43074, Sunbury, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43074, Sunbury, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.15 percent of residents in 43074 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mount Carmel St Ann's with a distance of 11.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Sunbury, Ohio (ZIP Code 43074)

Sunbury, Ohio, a charming village nestled in Delaware County, offers a compelling blend of small-town charm and proximity to the amenities of the Columbus metropolitan area. For those considering moving to Sunbury, understanding the landscape of healthcare access is crucial. This comprehensive analysis, culminating in an "Overall Health Score," examines the transportation options available for residents of ZIP code 43074 to reach essential healthcare services. We'll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, providing a nuanced perspective on the ease with which residents can access medical care.

The foundation of healthcare access in Sunbury rests heavily on personal vehicle transportation. The primary arteries connecting Sunbury to healthcare facilities are US Route 36, State Route 37, and Interstate 71. Driving times to hospitals and specialty clinics vary depending on location and traffic conditions. Residents can expect a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes to reach facilities in Delaware, such as OhioHealth Delaware Medical Campus, or the nearby Grady Memorial Hospital. Columbus-based healthcare, including major hospitals like OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, typically requires a 30 to 45-minute commute, often involving travel on I-71.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times. Accidents or road closures on I-71, a major north-south corridor, can cause considerable delays. Therefore, residents should factor in potential travel time fluctuations when scheduling appointments. While the convenience of personal vehicles is undeniable, this reliance on driving necessitates careful consideration of factors like vehicle maintenance, fuel costs, and the physical ability to drive, particularly for elderly residents or those with mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in Sunbury are limited. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA), the primary public transit provider for the Columbus area, does not currently offer direct routes to Sunbury. Residents seeking to utilize public transit would need to rely on a combination of local services and potential transfers, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who cannot or prefer not to drive, limiting their healthcare access.

COTA's accessibility features, including wheelchair accessibility on all fixed-route buses, are commendable. However, the absence of direct routes to Sunbury diminishes the practical benefits of these features for residents of ZIP code 43074. The lack of public transportation options is a key factor influencing the overall health score, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation solution. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, potentially mitigating the limitations of personal vehicles and the absence of public transit. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services can vary depending on demand and time of day. However, ride-sharing offers a convenient option for those who do not drive or prefer not to drive, providing greater flexibility in accessing healthcare.

Medical transport services are available for individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services, often provided by companies like MedStar Ambulance, offer non-emergency and emergency transportation to healthcare facilities. Medical transport is particularly crucial for individuals with mobility limitations, those requiring specialized medical equipment, or those who are unable to travel independently. While these services are essential, they can be costly and may require advance scheduling, adding another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

The geographical distribution of healthcare facilities also impacts access. While Delaware offers a range of medical services, access to specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to Columbus. This geographic disparity underscores the importance of considering transportation options and travel times when evaluating healthcare access in Sunbury. The concentration of specialized medical services in Columbus highlights the need for reliable transportation to ensure residents can access the full spectrum of healthcare options.

The availability of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics in the immediate vicinity of Sunbury provides a valuable resource for immediate medical needs. These facilities offer convenient access to care for minor illnesses and injuries, reducing the need for travel to hospitals or emergency rooms for less serious conditions. This local availability contributes positively to the overall health score.

Telehealth services are increasingly playing a role in healthcare access. Many healthcare providers offer virtual consultations and remote monitoring services, allowing patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for residents of Sunbury, reducing the need for travel for routine appointments and follow-up care. The growth of telehealth services is a positive trend, enhancing healthcare access for residents.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Sunbury, Ohio (ZIP code 43074) reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit options, presents challenges for some residents. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative solutions, the costs and availability of these services can be barriers. The availability of local urgent care facilities and the increasing use of telehealth services contribute positively to the score.

**Overall Health Score:** 6.5/10

**Justification:**

The score reflects the relative ease of access to healthcare for most residents who can drive. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential for traffic delays, and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transport services negatively impact the score, particularly for vulnerable populations. The score is buoyed by the presence of local urgent care facilities and the growing availability of telehealth services. Moving to Sunbury requires careful consideration of these factors to ensure healthcare access aligns with individual needs and circumstances.