44675, Sherrodsville, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44675, Sherrodsville, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.94 percent of residents in 44675 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 Aultman Hospital with a distance of 21.24 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sherrodsville (44675)

The quaint village of Sherrodsville, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Carroll County (ZIP Code 44675), offers a tranquil lifestyle. Yet, for residents managing hypertension, the reality of accessing timely healthcare can be a significant challenge. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for 44675, considering the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, offering insights for both current residents and those considering moving to Sherrodsville.

The Hypertension Score, in this context, is a qualitative assessment reflecting the ease with which individuals diagnosed with hypertension can obtain necessary medical care within a reasonable timeframe. This includes routine checkups, medication refills, specialist appointments, and access to emergency services. The score will consider the available transportation options, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the potential barriers encountered by those with limited mobility or financial constraints.

Sherrodsville's rural setting presents the primary hurdle: distance. The closest primary care physicians and pharmacies are primarily located in Carrollton, approximately 15 miles away. This journey, while seemingly manageable, is heavily reliant on personal vehicles. The primary route involves navigating **State Route 39** east, a winding two-lane road. Alternatively, residents might use **State Route 212** to connect with **State Route 43** south, leading to Carrollton.

Drive times, under ideal conditions, typically range from 20 to 30 minutes to reach Carrollton. However, weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can significantly extend travel times. Snow and ice can transform these rural roads into treacherous passages, potentially delaying or even preventing access to critical medical care. These delays pose a heightened risk for individuals with hypertension, who require consistent medication and monitoring.

Public transportation options in Sherrodsville are severely limited. Carroll County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The absence of buses or trains drastically restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. This lack of public transportation significantly lowers the Hypertension Score, creating a barrier to regular medical appointments and medication refills.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are generally unavailable in this rural area. The sparse population density and limited demand make it economically unviable for these companies to operate. This absence further compounds the transportation challenges, especially for those who cannot drive or lack access to a vehicle. This severely limits healthcare access.

Medical transport services are a crucial lifeline for some residents. While specific medical transport brands operating directly within Sherrodsville are unlikely, several regional providers serve Carroll County. These services, often catering to non-emergency medical transportation, require pre-booking and may have limitations regarding coverage and availability. The cost of these services can also be a significant financial burden, potentially impacting healthcare access for those with limited incomes.

Emergency medical services (EMS) are available, primarily through the Carroll County Emergency Medical Services. Response times, while generally within acceptable parameters, can be affected by the rural geography and distance to hospitals. The nearest hospital, Aultman Carrollton Hospital, is located in Carrollton. The journey, primarily via **State Route 39**, could take 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the severity of the emergency and traffic conditions.

Healthcare access extends beyond the physical journey. The availability of healthcare providers is another critical factor. Carrollton offers a limited selection of primary care physicians, specialists, and pharmacies. The demand for healthcare services often exceeds the supply, leading to longer wait times for appointments and potential delays in receiving necessary medical care. This scarcity of providers further diminishes the Hypertension Score.

For individuals considering moving to Sherrodsville, the transportation and healthcare landscape should be a primary consideration. While the village offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of accessing healthcare cannot be overlooked. Prospective residents, particularly those managing hypertension, should carefully assess their transportation needs, explore options for securing reliable transportation, and consider the potential impact of distance and limited services on their healthcare management.

The availability of pharmacies is also a crucial factor. Residents of Sherrodsville must travel to Carrollton to fill prescriptions. This adds another layer of complexity to managing hypertension, requiring regular trips to obtain necessary medications. Delays in obtaining medication can have severe health consequences.

Telemedicine offers a potential solution to bridge the healthcare access gap. Telehealth appointments with physicians can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for routine checkups and medication management. However, access to reliable internet service is essential for utilizing telemedicine. The availability of high-speed internet in Sherrodsville might be a limitation, further impacting healthcare access.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a vital role in ensuring accessibility. However, the lack of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles pose significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. The availability of accessible parking, ramps, and other accommodations at healthcare facilities in Carrollton is essential, but these measures alone cannot compensate for the lack of accessible transportation options.

The Hypertension Score for Sherrodsville (44675) is relatively low. The rural location, the absence of public transportation, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the distance to healthcare facilities all contribute to significant challenges in accessing timely and convenient medical care. While medical transport services and telemedicine can offer some relief, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for weather-related delays pose ongoing risks for individuals managing hypertension.

Ultimately, residents of Sherrodsville and those considering moving there must prioritize healthcare access. Careful planning, exploring transportation options, and establishing a strong relationship with healthcare providers are essential for successfully managing hypertension in this rural environment. The beauty of Sherrodsville is undeniable, but the realities of healthcare access must be carefully weighed.