44667, Orrville, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44667, Orrville, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.83 percent of residents in 44667 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Orrville Hospital with a distance of 0.54 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Orrville (ZIP Code 44667)

Considering a move to Orrville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44667)? This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" – a measure of the ease with which residents can access healthcare, specifically focusing on individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular medical attention and medication. Our analysis considers transportation options, drive times, and accessibility to healthcare providers within and around Orrville. This information is crucial for prospective residents, particularly those prioritizing healthcare access.

Orrville, nestled in Wayne County, offers a blend of small-town charm and proximity to larger urban centers. Its location, however, significantly impacts healthcare accessibility. The "Hypertension Score" will reflect the realities of transportation, a critical factor in managing a chronic condition. We will explore various modes of transportation, from personal vehicles to public transit, evaluating their suitability for regular medical appointments and medication refills.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

The primary mode of transportation for most Orrville residents is the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is paramount. Orrville's main arteries include US Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare, and State Route 57, a north-south connector. These highways are essential for accessing hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.

For immediate medical needs, the University Hospitals (UH) Orrville Hospital, located within Orrville, is the closest facility. Drive times to this hospital are generally short, typically under 10 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code. This proximity is a significant advantage for residents.

Specialist care and more comprehensive services often necessitate travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities. Akron, approximately 40 miles east via US-30 and Interstate 76, houses several major hospitals, including Akron General and Summa Health System. The drive to Akron can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

Canton, about 25 miles east via US-30, offers additional healthcare options. Drive times to Canton hospitals, such as Aultman Hospital, are typically around 30 to 45 minutes. These longer drive times can be a significant consideration for individuals with hypertension, especially during inclement weather or for frequent appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Orrville are limited, presenting a challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Wayne County Transit (WCT) provides public transportation services within Wayne County. However, service frequency and route coverage are limited, and direct routes to major healthcare facilities outside Orrville may not be readily available.

WCT operates fixed-route buses and a demand-response service, which requires advance booking. While the demand-response service can provide door-to-door transportation, it may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or frequent appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a positive aspect, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited service hours and potential for delays can pose challenges for individuals managing hypertension.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Orrville, offering an alternative to public transit and personal vehicles. However, availability can vary depending on the time of day and driver availability. Ride-sharing costs can also accumulate, making it a potentially expensive option for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with healthcare needs, are another option. Companies like MedTransport and others offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, providing door-to-door transportation to medical appointments. These services often accommodate individuals with mobility limitations and offer assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options.

**Pharmacy Access and Medication Management**

Access to pharmacies for medication refills is crucial for managing hypertension. Orrville has several local pharmacies, including CVS Pharmacy and Rite Aid, providing convenient access to medications. Drive times to these pharmacies are generally short, typically under 10 minutes.

For individuals who prefer mail-order prescriptions, many healthcare providers and pharmacies offer this service. This option can be particularly beneficial for individuals with limited mobility or those who find it difficult to travel to a pharmacy regularly.

**Accessibility and the "Hypertension Score"**

The "Hypertension Score" for Orrville (ZIP Code 44667) reflects a mixed bag of accessibility. The proximity of UH Orrville Hospital is a significant advantage, ensuring quick access to emergency care and primary care services. However, the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing specialist care and larger medical centers in Akron and Canton introduces longer drive times and potential transportation challenges.

The limited public transit options and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services further impact the score. Individuals without personal vehicles may face significant difficulties accessing healthcare regularly.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Transportation Landscape**

Moving to Orrville offers a lifestyle that may appeal to many, but prospective residents, particularly those managing hypertension, must carefully consider the transportation landscape. While local access to primary care is good, the need to travel for specialist care and the limitations of public transit require careful planning.

The "Hypertension Score" for Orrville is moderate, reflecting the balance between local healthcare options and the reliance on personal vehicles for accessing more comprehensive services. Individuals with hypertension should assess their transportation needs, consider the availability of support networks, and factor in the potential costs of transportation when evaluating the suitability of Orrville as a place to live. Understanding these factors is critical for ensuring consistent healthcare access and effectively managing hypertension.