44681, Sugarcreek, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44681, Sugarcreek, Ohio is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.72 percent of residents in 44681 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 14.41 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sugarcreek (ZIP Code 44681)

The quaint village of Sugarcreek, nestled in the heart of Ohio's Amish Country (ZIP Code 44681), offers a serene lifestyle that often attracts those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle. However, the idyllic setting necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for residents managing hypertension, a condition demanding regular medical attention and medication adherence. This write-up provides a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment for the area, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, a crucial element for anyone **moving to Sugarcreek**.

Understanding the challenges of **healthcare access** in this rural environment is paramount. The Hypertension Score will assess the feasibility of reaching essential medical appointments, pharmacies, and specialist consultations, all vital for effective hypertension management. The score will consider various **transportation** modes, evaluating their availability, accessibility, and overall convenience. This analysis will enable residents, especially those with mobility limitations or relying on public transportation, to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Sugarcreek is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area's infrastructure is predominantly designed for automobile travel, with limited public transit options. While this offers flexibility, it also presents challenges for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a car. The surrounding landscape, with its rolling hills and winding roads, further complicates travel, especially during inclement weather.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The nearest primary care physicians and pharmacies are located in Sugarcreek itself, providing relatively convenient access for residents. However, specialized medical services, such as cardiology, endocrinology, and nephrology, necessitate travel to larger towns and cities.

To access these specialized services, residents typically utilize **State Route 39**, the main thoroughfare through Sugarcreek. This road connects to **Interstate 77**, offering access to Canton (approximately 30 miles north) and New Philadelphia (approximately 15 miles south). Drive times to Canton, where a wider range of medical specialists and hospitals are available, can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The drive to New Philadelphia is considerably shorter, taking approximately 20-30 minutes.

The drive to larger medical centers in Akron (approximately 70 miles north) or Columbus (approximately 110 miles southwest) can take up to two hours, significantly impacting the feasibility of regular appointments. These longer drive times can be a significant burden for individuals with hypertension, potentially leading to appointment delays or missed visits, which can compromise their health management.

**Public Transportation Assessment:**

Public transportation options in Sugarcreek are extremely limited. The Tuscarawas County Transit (TCT) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is available within Tuscarawas County, including Sugarcreek, but it may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or spontaneous appointments.

TCT operates on a limited schedule, and its availability may be restricted during evenings, weekends, and holidays. Furthermore, the service may not extend to all healthcare facilities, especially those located outside of Tuscarawas County. The TCT website (www.co.tuscarawas.oh.us/transit) provides detailed information on routes, schedules, and fares.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit users. TCT vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and the need for advance scheduling can still pose challenges for those requiring accessible transportation.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their availability may be less consistent than in larger urban centers. Ride-share availability often fluctuates depending on driver availability and demand, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for regular medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance, are another option. Several medical transportation companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) services. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

The cost of medical transportation can vary depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the specific service provider. Researching and comparing the services of various providers, such as First Choice Medical Transportation or Med-Ride, is essential to find the most suitable and affordable option.

**Pharmacy Access:**

Pharmacy access is generally good in Sugarcreek, with several local pharmacies available. These pharmacies offer prescription filling services, medication counseling, and other healthcare-related products. The proximity of pharmacies to residents is a significant advantage for managing hypertension, as it facilitates timely medication refills and consultations.

**Overall Hypertension Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the analysis, the Hypertension Score for Sugarcreek (ZIP Code 44681) is moderate. While residents have access to local primary care and pharmacy services, accessing specialized medical care necessitates travel, primarily by personal vehicle. The limited public transportation options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a car.

For residents managing hypertension, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Prioritize Proximity:** When selecting a healthcare provider, prioritize those located within Sugarcreek or nearby towns to minimize travel time.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments and medication refills in advance to avoid delays.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Investigate the availability and cost of TCT, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers.
* **Utilize Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options for routine check-ups and medication management, reducing the need for in-person visits.
* **Build a Support Network:** Establish a support network of family, friends, or neighbors who can assist with transportation to medical appointments.
* **Consider Location:** When **moving to Sugarcreek**, carefully consider the proximity of your chosen residence to healthcare facilities and pharmacies.

Living in Sugarcreek offers a unique lifestyle, but it is essential to acknowledge the limitations in healthcare access. By understanding the transportation landscape and proactively planning for healthcare needs, residents with hypertension can effectively manage their condition and maintain their well-being. The key is to proactively assess and adapt to the available resources, ensuring that healthcare access remains a priority in this charming, yet geographically dispersed, community.