44905, Mansfield, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 44905, Mansfield, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.28 percent of residents in 44905 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth Mansfield Hospital with a distance of 2.77 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 44905

The decision to relocate, especially to a new ZIP code like 44905 in Mansfield, Ohio, involves a complex tapestry of considerations. Beyond the allure of a fresh start, the practicalities of daily life, including healthcare access, become paramount. This write-up provides a comprehensive 'Hypertension Score' assessment, focusing on transportation options and their impact on individuals managing hypertension, a condition requiring consistent medical attention. This score, while not a formal medical evaluation, offers a practical guide for understanding the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in understanding the relationship between transportation and healthcare access. Regular medical appointments, medication refills, and the potential for emergency care are all intrinsically linked to the ease and efficiency with which one can travel. For individuals managing hypertension, consistent access is not just a convenience; it's a necessity for effective disease management and overall well-being. Therefore, we will examine the transportation infrastructure within 44905, specifically how it impacts the ability to reach healthcare providers.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The primary mode of transportation in Mansfield, and within 44905, is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The road network, while relatively straightforward, presents its own set of considerations. Major arteries like **Interstate 71 (I-71)** provide access to regional healthcare facilities, including those in Columbus, though this involves a considerable drive. Locally, **U.S. Route 30** is a critical east-west thoroughfare, connecting 44905 to various medical practices and the OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. **State Route 13** also plays a vital role, offering north-south connectivity and access to healthcare providers located along its route.

Drive times within 44905 and to surrounding areas are generally manageable, but they are subject to traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. Rush hour congestion can significantly impact travel times, potentially adding stress for individuals with hypertension. The availability of ample parking at healthcare facilities is another crucial factor, as the stress of searching for a parking spot can exacerbate the condition. Therefore, understanding the typical drive times to various healthcare providers, considering both peak and off-peak traffic, is essential. For instance, a trip to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital from the northern part of 44905 might take 10-15 minutes during off-peak hours, but could easily extend to 20-30 minutes during rush hour.

**Public Transit's Role:**

The availability of public transportation is a significant factor in the 'Hypertension Score'. The Mansfield Transit System (MTS) provides bus service within the city and surrounding areas. The MTS operates several routes, offering a lifeline for those without personal vehicles. However, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. For individuals with hypertension, the ability to reliably reach medical appointments is critical, and infrequent bus schedules can pose a challenge.

Furthermore, the MTS accessibility features are vital for individuals with mobility limitations. The presence of ADA-compliant buses, with ramps and designated seating, is a crucial consideration. However, the physical distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities, and the potential for inclement weather exposure while waiting for the bus, can present challenges. Assessing the proximity of bus stops to healthcare providers within 44905 is crucial for determining the practicality of public transit for individuals managing hypertension.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

The rise of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft has transformed transportation options in many areas. In Mansfield, these services are available, providing an alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. Ride-sharing offers the convenience of door-to-door service, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who prefer to avoid driving. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, offer another layer of support. Companies like CareRide and others provide specialized transportation, often with trained staff to assist with mobility needs. These services can be particularly valuable for individuals who require assistance with getting in and out of vehicles or who have other specific needs. The availability and cost of medical transportation services within 44905 are essential components of the 'Hypertension Score'.

**Assessing the 'Hypertension Score':**

The 'Hypertension Score' is not a single number but a holistic assessment based on the factors outlined above. It considers the following:

* **Drive-Time Accessibility:** The ease of reaching healthcare providers by car, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Reliability:** The frequency, accessibility, and convenience of MTS routes to healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Share Availability and Cost:** The accessibility and affordability of Uber, Lyft, and other ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** The availability, cost, and specialized services offered by medical transportation providers.
* **Proximity to Healthcare:** The distance between residential areas within 44905 and the nearest healthcare facilities.
* **Parking Availability:** The availability of convenient and accessible parking at healthcare providers.

The 'Hypertension Score' would be higher (indicating better access) for individuals living in close proximity to healthcare providers, with easy access to reliable public transit, affordable ride-sharing options, and readily available medical transportation services. Conversely, the score would be lower for those reliant on driving during peak traffic hours, facing challenges with public transit, or lacking access to affordable transportation alternatives.

**Making Informed Decisions:**

For individuals considering moving to Mansfield and specifically to 44905, understanding the 'Hypertension Score' is crucial. It allows for informed decision-making, considering the practicalities of managing hypertension within the local transportation landscape. Before moving, prospective residents should research the proximity of healthcare providers to potential residences, assess the reliability of public transit routes, and investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

Ultimately, the 'Hypertension Score' is a tool to help individuals with hypertension evaluate the suitability of 44905 as a place to live. By carefully considering the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access, individuals can make informed decisions that support their health and well-being. The goal is to ensure that moving to Mansfield is not just a change of scenery but a positive step toward a healthier and more accessible future. The ability to seamlessly navigate the transportation network to access healthcare is an essential element for those managing hypertension.