44607, Augusta, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44607, Augusta, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.00 percent of residents in 44607 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alliance Community Hospital with a distance of 15.54 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Augusta, Ohio (ZIP Code 44607)

The heart of the matter, especially for those considering a move to Augusta, Ohio (ZIP Code 44607), is the critical issue of healthcare access. This write-up examines the transportation landscape within and around this rural community, focusing on how residents can navigate the complexities of reaching medical appointments, particularly for those managing hypertension. The Hypertension Score, in this context, assesses the ease with which individuals can access necessary medical care, factoring in transportation options and potential barriers.

Living with hypertension demands consistent medical attention. Regular check-ups, medication management, and lifestyle counseling are crucial for maintaining health and preventing serious complications. The ability to reliably and conveniently reach healthcare providers is, therefore, paramount. For those contemplating a move to Augusta, understanding the transportation infrastructure is essential to ensure they can effectively manage their condition.

Augusta, nestled in Carroll County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, while offering tranquility, often translates to limited public transportation options and longer travel times to specialized medical facilities. Assessing the Hypertension Score in this area requires a deep dive into the available transportation resources.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

The primary artery for transportation in and around Augusta is **State Route 39**. This two-lane highway serves as the main thoroughfare, connecting the village to larger towns and cities. Driving to Canton, for instance, a regional hub with a wider array of healthcare providers, typically takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This journey involves navigating **State Route 183**, which intersects with Route 39, and then merging onto **U.S. Route 62** before finally reaching Canton.

Smaller roads, like **Augusta Road** and **Carrollton Road**, provide access to local businesses and residential areas. However, these roads are often narrow and winding, with limited shoulders, potentially posing challenges for drivers, especially during inclement weather. Furthermore, the lack of sidewalks and bike lanes limits alternative transportation options for those seeking to avoid driving.

The drive times to healthcare providers are crucial considerations for the Hypertension Score. The longer the commute, the greater the potential for increased stress and the risk of missing appointments. This is particularly relevant for individuals with hypertension, as stress can elevate blood pressure.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Augusta are extremely limited. Carroll County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. The absence of readily available public transit significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, especially for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to health conditions.

While the availability of public transit is limited, residents may have access to the **Carroll County Transit**. This service offers demand-response transportation, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. The ADA accessibility of the Carroll County Transit is important to consider, as it provides accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service area and potential for long wait times can present significant barriers to healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Canton area. However, their presence in Augusta is less certain. The availability of ride-sharing services depends on driver availability and demand, which can fluctuate, especially in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and potentially expensive.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including **Ambulance Services Inc.** and **CareRide**. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. The cost of these services can be a significant factor, impacting the Hypertension Score, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

**The Medical Landscape: Accessing Care**

The nearest hospitals and specialist facilities are primarily located in Canton. **Aultman Hospital** and **Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital** offer a comprehensive range of medical services, including cardiology departments and specialized care for hypertension. Reaching these facilities requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options.

Local clinics and primary care physicians in Augusta and nearby towns like Carrollton provide essential healthcare services. These facilities often offer convenient access for routine check-ups and medication management. However, for specialized care, such as cardiology consultations or advanced diagnostic testing, residents may need to travel to Canton or other regional medical centers.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score: Key Considerations**

The Hypertension Score for Augusta, Ohio, reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. The score is influenced by several factors:

* **Drive Times:** The longer the drive times to healthcare providers, the lower the score.
* **Public Transportation:** The lack of readily available public transit significantly lowers the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The uncertainty of ride-sharing services impacts the score.
* **Medical Transport Costs:** The affordability of medical transportation services is a crucial factor.
* **Proximity to Specialists:** The distance to specialized medical facilities influences the score.

**Moving to Augusta: A Proactive Approach**

For individuals with hypertension considering a move to Augusta, a proactive approach to healthcare access is essential. This includes:

* **Researching Healthcare Providers:** Identifying local primary care physicians and specialists in the Canton area.
* **Evaluating Transportation Options:** Assessing the reliability and cost of driving, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services.
* **Developing a Transportation Plan:** Creating a plan for reaching medical appointments, considering all available options.
* **Exploring Telehealth:** Utilizing telehealth services for routine check-ups and medication management, where appropriate.
* **Connecting with Local Resources:** Contacting the Carroll County Transit and other local organizations for information and assistance.

The Hypertension Score is not merely a numerical assessment; it is a reflection of the realities of healthcare access in a rural setting. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs, individuals with hypertension can improve their quality of life and successfully manage their condition while residing in Augusta. The journey to healthcare in this community requires careful navigation, but with thoughtful planning, the path to optimal health remains achievable.