45132, Highland, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 45132, Highland, Ohio is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.64 percent of residents in 45132 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland District Hospital with a distance of 8.30 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Highland, Ohio (ZIP Code 45132)

The pursuit of optimal health, particularly for individuals managing hypertension, necessitates reliable **transportation** to and from healthcare appointments. This write-up delves into the landscape of **healthcare access** within ZIP code 45132 (Highland, Ohio), offering a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment. This score considers factors such as drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, all crucial elements for those **moving to Highland** or already residing there. The ultimate goal is to illuminate the ease or difficulty of accessing essential medical care, specifically for those managing hypertension.

The assessment begins with the most common mode of transport: the personal vehicle. For residents of Highland, the primary arteries for reaching medical facilities are State Route 32 and State Route 134. The drive time to the nearest major hospital, Mercy Hospital Clermont in Batavia, Ohio, typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey primarily involves navigating State Route 32, a well-maintained highway that can experience congestion during peak commuting hours.

Further afield, the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, a renowned facility, presents a longer commute. Reaching this center from Highland necessitates traveling on State Route 32, then connecting to I-275, a major beltway around Cincinnati. The total drive time can fluctuate between 45 minutes and an hour, again influenced by traffic flow, especially during rush hour. This longer drive time could pose a challenge for individuals with hypertension, particularly during urgent situations.

Alternative routes exist, albeit with potential drawbacks. County roads, such as Old State Route 32, offer a more scenic but often slower passage. These roads, while less prone to heavy traffic, may have more curves and intersections, potentially adding to travel time and increasing stress levels, a factor to consider for those managing hypertension. Therefore, while these roads offer options, they are not always the most efficient or stress-free routes.

Public transit, while available, presents a less robust option for residents of Highland. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating as Metro, provides limited bus service in the area. Route 64X, the most relevant for Highland residents, offers express service to downtown Cincinnati, with stops along State Route 32. However, the frequency of this route is limited, and the travel time to downtown Cincinnati, even on an express route, can be substantial, often exceeding an hour.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on these buses is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. SORTA strives to ensure all buses are ADA compliant, equipped with ramps and designated seating. However, the limited route options and infrequent service make public transit a less practical solution for routine medical appointments, especially for those needing frequent check-ups or facing mobility challenges related to their hypertension.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of **transportation** options. However, their availability in Highland can be inconsistent. While these services are generally accessible, the response times and pricing can vary depending on demand and the time of day. During peak hours or in inclement weather, wait times may increase, and surge pricing could significantly impact the cost of a ride. This unpredictability can be a concern for individuals with hypertension who require timely access to medical care.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, provide a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide and First Transit offer non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services in the Cincinnati area, including Highland. These services typically offer door-to-door service, assisting patients with mobility challenges and ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. However, these services require pre-booking and may not be readily available for urgent situations. Furthermore, the cost of these services can be a significant factor, especially for those without adequate insurance coverage.

The "Hypertension Score" for Highland, Ohio (45132) takes these factors into account. Drive times to hospitals are moderate, but traffic congestion on State Route 32 can impact travel times. Public transit options are limited, and ride-share availability is variable. Medical transport services offer a viable but potentially costly solution.

Considering these elements, the "Hypertension Score" for Highland, Ohio, reflects a moderate level of **healthcare access** for individuals managing hypertension. While the availability of **transportation** options exists, their reliability, frequency, and cost can present challenges. Those **moving to Highland** should carefully consider these factors when evaluating their access to medical care.

Recommendations for improving the "Hypertension Score" in Highland include advocating for increased public transit service frequency, particularly along State Route 32. Collaboration between local healthcare providers and medical transport companies could also streamline access to care. Furthermore, exploring community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, could provide affordable **transportation** solutions for those in need.

In conclusion, while Highland offers a reasonable level of **healthcare access**, individuals with hypertension should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and plan accordingly. Understanding the available options, from personal vehicles to medical transport services, is crucial for ensuring timely and reliable access to essential medical care. This knowledge empowers residents to proactively manage their health and navigate the **healthcare access** landscape effectively, especially for those considering **moving to Highland**.