44706, Canton, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44706, Canton, Ohio is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.81 percent of residents in 44706 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Hospital with a distance of 1.88 miles from the area.

**Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44706**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move, particularly when dealing with chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis provides a detailed assessment of transportation options for residents of Canton, Ohio's 44706 ZIP code, focusing on their ability to reach essential healthcare services. The "Hypertension Score" aims to evaluate the ease and efficiency of accessing medical care, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport alternatives.

The 44706 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Canton, a city steeped in industrial history and evolving into a hub for healthcare. Assessing the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount for residents, especially those managing hypertension, a condition requiring regular monitoring and medication adherence. The effectiveness of transportation options directly impacts the quality of life and the ability to maintain optimal health. This exploration delves into the practical realities of getting to and from medical appointments, considering the diverse needs of the population.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to various healthcare facilities is crucial. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 77 (I-77) and U.S. Route 62 (US-62) form the backbone of the transportation network. Accessing Mercy Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, from various points within 44706 typically involves a drive of 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the specific location and traffic conditions.

Traveling to Aultman Hospital, another prominent medical center, might take a similar amount of time, usually ranging from 10 to 20 minutes, often involving a combination of local roads and highway segments. The efficiency of these commutes can be affected by rush hour congestion, particularly along Whipple Avenue NW and 12th Street NW, which serve as critical arteries. Residents planning to move to Canton should factor in these potential delays when assessing their healthcare access.

Smaller clinics and specialized practices, such as those focusing on cardiology or endocrinology, might be located closer to residential areas, potentially reducing drive times to under 10 minutes. However, the availability of these specialized services within close proximity is variable and needs to be investigated based on individual healthcare needs. The presence of ample parking at healthcare facilities is also a crucial consideration, especially for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Public Transportation: Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA)**

SARTA, the local public transit authority, provides bus services throughout Canton and the surrounding areas. The accessibility of public transportation is a significant factor for individuals who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. Several SARTA routes serve the 44706 ZIP code, offering connections to major healthcare facilities and medical offices.

Route 101, for example, provides service along Cleveland Avenue NW, a major thoroughfare within the ZIP code, and connects to downtown Canton, where many medical offices are located. Route 104 serves the area around Mercy Medical Center, offering a direct link for residents in the northern part of 44706. Route 102 is another valuable route, connecting the downtown area to the west side of Canton.

SARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating, to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of bus service can vary depending on the route and the time of day. Residents relying on public transportation need to carefully consider the bus schedules and potential wait times when planning their healthcare appointments. The availability of accessible bus stops and shelters is also a critical factor in evaluating the overall usability of the public transit system.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. The availability of these services in Canton is generally good, providing a convenient way to travel to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide a specialized option for those who require assistance with transportation. These services, such as MedStar Ambulance and ProCare Ambulance, offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. The availability of these services is generally good within the Canton area, but the cost and the need for prior arrangements should be considered.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Canton**

When considering a move to Canton and specifically to the 44706 ZIP code, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. The availability of transportation options directly impacts the ability to attend medical appointments, pick up prescriptions, and receive necessary care.

The analysis reveals a mixed picture. While driving times to major healthcare facilities are generally reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a challenge for those without access to a car. Public transportation offers a viable alternative, but the frequency and coverage of bus routes should be carefully considered. Ride-sharing services provide flexibility, but the cost can be a barrier. Medical transport services offer specialized assistance, but they require prior arrangements and can be expensive.

The "Hypertension Score" for 44706, therefore, is contingent on individual circumstances. For residents with personal vehicles and the ability to drive, healthcare access is generally good. For those reliant on public transportation, careful planning and consideration of bus schedules are necessary. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer additional options, but their cost and availability should be carefully evaluated.

Ultimately, the ease of accessing healthcare in 44706 depends on a combination of factors. Understanding the available transportation options, their associated costs, and their accessibility is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare and overall well-being. Residents moving to Canton should proactively research the healthcare facilities in the area, assess their transportation needs, and develop a plan to ensure they can consistently access the care they require.