44657, Minerva, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44657, Minerva, Ohio is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.23 percent of residents in 44657 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 24.53 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Minerva, Ohio (ZIP Code 44657)

The quest for optimal health, particularly managing conditions like hypertension, demands reliable **healthcare access**. For residents of Minerva, Ohio (ZIP code 44657), this access is intricately woven with the fabric of **transportation**. This write-up delves into the complexities of navigating the healthcare landscape, providing a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering the various modes of travel available, from personal vehicles to public transit, and the specific challenges and opportunities facing individuals seeking care in this community. The information provided is designed to empower residents, especially those considering **moving to Minerva**, with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

The "Hypertension Score" isn't a numerical value; it's a qualitative assessment reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing essential healthcare services, particularly those crucial for managing hypertension. Factors considered include drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to paint a realistic picture of the **transportation** landscape and its impact on healthcare accessibility.

Minerva, nestled in Stark County, presents a unique set of **transportation** challenges. While the community boasts a certain rural charm, its location can impact the speed and efficiency of reaching medical facilities. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are State Route 183 and U.S. Route 30. Driving times to nearby hospitals and clinics are critical components of the "Hypertension Score".

**Drive Times and Road Conditions:**

For those with hypertension, timely access to medical care is paramount. The drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton, a major regional healthcare provider, via U.S. Route 30, typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise during peak hours or inclement weather. Traveling to Mercy Medical Center, also in Canton, involves a similar drive time, utilizing U.S. Route 30 and local roads.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians are available closer to Minerva, often accessible within a 10 to 20-minute drive. These local options are vital for routine check-ups and medication management, critical components of hypertension care. However, specialized services, such as cardiology or nephrology, may necessitate travel to larger facilities, impacting the overall "Hypertension Score." Road conditions are generally good, but winter weather can pose challenges, potentially increasing travel times and requiring drivers to exercise extra caution.

**Public Transit: Limited Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Minerva are limited. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides some service, but its routes and frequency are not extensive within the immediate Minerva area. Currently, there are no direct SARTA routes serving Minerva with high frequency. Individuals relying on public transit for healthcare access face significant challenges.

The closest SARTA routes might require a transfer, adding considerable travel time. This can be particularly difficult for individuals with hypertension, who may experience fatigue or other health-related limitations. The lack of readily available public **transportation** significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.

ADA accessibility on SARTA buses is a crucial consideration. All SARTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service remain significant hurdles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Canton area and may be accessible in Minerva, although availability can be variable. Relying on ride-sharing for regular healthcare appointments can be costly and unpredictable. The "Hypertension Score" is negatively impacted by the reliance on this option.

Specialized medical **transportation** services are available, catering to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance. These services, often provided by companies like MedTrans or First Transit, can offer door-to-door service, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services typically require advance booking and may be subject to higher costs. While they improve the "Hypertension Score" for those who need them, they are not a universal solution.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond **transportation**, several other factors influence the "Hypertension Score." The availability of primary care physicians accepting new patients is crucial. Access to pharmacies for medication refills is also essential. The presence of urgent care facilities in the area provides immediate medical attention when needed, impacting the overall score.

**Moving to Minerva: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For individuals considering **moving to Minerva**, understanding the **transportation** landscape is critical. Those with hypertension should carefully assess their ability to access healthcare services. This assessment should include evaluating their access to a personal vehicle, the availability of family or friends to provide rides, and the potential costs and limitations of public transit or ride-sharing.

The "Hypertension Score" for Minerva, Ohio (44657) is moderate. While local clinics offer convenient access to primary care, the limited public transit options and reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services pose challenges. Careful planning and proactive strategies are essential for managing hypertension effectively in this community.

**Recommendations:**

Individuals with hypertension residing in or considering **moving to Minerva** should:

* Establish a strong relationship with a local primary care physician.
* Explore the availability of home healthcare services for medication management and monitoring.
* Investigate the potential for carpooling or ride-sharing with neighbors or friends.
* Familiarize themselves with the SARTA routes and schedules, even if options are limited.
* Research the availability and cost of medical **transportation** services.
* Develop a contingency plan for accessing healthcare during inclement weather or unexpected emergencies.

By proactively addressing these **transportation** and healthcare access considerations, residents of Minerva can effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their overall well-being. The "Hypertension Score" is not a fixed value, but a dynamic assessment that can be improved through informed choices and proactive planning.