43026, Hilliard, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43026, Hilliard, Ohio is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.17 percent of residents in 43026 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Dublin Methodist Hospital with a distance of 5.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43026 (Hilliard, Ohio)

This comprehensive analysis evaluates the overall health score for residents of Hilliard, Ohio (ZIP Code 43026), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare services via various transportation modalities. The ability to reach medical facilities efficiently and affordably significantly impacts overall well-being. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. This is crucial information for anyone considering moving to Hilliard, as it directly influences their healthcare access.

Hilliard, a vibrant suburb of Columbus, enjoys a reputation for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent schools. However, the geographical distribution of healthcare providers and the transportation infrastructure significantly influence healthcare access for its residents. This analysis aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing medical care within and around the 43026 ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Hilliard residents is personal vehicles. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the road network and traffic conditions. Accessing healthcare facilities often involves navigating major thoroughfares like Interstate 270 (I-270), a crucial loop around Columbus. Commuting to hospitals and clinics on the east side of the city can be time-consuming, especially during peak hours. Other key roads include US Route 33, which provides access to the west side of Columbus and surrounding areas.

Driving to major hospitals like OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, located on the north side of Columbus, typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic on I-270. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, another major healthcare provider, is accessible via I-270 and typically requires a 25-40 minute drive. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities located closer to Hilliard, such as those along Cemetery Road or Fishinger Road, offer quicker access, often within a 10-15 minute drive. The condition of these roads, including potential for potholes or construction, can also impact travel times and add to the stress of seeking healthcare. This is an important consideration when evaluating the ease of healthcare access.

**Public Transportation Options:**

The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) provides public transportation services to Hilliard. While COTA offers a valuable alternative to driving, its reach and frequency can be a limiting factor for healthcare access. Several bus routes serve the 43026 ZIP code, including Route 21 (West Broad Street) and Route 22 (Hilliard-Rome). These routes connect Hilliard to downtown Columbus and other key destinations.

However, the frequency of these routes, especially during evenings and weekends, may not align with the urgent needs of healthcare appointments. Furthermore, the travel time via public transit can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding to the burden of seeking medical care. COTA's ADA-accessible buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities, a crucial aspect of ensuring equitable healthcare access. Prospective residents with mobility challenges should thoroughly investigate route schedules and accessibility features before moving to Hilliard.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient alternative to driving and public transit. Their availability in Hilliard is generally good, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources. The availability of ride-sharing can also fluctuate depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide or MedRide, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. While these services provide valuable assistance, they may require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. Considering the cost and availability of these services is essential when evaluating healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43026 is moderately positive. While Hilliard benefits from its proximity to major healthcare providers in Columbus, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges. Drive times can be significant, especially during peak hours. The availability of ride-sharing services offers a viable alternative, but cost and availability are factors to consider.

The presence of ADA-accessible public transit and specialized medical transport services enhances the accessibility for individuals with disabilities or those requiring specialized assistance. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements when considering a move to Hilliard.

**Recommendations:**

To improve the overall health score, several recommendations are pertinent. Enhancing the frequency and coverage of COTA bus routes, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, would significantly improve healthcare access for residents without personal vehicles. Promoting ride-sharing programs or subsidized transportation options for low-income individuals could also alleviate financial barriers.

Furthermore, increasing awareness of medical transport services and their availability would ensure that those with mobility limitations or specific medical needs can access healthcare without undue hardship. Continued investment in road infrastructure and traffic management strategies can also help reduce drive times and improve the overall efficiency of transportation.

Ultimately, the overall health score for healthcare access in Hilliard reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers good access to healthcare, improvements in public transportation, ride-sharing initiatives, and awareness of medical transport services would further enhance the well-being of its residents. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Hilliard, enabling informed decisions about their healthcare needs and transportation options.