45153, Moscow, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 45153, Moscow, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.22 percent of residents in 45153 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Clermont Hospital with a distance of 14.80 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Moscow, Ohio (ZIP Code 45153)

The quiet village of Moscow, Ohio, nestled along the Ohio River in ZIP Code 45153, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, especially for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, a critical factor in determining a "Hypertension Score" for residents, focusing on the realities of commuting to medical appointments and the availability of support services. The score will be derived from an assessment of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is particularly relevant for anyone considering moving to Moscow, as it directly impacts their ability to manage their health.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a formal medical assessment. Instead, it's a composite measure reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing necessary healthcare services. Factors considered include the time, cost, and stress associated with reaching medical appointments, all of which can significantly impact a patient's ability to adhere to their treatment plan. The goal is to provide a realistic picture of the transportation challenges and opportunities in Moscow, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Arteries of Access**

For residents of Moscow, the automobile remains the dominant mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The primary routes connecting Moscow to medical facilities are the winding roads that snake through the rolling hills of Clermont County. State Route 756, the main artery through the village, provides the initial link to the wider network. From there, residents typically utilize State Route 133, a more direct route, to reach larger towns and cities.

The drive time to the nearest major healthcare providers is a crucial element of the "Hypertension Score." The closest hospital, Mercy Hospital Anderson, located in Cincinnati, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive, depending on traffic conditions. The journey involves navigating State Route 133, which can experience congestion during peak hours. The distance to other Cincinnati hospitals, such as the University of Cincinnati Medical Center or The Christ Hospital, can extend the drive time to over an hour, significantly impacting a patient's ability to receive timely care.

The condition of the roads is another factor. While State Route 133 is generally well-maintained, the smaller, local roads within Moscow can be affected by weather conditions, especially during winter months. This can further complicate travel and increase drive times. These factors contribute to a moderate score for automobile accessibility, acknowledging the reliance on personal vehicles while recognizing the potential for delays and challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Moscow are extremely limited. The lack of a robust public transit system significantly impacts the "Hypertension Score," particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The primary public transit provider for the region is the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), which operates the Metro bus system in Cincinnati. However, Metro's service area does not extend to Moscow.

The Clermont Transportation Connection (CTC) provides some public transportation services within Clermont County. However, CTC's routes are limited and often require advance booking. They may offer demand-response service, which necessitates scheduling a ride in advance. This can pose a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent and unscheduled medical appointments. The lack of readily available public transit contributes to a low score for this category, highlighting the need for alternative transportation solutions.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. While CTC vehicles are equipped with ADA features, the limited service area and the need for advance booking can still create barriers for individuals with disabilities. This further underscores the challenges faced by residents of Moscow who rely on public transportation.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cincinnati metropolitan area, including Moscow. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. This impacts the "Hypertension Score" by adding an element of uncertainty and financial burden to healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the Cincinnati area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. The cost of NEMT can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required.

The availability of medical transport services improves the "Hypertension Score" for those who qualify, but the cost and the need for pre-arranged bookings still represent limitations. The reliance on these services also highlights the lack of readily available and affordable transportation options for many residents.

**The "Hypertension Score" in Context: Moving to Moscow**

The "Hypertension Score" for Moscow, Ohio (ZIP Code 45153) is moderate, reflecting the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, creates a significant barrier for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some relief, but the cost and the need for pre-booking still present challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Moscow, it is crucial to factor in the transportation landscape when evaluating their healthcare access. Those with hypertension, or other chronic conditions requiring regular medical attention, should carefully assess their ability to drive, the availability of support from family or friends, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical transport.

The proximity to Cincinnati hospitals offers access to a wide range of medical services, but the drive times and traffic conditions must be considered. Planning ahead, exploring all available transportation options, and establishing a strong relationship with healthcare providers are essential for managing hypertension effectively in Moscow. This assessment serves as a starting point for a more detailed evaluation, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the transportation challenges inherent in this beautiful, yet somewhat isolated, community.