44659, Mount Eaton, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44659, Mount Eaton, Ohio is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.14 percent of residents in 44659 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.20 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Orrville Hospital with a distance of 10.01 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Mount Eaton (ZIP Code 44659)

The heart of a community beats strongest when its residents have ready access to healthcare. In Mount Eaton, Ohio, ZIP code 44659, the ability to reach medical facilities is a critical factor influencing residents' health, particularly concerning a condition like hypertension, often called high blood pressure. This write-up explores the landscape of healthcare access, considering the available transportation options and their impact on the "Hypertension Score" for those living or considering moving to Mount Eaton.

The Hypertension Score, in this context, is not a clinical measurement but a composite assessment of the ease with which residents can obtain necessary medical care, including routine checkups, medication refills, and emergency services. It considers the time, cost, and convenience associated with transportation to and from healthcare providers. A higher score reflects better access and, consequently, a potentially lower risk of uncontrolled hypertension.

For residents of Mount Eaton, the primary mode of transportation is personal vehicles. The town's rural setting necessitates reliance on cars for most errands, including medical appointments. The major arteries connecting Mount Eaton to healthcare facilities are State Route 250, running east-west, and State Route 241, traveling north-south. These highways, while generally well-maintained, can experience traffic delays during peak hours, potentially impacting the timely arrival at appointments.

Driving to the nearest hospitals and clinics requires careful planning. Wooster Community Hospital, a regional healthcare provider, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive from Mount Eaton, primarily via State Route 250. This drive time can fluctuate depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the specific location within Mount Eaton. The drive offers scenic views of the rolling hills of Amish Country, but the journey's length and potential for delays must be considered.

Another option is Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, a larger facility with specialized services. This drive, however, is considerably longer, taking approximately 45-60 minutes, primarily using State Route 250 and Interstate 77. This longer commute significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical attention. The extended travel time can make it more challenging to adhere to treatment plans and attend follow-up appointments.

Public transportation options are limited in Mount Eaton. The area lacks a comprehensive public transit system, which poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. While some limited services may be available through county-based programs, they often require advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. This absence of readily available public transportation significantly lowers the Hypertension Score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence in Mount Eaton is less consistent than in more urban areas. Availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and may be subject to surge pricing, adding to the financial burden of healthcare access. This uncertainty further contributes to a lower Hypertension Score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the area, providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT). These services often cater to individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance during travel. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and availability may be limited, especially for short-notice appointments. The reliance on these services, while beneficial for some, can still negatively impact the Hypertension Score due to cost and potential scheduling difficulties.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of available transportation options is another critical consideration. Public transit, if available, must adhere to ADA guidelines, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Ride-sharing services and medical transport providers are also expected to offer accessible vehicles upon request. However, the availability and reliability of these accessible options can vary, impacting the Hypertension Score for individuals with disabilities.

For those considering moving to Mount Eaton, the transportation landscape must be a central consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges with ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower Hypertension Score. This means that residents may face greater difficulties in accessing timely and convenient healthcare, potentially impacting their ability to manage chronic conditions like hypertension.

The financial implications of transportation are also significant. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and potential parking fees can add to the overall expense of healthcare. For individuals with limited incomes, these costs can create a barrier to accessing necessary medical care, further lowering the Hypertension Score.

The physical and mental toll of long commutes can also impact health outcomes. The stress of navigating traffic, the time spent traveling, and the potential for delays can contribute to elevated blood pressure and other health problems. This further underscores the importance of considering the transportation infrastructure when assessing healthcare access in Mount Eaton.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for residents of Mount Eaton, Ohio (ZIP code 44659), is significantly influenced by the available transportation options. While personal vehicles provide the primary mode of transport, the limited public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost and availability of medical transport services all present challenges. For individuals with hypertension or those considering moving to Mount Eaton, a careful assessment of these transportation factors is crucial. Improving healthcare access in this community requires addressing these challenges, potentially through expanding public transit options, promoting ride-sharing services, or subsidizing medical transportation for those in need. This will ultimately contribute to a healthier community and a higher Hypertension Score for all residents.