45014, Fairfield, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 45014, Fairfield, Ohio is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.47 percent of residents in 45014 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Fairfield Hospital with a distance of 2.06 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Fairfield, OH (ZIP Code 45014)

The journey to effective hypertension management in Fairfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 45014) involves more than just medical appointments; it hinges on seamless **transportation** and readily available **healthcare access**. This write-up provides a comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape, crucial for individuals managing hypertension and considering **moving to Fairfield**. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, ultimately informing a "Hypertension Score" reflecting the ease of reaching essential healthcare.

Living with hypertension necessitates regular monitoring, medication refills, and potential specialist visits. The ability to reliably and efficiently reach healthcare providers significantly impacts patient outcomes. Factors like distance, traffic, and available transportation options become critical considerations. This analysis will delve into the specifics of navigating Fairfield, painting a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for individuals managing this chronic condition.

**Driving the Distance: Roadways and Drive Times**

For many residents, driving remains the primary mode of **transportation**. Fairfield, strategically located, offers relatively easy access to healthcare facilities. However, peak traffic periods can significantly extend travel times.

From the heart of Fairfield, accessing major hospitals like UC Health West Chester Hospital, located approximately 6 miles away, typically takes around 15-20 minutes via **Ohio 129** and **Cincinnati-Dayton Road**, assuming moderate traffic. During rush hour, particularly on weekday mornings and evenings, this commute could easily stretch to 30 minutes or more.

Traveling to Mercy Health – Fairfield Hospital, situated closer to the center of town, is a shorter drive, usually under 10 minutes via **Ohio 4** and **Symmes Road**. This proximity is a significant advantage, offering quick access to emergency care and routine appointments.

For specialized care, the drive to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, located in downtown Cincinnati, presents a greater challenge. The journey, primarily via **I-275** and **I-75**, covers roughly 25 miles and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic congestion. This longer travel time underscores the importance of planning and considering the potential for delays, especially for individuals with health concerns.

Other essential roads within Fairfield include **Dixie Highway** and **Winton Road**, which provide alternative routes to various medical offices and clinics. Familiarizing oneself with these options can help navigate traffic and optimize travel times.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Bus System**

The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating as Metro, provides public transit options within the Cincinnati metropolitan area, including Fairfield. While public transit offers an affordable alternative, its effectiveness for hypertension management depends on route availability, frequency, and accessibility.

Several Metro routes serve Fairfield, offering connections to major healthcare hubs. Route 43, for example, provides service along **Dixie Highway**, connecting to various medical offices and potentially linking to larger hospitals via transfer points. Route 19, traveling along **Ohio 4**, also offers connectivity to medical facilities.

However, public transit in Fairfield has limitations. Route frequency can be less frequent during off-peak hours and on weekends, potentially requiring longer wait times. Moreover, the need for transfers can increase travel time and complexity.

Metro prioritizes ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, and priority seating is available for individuals with disabilities. However, the physical demands of boarding, disembarking, and navigating transfer points can still present challenges for some individuals with hypertension, especially those with mobility issues or who experience dizziness.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Solutions**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide on-demand **transportation**, offering a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Fairfield is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from a few minutes to 15 minutes, depending on demand and location. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with healthcare needs, providing door-to-door **transportation** to and from medical appointments. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer non-emergency medical **transportation** in the Cincinnati area. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist with mobility and comfort.

Medical transport can be a valuable resource for individuals with hypertension who require assistance with mobility or who have difficulty navigating public transit or ride-sharing services. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than other options.

**Hypertension Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Hypertension Score" for Fairfield (ZIP Code 45014) reflects a nuanced understanding of **healthcare access** through **transportation**. While the area offers a range of options, the score considers several factors:

* **Proximity to Healthcare:** The presence of Mercy Health – Fairfield Hospital within close proximity provides a significant advantage.
* **Drive Time:** The relatively short drive times to key hospitals and clinics, particularly outside of peak traffic hours, are a positive factor.
* **Public Transit Availability:** While public transit exists, its limitations in terms of frequency and route coverage impact the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds flexibility and accessibility.
* **Traffic Congestion:** The potential for significant delays during peak traffic hours on major roadways like **I-275** and **I-75** negatively affects the score.

Considering these factors, the Hypertension Score for Fairfield (ZIP Code 45014) is moderately favorable. The area offers reasonable access to healthcare, but individuals managing hypertension must carefully consider their **transportation** needs and plan accordingly. The proximity of local hospitals and the availability of ride-sharing services are positive aspects. However, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic delays require careful consideration.

**Recommendations for Individuals Considering Moving to Fairfield:**

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your ability to drive, your comfort level with public transit, and your financial capacity for ride-sharing or medical transport.
* **Research Healthcare Providers:** Identify healthcare providers within easy reach and consider their proximity to your potential residence.
* **Plan for Traffic:** Factor in potential traffic delays, especially when scheduling appointments at hospitals located further away.
* **Explore Public Transit Routes:** Familiarize yourself with Metro routes and schedules to determine their suitability for your needs.
* **Investigate Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Options:** Research the availability and cost of these services in the area.

Ultimately, the success of managing hypertension in Fairfield depends on proactive planning and a clear understanding of the **transportation** landscape. By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about **moving to Fairfield** and ensure they have reliable **healthcare access**.