43019, Fredericktown, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43019, Fredericktown, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.46 percent of residents in 43019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Knox Community Hospital with a distance of 9.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Fredericktown, Ohio (ZIP Code 43019)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately linked to its ability to access essential services, most notably healthcare. For residents of Fredericktown, Ohio (ZIP Code 43019), this access is heavily influenced by the efficiency and availability of transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment of commuting to healthcare within and from this specific ZIP code, considering various modes of transportation, drive times, and the presence of accessible options. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Fredericktown, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" will be a subjective assessment, considering the strengths and weaknesses of the available transportation infrastructure. It acknowledges that the ideal scenario is one where healthcare facilities are readily accessible, regardless of an individual's physical limitations or economic circumstances. The score will reflect the reality of commuting to healthcare in Fredericktown, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that residents face.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Fredericktown residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare often involves navigating the local road network, primarily relying on State Route 95 and State Route 13. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience increased traffic during peak hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes.

For more specialized healthcare needs, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers located in nearby cities like Mount Vernon or even Columbus. The drive to Mount Vernon, approximately 15 miles south, is relatively straightforward, typically taking around 20-30 minutes via State Route 95 and US Route 36. This route provides access to Knox Community Hospital, a crucial healthcare provider for the region.

Traveling to Columbus, approximately 45 miles southwest, presents a significantly longer commute. This journey often involves utilizing State Route 95 to Interstate 71. Depending on traffic conditions, the drive can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, especially during rush hour. This longer commute can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those requiring frequent appointments or facing urgent medical needs.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options within Fredericktown and the surrounding areas are limited. Knox Area Transit (KAT) provides some public transportation services, but their routes and schedules may not directly serve healthcare facilities with optimal efficiency. The availability of fixed-route buses and demand-response services should be assessed, considering their frequency, accessibility features (e.g., wheelchair lifts, ramps), and coverage within the ZIP code and to healthcare destinations.

The lack of robust public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals who cannot drive, including seniors, those with disabilities, and individuals from low-income households. This lack of access can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately impacting their overall health outcomes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their availability may be less reliable in a rural area like Fredericktown compared to major metropolitan areas. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for some individuals, particularly for frequent trips to healthcare providers.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transport. Investigating the availability of medical transportation providers, their service areas, and associated costs is essential. Identifying local providers and their service areas is crucial for determining their usefulness.

**ADA Accessibility:**

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical component of healthcare access. The availability of accessible transportation options, including public transit with ADA-compliant features and accessible ride-sharing services, is crucial. Furthermore, the accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves, including ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms, must be considered.

**Specific Healthcare Facilities and Their Accessibility:**

Assessing the accessibility of specific healthcare facilities within and around Fredericktown is vital. This includes evaluating the availability of parking, the presence of ramps and elevators, and the availability of accessible examination rooms. The proximity of these facilities to public transportation routes or ride-sharing drop-off points is also a factor.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options in ZIP Code 43019, the "Overall Health Score" is **moderate**. While residents have access to healthcare facilities through personal vehicles, the reliance on car travel and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The longer commute times to larger medical centers in Columbus, coupled with the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, can significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility limitations or limited financial resources.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Fredericktown:**

For individuals considering moving to Fredericktown, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those who rely on public transportation or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and reliability of alternative transportation options.

* **Research:** Investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation providers.
* **Plan:** Plan for longer commute times, especially for appointments in Columbus.
* **Advocate:** Advocate for improved public transportation options and increased accessibility within the community.
* **Consider:** Evaluate proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of specialized medical services.

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Fredericktown is a dynamic measure, subject to change as transportation infrastructure and healthcare services evolve. Continuous monitoring and community engagement are essential to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.