those who are elderly, disabled, or do not own a car. The reliance on personal vehicles significantly impacts healthcare access, as it dictates the time and cost associated with reaching medical appointments.

The major thoroughfares impacting healthcare access in the area are US Route 7, Ohio State Route 5, and Ohio State Route 88. These roads, while providing connectivity, are often subject to weather-related delays, especially during the harsh Ohio winters. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impede healthcare access, creating a significant barrier for those with chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Drive Times and Healthcare Access**

The closest major healthcare facilities are located in Warren and Youngstown, Ohio, both of which require a drive. Driving to Warren, utilizing Ohio State Route 5, can take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Youngstown, accessible via US Route 7 and then the 680, can take between 45 minutes to an hour. These drive times are significant, especially for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis or requiring frequent check-ups.

These drive times highlight a critical issue: the longer the travel time, the greater the potential for delays in receiving medical attention. This is particularly concerning for individuals with uncontrolled hypertension, as delays can lead to serious health complications. The distance also impacts the financial burden of healthcare, as it increases the cost of gas and vehicle maintenance.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Kinsman are extremely limited. Trumbull County Transit (TCT) provides some service, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the specific needs of healthcare access. TCT's services are generally demand-response, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance, and service areas are restricted. This is a major impediment for those with hypertension who may need to see a doctor on short notice.

The lack of frequent, direct routes to healthcare facilities poses a significant challenge. ADA accessibility is available on TCT vehicles, but the limited service area and scheduling requirements make it a less-than-ideal solution for many residents. Public transit, in this context, does not offer a viable alternative to the personal vehicle for most residents, and it is a significant barrier for those without access to a car.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: The Rise of Alternatives**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be questionable in a rural setting. The availability of drivers is often limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or emergencies can make these services cost-prohibitive for many residents, especially those on fixed incomes.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans and others, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and may require pre-booking. While they provide a crucial service for those with mobility limitations or other medical needs, they are not always readily available or affordable for all residents.

**The Hypertension Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

Calculating a “Hypertension Score” involves assessing several factors: drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing reliability, and the cost of transportation. The score should reflect the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare for hypertension management.

Considering the limited public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transport, the Hypertension Score for Kinsman, Ohio, is likely to be moderate to low. The score would be negatively impacted by the longer drive times to healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options, and the potential financial burden of transportation.

**Moving to Kinsman: A Healthcare Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Kinsman, Ohio, the availability of healthcare access should be a significant factor in their decision. The rural nature of the community presents challenges, particularly for those with chronic conditions like hypertension. Potential residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services before making a move.

The lack of readily available transportation options necessitates careful planning and consideration. Potential residents should explore options for personal vehicles, consider the availability of ride-sharing services, and investigate medical transport services. They should also research the availability of local healthcare providers and the services they offer.

**Conclusion: The Need for Improved Access**

The challenges of healthcare access in Kinsman, Ohio, highlight the need for improved transportation options and healthcare resources. Increasing public transit routes, improving ride-sharing availability, and expanding medical transport services could significantly improve the Hypertension Score and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Furthermore, the establishment of telehealth services and the expansion of local healthcare facilities could alleviate some of the transportation challenges. By addressing these issues, the community can ensure that residents have timely and affordable access to the healthcare they need, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This is vital for the health and well-being of the community, and it should be a priority for local leaders and healthcare providers.