44443, New Springfield, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44443, New Springfield, Ohio is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.41 percent of residents in 44443 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.39 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44443 (New Springfield, Ohio)**

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report analyzes the accessibility of medical services for residents of ZIP code 44443 (New Springfield, Ohio), focusing on factors crucial for individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and treatment. We examine transportation options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, to determine a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical appointments. This assessment is particularly relevant for those considering moving to New Springfield, providing insight into the practicalities of maintaining their health within this community.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in 44443 is the reliance on personal vehicles. New Springfield is a relatively rural area, and public transportation options are limited. The most direct route to major healthcare facilities often involves driving. The primary highways impacting commute times are **Ohio State Route 172** and **U.S. Route 62**. Residents heading west toward Canton or east towards Alliance will likely utilize these roadways. The condition of these roads, weather conditions, and time of day significantly impact drive times.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary. The closest options, such as primary care physicians and urgent care clinics, might be accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, utilizing local roads like **Springfield Road** and **South Range Road**. However, specialized care, including cardiology, endocrinology, and nephrology (critical for hypertension management), often necessitates longer commutes. Driving to hospitals in Canton (Aultman Hospital) or Alliance (Alliance Community Hospital) could take 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the chosen route. These extended drive times pose a challenge, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing a health crisis.

Public transportation options in 44443 are sparse. The availability of bus routes, crucial for those without personal vehicles, is extremely limited. The local transit authority, if it exists, would likely offer limited services. These routes would not directly serve the healthcare facilities in Canton or Alliance. Furthermore, the availability of buses with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, such as ramps or lifts, would be a critical factor for individuals with mobility issues. The lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those unable to drive or who cannot afford ride-sharing services.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transportation. However, their availability and cost can vary significantly depending on demand and driver availability in the area. In a rural setting like 44443, the response time for ride-sharing services might be longer than in more urban areas. The cost of these services could also be a barrier for individuals with limited incomes, potentially making it difficult to attend regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services provide a crucial lifeline for individuals with significant mobility limitations or medical needs. These services, often offered by private companies or non-profit organizations, can transport patients to and from medical appointments. Brands like **CareRide** or local ambulance services might be available in the area. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive, particularly for routine appointments. The availability of medical transport is a critical factor in healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

Considering the limited public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles, the “Hypertension Score” for 44443 is moderate. The drive times to healthcare facilities are reasonable for some, but the lack of alternative transportation options presents significant challenges for others. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some solutions, but their cost and accessibility can be limiting factors.

For individuals with hypertension, regular medical appointments are essential. This includes check-ups with their primary care physician, blood pressure monitoring, and potential referrals to specialists. The ease of accessing these appointments directly impacts the effectiveness of their treatment plan. Longer commutes, limited transportation options, and the potential for high transportation costs can lead to missed appointments, delayed treatment, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

The "Hypertension Score" is also influenced by the availability of local pharmacies and the ease of medication refills. Access to medications is a crucial component of hypertension management. The proximity of pharmacies and the availability of prescription delivery services can significantly impact a patient's ability to adhere to their medication regimen. This factor, while not directly related to transportation, is an integral part of the overall healthcare access picture.

Moving to New Springfield requires careful consideration of healthcare access. Prospective residents with hypertension should thoroughly research the transportation options available and assess the potential costs associated with accessing medical care. This includes evaluating the availability of ride-sharing services, the cost of medical transport, and the potential for longer commutes to specialized care facilities.

For those considering moving to New Springfield, it is advisable to contact local healthcare providers and inquire about their patient transportation options. This proactive approach can help individuals understand the practicalities of managing their hypertension within the community. It is also important to investigate the availability of local support groups and resources for individuals with chronic conditions.

In conclusion, while 44443 offers some healthcare options, the limited public transportation and reliance on personal vehicles present challenges for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation needs when accessing medical care in this community. For those moving to New Springfield, a thorough assessment of these factors is crucial for ensuring effective hypertension management and overall well-being.