44654, Millersburg, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44654, Millersburg, Ohio is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.77 percent of residents in 44654 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 3.42 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Millersburg, OH (ZIP Code 44654)

Millersburg, Ohio, nestled amidst the rolling hills of Amish Country, offers a tranquil lifestyle, yet the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for managing conditions like hypertension, requires careful consideration. This analysis provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 44654, evaluating transportation options and healthcare access points crucial for effective blood pressure management. For those contemplating moving to Millersburg, this score serves as a vital tool in understanding the realities of healthcare navigation.

The "Hypertension Score" considers factors impacting a patient's ability to receive timely and consistent medical care. These include drive times to healthcare facilities, public transportation availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to assess the ease with which individuals with hypertension can attend appointments, pick up medications, and access emergency care, ultimately impacting their ability to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

**Driving the Landscape: Navigating Roads and Highways**

The primary mode of transportation in Millersburg is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode is significantly influenced by road conditions and distance. For residents of 44654, the closest healthcare facilities are concentrated in Millersburg itself and the surrounding towns. The drive to the *Wooster Community Hospital* in Wooster, a regional healthcare hub, involves navigating the winding roads and highways.

Traveling to Wooster necessitates traversing **State Route 241**, a key artery connecting Millersburg to the north. This route can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially delaying appointments. The journey then merges onto **U.S. Route 62**, a major thoroughfare, offering a faster route to Wooster. The total drive time to Wooster Community Hospital can range from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Closer to home, the *Holmes County Health Department* in Millersburg offers primary care services and is easily accessible. The drive is typically less than 10 minutes, making it a convenient option for routine check-ups and medication refills. This proximity significantly improves the "Hypertension Score" for residents seeking accessible and prompt care.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Millersburg and Holmes County is limited. The *Holmes County Public Transit* offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service operates within Holmes County and offers limited service to neighboring counties. While it provides a vital lifeline for those without personal vehicles, its accessibility for hypertension management presents some challenges.

The scheduling requirement necessitates planning, potentially hindering spontaneous visits to the pharmacy or urgent care. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, and the transit system does provide such vehicles. However, the limited operating hours and potential delays due to scheduling can impact the "Hypertension Score," especially for those requiring frequent medical attention.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Millersburg area, although their availability may be less consistent compared to larger metropolitan areas. The presence of ride-sharing offers an alternative for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the potential for surge pricing during peak hours or limited driver availability in a rural area needs consideration.

Specialized medical transport services are available for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly valuable for those with mobility issues or other health conditions that make driving difficult. The availability of such services enhances the "Hypertension Score" by providing a reliable means of accessing healthcare.

**Healthcare Access Points: A Critical Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" is also influenced by the availability and accessibility of healthcare facilities within and around Millersburg. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and emergency services is crucial for effective hypertension management.

The *Holmes County Health Department* provides primary care services, offering a convenient option for routine check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, and medication management. The *Millersburg Family Practice* is another local option, providing comprehensive family medicine services.

Pharmacies, such as *Rite Aid* and *Walgreens*, are readily accessible in Millersburg, ensuring convenient access to prescribed medications. These pharmacies also offer blood pressure monitoring services, providing an additional layer of support for individuals managing hypertension.

The proximity of emergency services is also a critical factor. The *Holmes County Emergency Medical Services* (EMS) provides emergency medical care, and the *Wooster Community Hospital* offers a full-service emergency department. The ability to quickly access emergency care is paramount for individuals experiencing hypertensive crises or other cardiovascular emergencies.

**The "Hypertension Score" Summary**

The "Hypertension Score" for residents of ZIP code 44654 reflects a mixed picture. The availability of personal vehicles and the proximity of local healthcare providers, including the *Holmes County Health Department* and local pharmacies, contribute positively to the score. However, the limitations of public transportation, the potential variability of ride-sharing services, and the drive time to specialized care in Wooster, impact the overall score.

For individuals moving to Millersburg with hypertension, the "Hypertension Score" suggests careful planning is necessary. Establishing a relationship with a local primary care physician, utilizing the convenience of local pharmacies, and considering the availability of medical transport services are crucial steps in ensuring consistent healthcare access.

The "Hypertension Score" for Millersburg, while not perfect, is manageable. The community's commitment to providing healthcare access, coupled with the availability of various transportation options, offers a reasonable foundation for managing hypertension. Prospective residents, especially those with pre-existing conditions, should assess their individual needs and preferences when considering moving to Millersburg. This score is a dynamic measure, and the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in the area will continue to shape the experience of those living with hypertension. Ultimately, the ability to navigate the transportation and healthcare landscape effectively is key to maintaining optimal health and well-being in Millersburg, Ohio.