44856, North Robinson, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44856, North Robinson, Ohio is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.79 percent of residents in 44856 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucyrus Community Hospital with a distance of 6.42 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in North Robinson (ZIP Code 44856)

The heart of Ohio, and specifically North Robinson (ZIP code 44856), presents a unique landscape for individuals managing hypertension. Understanding the nuances of healthcare access, particularly transportation options, is crucial for effective disease management. This write-up provides a comprehensive overview, analyzing the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access in this rural community, ultimately informing a “Hypertension Score” reflecting the ease with which residents can obtain necessary medical care.

The primary challenge in North Robinson stems from its rural character. Healthcare facilities, including hospitals, specialist clinics, and pharmacies, are not immediately adjacent. This necessitates reliance on various transportation methods, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The ability to consistently and reliably reach these facilities directly impacts a resident's ability to adhere to prescribed medication regimens, attend follow-up appointments, and manage their hypertension effectively.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For those who drive, the most direct route to healthcare often involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. The primary artery for accessing larger medical centers is **US Route 30**, which runs east-west, connecting North Robinson to Mansfield, approximately 15 miles east. Drive time to the major hospitals in Mansfield, such as OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital, averages around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Another key roadway is **State Route 4**, running north-south, offering access to Bucyrus, roughly 10 miles south. While Bucyrus may offer some primary care options, it’s less likely to provide the specialized care that might be necessary for complex hypertension cases. Drive time to Bucyrus is generally around 15-20 minutes.

Local roads, including **Crawford County Road 40** and **North Robinson Road**, provide access to smaller clinics and pharmacies within the immediate vicinity. However, these facilities may have limited services. Residents should consider the potential for inclement weather to impact travel times, particularly during winter months. Snow and ice can significantly extend drive times and create hazardous conditions.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

Public transportation options in North Robinson are limited. Crawford County operates a small public transit system, but services are typically demand-response, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This system, while offering a lifeline for some, may not be ideal for urgent medical needs or for those requiring frequent appointments.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is essential for individuals with mobility limitations. Riders should confirm ADA features when booking rides. The routes are not numbered in a way that helps with navigation. The availability of public transit is a major factor in the Hypertension Score because it is less reliable than other options.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their presence may be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Availability can vary, and wait times might be longer compared to more urban areas. This can create challenges for those needing immediate transportation to a healthcare facility.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are typically reserved for critical medical needs. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, which offer scheduled rides to medical appointments, are also available. These services are often covered by insurance, making them a more affordable option for those without personal transportation.

**Medical Transportation Brands:**

Several NEMT providers operate in the area, including:

* **First Transit:** A national provider, offering services for Medicaid and other insurance plans.
* **LogistiCare:** Another large NEMT provider, often contracted by managed care organizations.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** Some local ambulance services may offer non-emergency transport.

It is crucial to research and understand the specific coverage offered by each provider and the individual's insurance plan.

**Healthcare Access and the Hypertension Score:**

The "Hypertension Score" for North Robinson (44856) is a composite metric reflecting the ease of accessing healthcare services, specifically for individuals managing hypertension. This score considers several factors:

* **Drive Times:** The average drive time to the nearest hospitals, specialist clinics, and pharmacies.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The availability, frequency, and accessibility of public transportation.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and affordability of NEMT services.
* **Proximity to Pharmacies:** The distance to pharmacies offering prescription refills and medication counseling.
* **Availability of Telehealth:** The availability of telehealth services from local providers.

The score would be lower (indicating poorer access) if drive times are long, public transit is unreliable, ride-sharing is limited, and NEMT options are scarce or expensive. Conversely, a higher score would reflect shorter drive times, reliable public transit, readily available ride-sharing, and accessible NEMT services.

**Moving to North Robinson: A Healthcare Perspective:**

For individuals considering moving to North Robinson, understanding the transportation landscape is critical, especially for those with chronic conditions like hypertension. While the area offers a quiet, rural lifestyle, potential residents must carefully assess their healthcare needs and the available transportation options.

Before making a move, prospective residents should:

* **Research local healthcare providers:** Identify hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies within a reasonable distance.
* **Investigate transportation options:** Determine the availability and reliability of public transit, ride-sharing, and NEMT services.
* **Consider the potential for telehealth:** Explore the availability of telehealth services from local providers.
* **Factor in travel time and cost:** Account for the time and expense associated with traveling to healthcare appointments.
* **Assess the impact of weather:** Consider the potential for inclement weather to disrupt transportation.

**Conclusion:**

Managing hypertension effectively in North Robinson requires a proactive approach to healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the rural nature necessitates careful planning and consideration of transportation options. The Hypertension Score, incorporating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, provides a valuable tool for assessing the ease of accessing healthcare. By understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape, residents can ensure they receive the timely and consistent medical care necessary to effectively manage their hypertension and maintain their overall health. The ability to reliably reach medical care is a key component of the quality of life in North Robinson.