44683, Uhrichsville, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44683, Uhrichsville, Ohio is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.12 percent of residents in 44683 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Hospital with a distance of 29.50 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Uhrichsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44683)

The journey to managing hypertension, a silent threat to cardiovascular health, often hinges on a critical factor: access to timely and reliable healthcare. For residents of Uhrichsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44683), this access is inextricably linked to the available transportation options. This write-up assesses the "Hypertension Score" for this community, examining the landscape of transportation and its impact on healthcare access, particularly for those seeking treatment for hypertension. We will explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a detailed picture for residents and those considering moving to Uhrichsville.

Uhrichsville, nestled in Tuscarawas County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, while offering a slower pace of life, can complicate healthcare access. The availability of transportation options directly impacts the ability of residents to receive regular check-ups, obtain necessary medications, and participate in lifestyle interventions crucial for managing hypertension. The "Hypertension Score" considers these factors, providing a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals in this community.

**The Road to Care: Drive Times and Infrastructure**

For many Uhrichsville residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the condition of the roads and the distance to medical facilities. The closest major hospitals are in New Philadelphia, approximately 15-20 miles away, and in Canton, around 50 miles.

Traveling to New Philadelphia, one typically utilizes **State Route 256** to connect with **Interstate 77**. The drive is relatively straightforward, with well-maintained roads and moderate traffic, allowing for a predictable commute. However, during inclement weather, such as heavy snow or ice, travel times can increase significantly, potentially delaying critical medical care.

Venturing to Canton involves navigating **State Route 212** to **Interstate 77**. This route is longer, adding to the overall travel time and potentially increasing the burden on individuals with hypertension. The drive also necessitates traversing a more significant portion of the county, increasing the risk of encountering traffic delays or road closures.

The condition of local roads, including **Eastport Road** and **Main Street**, is also a crucial factor. Potholes and other road imperfections can exacerbate the stress of driving, particularly for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Regular road maintenance is therefore essential to ensure a smooth and safe journey to healthcare. The "Hypertension Score" must account for these potential delays and the impact on patient outcomes.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Uhrichsville are limited. The Tuscarawas County Transportation (TCT) offers a demand-response service, which requires advance booking. While this service provides a lifeline for some, its availability is restricted by operating hours and capacity limitations. The lack of a fixed-route bus system within Uhrichsville presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

The TCT service may offer some ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible vehicles, which is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the need to schedule rides in advance and the potential for longer wait times can be a deterrent for those seeking urgent or routine medical care. The "Hypertension Score" reflects the limited scope of public transportation and its impact on healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Uhrichsville. This lack of readily accessible transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals who rely on these services for healthcare appointments. The absence of these options increases the reliance on personal vehicles, family members, or medical transport services.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized transportation providers, play a vital role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical attention during transport. However, these services can be costly and may require pre-authorization, adding to the complexity of accessing healthcare.

**The "Hypertension Score" and the Future of Healthcare Access**

The "Hypertension Score" for Uhrichsville, Ohio (44683) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the absence of readily available ride-sharing services create challenges for residents seeking timely and convenient access to healthcare. The long distances to hospitals in New Philadelphia and Canton, coupled with potential delays due to weather or road conditions, further complicate the situation.

For those considering moving to Uhrichsville, it is crucial to factor in the transportation landscape when assessing healthcare access. Individuals with hypertension or other chronic health conditions should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential impact on their ability to manage their health effectively.

Improving healthcare access in Uhrichsville requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, expanding ride-sharing services, and supporting medical transport providers are all essential steps. Promoting telehealth services and community-based health programs can also help bridge the gap in healthcare access. By addressing these challenges, Uhrichsville can improve its "Hypertension Score" and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The success of this endeavor is directly linked to the availability and efficiency of transportation options within the community.