45135, Leesburg, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 45135, Leesburg, Ohio is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.88 percent of residents in 45135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.96 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greenfield Area Medical Center with a distance of 8.46 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Leesburg (ZIP Code 45135)

The specter of hypertension, or high blood pressure, looms large in the health landscape. Its silent progression can lead to devastating consequences, making consistent monitoring and timely intervention paramount. For residents of Leesburg, Ohio (ZIP Code 45135), access to these vital healthcare components is intricately linked to their ability to navigate the transportation network. This analysis, framed as a "Hypertension Score," assesses the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing hypertension-related healthcare services within and around this community. The score, though not a numerical value, reflects the ease or difficulty individuals face in securing appointments, receiving prescriptions, and attending follow-up care, all crucial for managing this prevalent condition.

The primary determinant of a favorable score is proximity to healthcare providers. In Leesburg, the closest options for comprehensive care are located in Hillsboro, approximately 10 miles away, or Wilmington, roughly 20 miles distant. These distances, while seemingly manageable, become significant when considering the transportation infrastructure and the potential impact of a health crisis.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation for most residents. The primary artery connecting Leesburg to Hillsboro is **State Route 753**, a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours, especially around school zones and intersections. The drive typically takes around 15-20 minutes, but this can be extended by traffic or inclement weather. Traveling to Wilmington involves utilizing **State Route 753** to connect with **U.S. Route 68**, a more substantial highway. This journey averages 30-40 minutes, presenting a greater time commitment and potential for unforeseen delays.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. Highland County, where Leesburg resides, does not have a comprehensive public transit system. There are no fixed-route buses or dedicated services connecting Leesburg directly to Hillsboro or Wilmington. This absence significantly reduces healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or face financial constraints. The lack of public transportation negatively impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, is not guaranteed. The cost of these services can also be prohibitive for individuals with limited incomes, further exacerbating healthcare access disparities. The reliance on ride-sharing as a primary mode of transportation would likely result in a lower Hypertension Score.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for individuals with mobility challenges or medical needs, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like CareRide or First Transit may provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. However, these services often require advance booking and can have limited availability, particularly for same-day appointments. The cost of NEMT can also be substantial, adding to the financial burden of healthcare. While these services offer a vital lifeline for some, their limitations impact the overall Hypertension Score.

Pharmacy access is another crucial element. Leesburg has a local pharmacy, providing convenient access to prescription medications. However, specialized medications or those requiring compounding may necessitate a trip to a pharmacy in Hillsboro or Wilmington. This further underscores the importance of reliable transportation.

The availability of urgent care facilities or emergency medical services (EMS) also affects the score. Highland District Hospital in Hillsboro provides emergency services. In a hypertensive crisis, timely access to emergency care is critical. The response time of EMS and the proximity to a hospital are crucial factors in determining the prognosis.

The overall Hypertension Score for Leesburg residents is moderate. While the drive times to Hillsboro and Wilmington are not excessively long, the lack of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access for certain populations. Individuals without personal vehicles, those with limited mobility, or those facing financial constraints may struggle to attend regular appointments, obtain necessary medications, and receive timely medical attention.

For individuals considering moving to Leesburg, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. Assessing personal transportation options, researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and understanding the limitations of medical transportation are crucial steps in ensuring access to hypertension-related healthcare.

The Hypertension Score is not static. It can be improved through various interventions. Encouraging the development of a local transportation initiative, partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide discounted services, or expanding medical transportation options could significantly enhance healthcare access for Leesburg residents. Promoting telehealth services, where appropriate, could also mitigate the challenges associated with transportation.

Ultimately, the ability to effectively manage hypertension in Leesburg hinges on a multifaceted approach. Addressing the transportation challenges, improving access to healthcare services, and fostering a community-wide awareness of hypertension are essential steps in improving the health and well-being of all residents. A higher Hypertension Score translates to better health outcomes and a more vibrant community.