44840, Jeromesville, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44840, Jeromesville, Ohio is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.88 percent of residents in 44840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wooster Community Hospital with a distance of 13.21 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Commute to Healthcare in Jeromesville (ZIP Code 44840)

Jeromesville, Ohio, a charming village nestled in Ashland County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access, particularly for individuals managing hypertension. This analysis, a "Hypertension Score" write-up, focuses on the transportation infrastructure and options available to residents of ZIP code 44840, evaluating their ability to access necessary medical care, a critical factor in controlling high blood pressure. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding for those already residing in Jeromesville, and for those considering moving to Jeromesville, especially those managing hypertension.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the geographical realities of Jeromesville. The village is relatively rural, with a dispersed population. This characteristic significantly impacts transportation options. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. This necessitates a detailed examination of drive times to healthcare facilities, considering the existing road network.

The primary artery connecting Jeromesville to the outside world is **State Route 302**. This road serves as a vital link to Ashland, the county seat, and to other surrounding towns. Travel times on Route 302 are generally reasonable, but can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months. The road is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be slow during peak hours.

Heading west from Jeromesville, **State Route 89** becomes a crucial connector. This route provides access to the larger city of Wooster, which offers a broader range of healthcare services. Drive times to Wooster, however, are longer than those to Ashland, potentially posing a challenge for individuals needing frequent medical attention.

The presence of **Interstate 71**, a major north-south highway, is a double-edged sword. While it offers the potential for faster travel to larger cities like Cleveland and Columbus, the access points are not immediately accessible from Jeromesville. This means residents must navigate local roads to reach the interstate, adding to the overall travel time.

The drive to Ashland, the closest location with a hospital, typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Jeromesville. The drive to Wooster is longer, usually requiring 30-45 minutes. Accessing healthcare in Cleveland or Columbus, while offering a wider array of specialized services, would necessitate a drive of at least one to two hours, making it less practical for routine care.

Public transportation options in Jeromesville are limited. Ashland County does not have a comprehensive public transit system like you might find in a larger metropolitan area. This reality poses a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle, or for those unable to drive due to health conditions or age.

The absence of robust public transportation underscores the reliance on alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and cost can vary. The rural nature of the area may result in longer wait times or higher fares, especially during off-peak hours.

Medical transportation services are another crucial component of healthcare access. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to transportation.

The availability and reliability of NEMT services are crucial for residents managing hypertension. Frequent doctor visits, medication refills, and other necessary medical appointments are essential for controlling blood pressure. The cost of these services, and the time required to schedule them, must be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of these services is another critical consideration. Individuals with disabilities must have access to transportation that meets their needs. This includes vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts, and drivers trained to assist passengers with mobility challenges.

For those moving to Jeromesville, understanding the limitations of transportation options is paramount. Individuals with hypertension must carefully consider their ability to access regular medical care. The availability of reliable transportation is not just a convenience; it's a necessity for managing their health.

The "Hypertension Score" for Jeromesville would, therefore, be influenced by several factors. The score would consider drive times to healthcare facilities, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, the presence and accessibility of medical transportation, and the overall accessibility of the road network.

The score would also factor in the potential for weather-related disruptions to travel. Winter weather, with its snow and ice, can significantly impact road conditions and travel times, potentially delaying or preventing access to medical care.

The score might also consider the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth, the use of technology to provide healthcare remotely, can be a valuable tool for managing hypertension. Remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, especially for those with transportation challenges.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Jeromesville, therefore, would be a nuanced assessment, reflecting the interplay of various factors. The score would provide a valuable tool for residents and potential residents, helping them understand the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare in this rural community.

For individuals considering moving to Jeromesville, the transportation component of healthcare access must be a primary consideration. A thorough understanding of drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of alternative transportation options is crucial for making an informed decision.

The goal of this assessment is not to discourage individuals from moving to Jeromesville. Instead, it is to provide a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed decisions that support their health and well-being. The "Hypertension Score" is a tool for informed living, promoting proactive healthcare management in a rural setting.