44614, Canal Fulton, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44614, Canal Fulton, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.55 percent of residents in 44614 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alliance Community Hospital with a distance of 23.98 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Canal Fulton (ZIP Code 44614)

Considering a move to Canal Fulton, Ohio (ZIP Code 44614)? Beyond the charming small-town atmosphere, it’s essential to evaluate your healthcare access, especially if you manage hypertension. This write-up provides a "Hypertension Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to facilitate your healthcare journey. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a clear picture of how easily you can access vital medical care. This analysis will help you understand the practicalities of managing your health within the context of your commute to healthcare.

The "Hypertension Score" is a subjective assessment, not a formal medical evaluation. It considers the ease and efficiency of transportation to healthcare providers specializing in hypertension management, such as cardiologists and primary care physicians. Factors like drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of alternative transportation options are all weighed. A higher score indicates better access.

**Driving the Healthcare Landscape:**

Canal Fulton's geographic location influences healthcare access. The town is situated in Stark County, offering a mix of rural and suburban environments. Driving remains a primary transportation mode. The major thoroughfare is **Ohio Route 21**, which runs north-south, connecting Canal Fulton to larger communities like Massillon to the south and Akron to the north. Drive times are a critical component of our score.

Driving to a cardiologist in Massillon, a common destination for specialized care, typically takes 15-20 minutes via Ohio Route 21. Traffic is usually light, but rush hour can extend this. For primary care physicians within Canal Fulton, the drive is often less than 10 minutes, a significant advantage. Akron, a larger city with more extensive medical facilities, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic on **Interstate 77** and Ohio Route 21. Consider these drive times when planning appointments and factoring in potential delays.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Canal Fulton are limited. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus services. However, routes are infrequent, and service areas are often restricted. While SARTA may offer routes that touch upon Canal Fulton, direct routes to major medical centers are unlikely. Furthermore, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is crucial. SARTA buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, making them a potentially viable option for those with mobility challenges.

Public transit’s limitations significantly impact our Hypertension Score. Reliance on public transit for frequent medical appointments, especially for those with mobility issues, can be challenging. The lack of direct routes and the potential for lengthy travel times can add significant stress, which is detrimental to managing hypertension.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Canal Fulton, but their availability and reliability can fluctuate. During peak hours or in inclement weather, wait times can increase. Ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the cost can be a factor, and the availability of drivers, especially for early morning or late evening appointments, is not guaranteed.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution. Companies like **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services cater specifically to individuals needing transportation to medical appointments, providing wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. While these services offer a more reliable option, they often require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing.

**Hypertension Score Assessment:**

Considering the transportation options, the "Hypertension Score" for Canal Fulton (ZIP Code 44614) is moderately favorable. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. However, the proximity to primary care physicians and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provide some flexibility.

The score is influenced by several factors. The relatively short drive times to Massillon for cardiology appointments are a plus. The presence of ride-sharing and medical transportation options provides alternatives for those who cannot drive. However, the lack of robust public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing during certain times negatively impact the score.

**Improving Healthcare Access:**

Several strategies can enhance healthcare access for individuals with hypertension in Canal Fulton. Exploring telemedicine options can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. Establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician within Canal Fulton is crucial for ongoing management. Utilizing ride-sharing services and medical transportation when necessary, and planning appointments strategically to avoid peak traffic times, can also improve the overall experience.

**Moving to Canal Fulton: A Balanced Perspective:**

Moving to Canal Fulton offers a desirable lifestyle with its small-town charm and community feel. However, for individuals managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. While the transportation landscape presents some challenges, the availability of various options, including driving, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides a reasonable level of healthcare access. By carefully considering the transportation factors outlined in this "Hypertension Score" assessment, you can make an informed decision about whether Canal Fulton is the right fit for your healthcare needs.