44618, Dalton, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44618, Dalton, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.50 percent of residents in 44618 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Orrville Hospital with a distance of 5.02 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Dalton, Ohio (ZIP Code 44618)

The quest for effective healthcare, especially for conditions like hypertension, hinges on more than just the quality of medical professionals. It demands seamless **transportation** access, a critical factor influencing patient adherence to treatment plans and overall well-being. This write-up explores the **healthcare access** landscape within ZIP Code 44618 (Dalton, Ohio), focusing on the challenges and opportunities faced by residents managing hypertension, particularly those considering **moving to Dalton**.

Dalton, nestled in Wayne County, offers a blend of rural charm and proximity to larger urban centers. Its location, while providing a peaceful atmosphere, presents unique considerations when evaluating **healthcare access**, specifically regarding **transportation** options for those managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" for this area considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing/medical **transportation** services, painting a picture of the ease or difficulty in reaching essential medical appointments and pharmacies.

Driving remains the dominant mode of **transportation** in Dalton. Primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities include State Route 21, a north-south thoroughfare connecting Dalton to larger towns and cities. Interstate 77, a major north-south highway, provides a faster route to Cleveland and Canton, offering access to specialized medical centers. Secondary roads like Lincoln Way (State Route 250) and Smithville-Western Road (County Road 10) provide crucial links to local clinics and pharmacies.

For residents with hypertension, timely access to medication refills, regular check-ups, and potential emergency care is paramount. The drive time to the nearest pharmacy or primary care physician’s office is a significant factor. While Dalton itself boasts local pharmacies and physician practices, specialized care may necessitate travel. A 15-20 minute drive could be expected to reach Wooster, Ohio, for more extensive medical services. The distance to Canton or Akron, offering tertiary care facilities, could extend the drive time to approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Public transit options in the area are limited. The Wayne County Transit (WCT) offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their rides in advance. This service operates within Wayne County, potentially providing **transportation** to medical appointments. However, the availability of WCT is subject to scheduling constraints, and the service may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. WCT vehicles are equipped with ADA features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The reliance on demand-response transit can be a significant hurdle for individuals managing hypertension. The need for advance planning, potential wait times, and limited service hours can create barriers to accessing timely medical care. This highlights the importance of personal vehicles or alternative **transportation** solutions.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering another **transportation** option. However, their availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a concern, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services is another factor to consider, as delays or unavailability can disrupt treatment plans.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, also exist. These services often cater to patients requiring non-emergency medical **transportation** to and from appointments. Companies like MedRide or CareRide provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are usually required. These services often require advanced booking, which might not be suitable for urgent needs.

The availability of pharmacies is also crucial. Dalton itself has local pharmacies, providing convenient access to medication refills and pharmacist consultations. However, the presence of 24-hour pharmacies in the immediate vicinity may be limited. This necessitates careful planning for medication refills and potential emergencies.

Assessing the “Hypertension Score” for Dalton, Ohio (44618) requires a multi-faceted approach. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average drive time to the nearest pharmacy, primary care physician, and specialized medical facilities (e.g., cardiology, endocrinology).
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility features (ADA compliance) of public **transportation** options.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The presence, reliability, and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Services:** The availability and cost of specialized medical **transportation** services.
* **Pharmacy Access:** The number of pharmacies in the area, their operating hours, and availability of 24-hour services.

Based on these factors, the “Hypertension Score” for Dalton, Ohio (44618) would likely be moderate. While the area offers local healthcare providers and pharmacies, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges for some residents, especially those with mobility limitations or without access to a car. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provides alternative options, but their cost and availability can be limiting.

For individuals considering **moving to Dalton** and managing hypertension, careful planning is essential. Assessing the proximity of healthcare providers, pharmacies, and **transportation** options is crucial. The ability to drive or have access to a reliable form of **transportation** is a significant advantage. Exploring the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services is also recommended.

Furthermore, individuals should discuss their **transportation** needs with their healthcare providers. Healthcare providers can offer valuable insights into local resources and support services. They can also assist in coordinating medical appointments and medication refills to minimize the burden of **transportation**.

In conclusion, while Dalton, Ohio (44618) offers a pleasant living environment, the **healthcare access** landscape presents specific considerations for individuals managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the need for careful planning, reliance on personal vehicles, and the importance of exploring alternative **transportation** options. Understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring timely access to essential medical care and supporting the overall well-being of residents.