44693, Deersville, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44693, Deersville, Ohio is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.67 percent of residents in 44693 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Hospital with a distance of 35.58 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Deersville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44693)

Deersville, Ohio, nestled in the rolling hills of Harrison County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for residents seeking to manage their health, particularly those grappling with hypertension. This write-up analyzes the landscape of healthcare access in ZIP code 44693, focusing on transportation options and their impact on the Hypertension Score, a metric reflecting the ease with which individuals can reach necessary medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial, especially for those considering moving to Deersville and managing their health.

The ability to promptly and consistently access healthcare is paramount for individuals with hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication management, and timely interventions are essential to control blood pressure and prevent serious complications. The availability and efficiency of transportation options directly influence an individual's ability to adhere to their healthcare regimen. Therefore, the transportation infrastructure within and surrounding Deersville plays a vital role in shaping the Hypertension Score.

**The Road to Healthcare: Driving Times and Routes**

For most residents of Deersville, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is by personal vehicle. The town's relative isolation necessitates reliance on cars for accessing medical services. The most direct route to larger medical centers typically involves navigating a network of state routes and county roads.

The primary artery connecting Deersville to the outside world is **State Route 22**. Traveling east on SR-22 provides access to Cadiz, the county seat, where residents can find the Harrison Community Hospital. The drive to Cadiz is typically a manageable 20-30 minute journey, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This proximity offers a reasonable level of healthcare access for routine check-ups and less specialized care.

Further afield, **Interstate 70** offers access to larger medical facilities in the Wheeling, West Virginia, area, approximately an hour's drive east. This route provides access to a wider range of specialists and more comprehensive medical services. However, the longer drive time, coupled with potential traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals requiring frequent appointments.

Traveling west on SR-22 leads to the city of Cambridge, Ohio, where residents can access the Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center. The drive to Cambridge is roughly 45-60 minutes. This option offers another avenue for healthcare access, providing a balance between proximity and the availability of specialized services. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and accessibility.

The availability of reliable and efficient transportation is crucial in managing hypertension. Delays in accessing medical care can lead to missed appointments, delayed medication refills, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. The time spent traveling to and from appointments can also be a significant stressor, further impacting blood pressure levels.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Deersville are extremely limited. Harrison County, being a rural area, lacks a comprehensive public transit system. This absence presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive due to physical limitations, or prefer not to drive.

The lack of public transit significantly lowers the Hypertension Score for those reliant on alternative transportation. The absence of regular bus routes or other public transportation options leaves these individuals with limited choices, potentially hindering their ability to access necessary medical care.

While there might be some demand-response transportation services available through the county, these services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, making them less convenient for urgent or unscheduled medical needs. The availability of such services and their accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA features) would need to be further investigated to assess their impact on the Hypertension Score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: A Patchwork Solution**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally unavailable in Deersville and the surrounding rural areas. This lack of access further compounds the transportation challenges faced by residents, particularly those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide an alternative for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive, and their availability may be limited, especially for residents in remote areas.

The reliance on medical transportation services also underscores the importance of community support networks. Family members, friends, and neighbors often play a crucial role in providing transportation assistance. However, this reliance can be inconsistent and may not always meet the needs of individuals with hypertension.

**Factors Influencing the Hypertension Score**

Several factors contribute to the overall Hypertension Score for Deersville residents:

* **Drive Times:** The time required to reach healthcare facilities, especially those offering specialized care, significantly impacts the score.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The absence of public transportation severely limits healthcare access for a segment of the population.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The lack of ride-sharing and the potential cost and availability limitations of medical transport services further complicate transportation options.
* **Road Conditions:** The condition of roads, particularly during winter months, can affect travel times and safety.
* **Community Support:** The availability of informal transportation assistance from family, friends, and neighbors plays a crucial role.

**Moving to Deersville: A Consideration for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Deersville, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions like hypertension. The limited transportation options necessitate careful planning and consideration.

Prospective residents should evaluate their ability to drive, access a personal vehicle, and the availability of support networks for transportation assistance. They should also research the proximity of healthcare facilities, the services offered, and the potential travel times involved.

Individuals with hypertension should proactively establish relationships with local healthcare providers and explore options for medication management and remote monitoring. They should also investigate the availability of home healthcare services, which can reduce the need for frequent travel.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Landscape**

The Hypertension Score in Deersville, Ohio (ZIP code 44693) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the town offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the limited transportation options present significant challenges for healthcare access, particularly for individuals with hypertension.

The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of public transit, and the limited availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning and proactive management. Residents must navigate a landscape where healthcare access is heavily dependent on individual resources and community support.

Understanding these complexities is crucial for residents and those considering moving to Deersville. By acknowledging the challenges and exploring available resources, individuals can mitigate the impact of transportation limitations and ensure they receive the necessary healthcare to manage their hypertension effectively.