43102, Amanda, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43102, Amanda, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.56 percent of residents in 43102 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berger Hospital with a distance of 10.22 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43102 (Amanda, Ohio)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Amanda, Ohio (ZIP Code 43102) requires a multifaceted examination. We must consider the ease with which individuals can access necessary healthcare services, focusing on transportation options and their impact on overall well-being. This analysis explores various modes of transportation, drive times, and available resources, painting a picture of healthcare access in this community.

Amanda, nestled in Fairfield County, presents a unique challenge. While a charming rural setting often offers a slower pace of life, it can also complicate healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles is high, and the availability of alternative transportation options is limited. This can significantly impact residents, especially those with mobility issues, limited financial resources, or those who cannot drive.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary roadways serving Amanda are crucial to healthcare access. Route 22, a major east-west artery, provides a direct link to Lancaster, the county seat and home to Fairfield Medical Center. A typical drive to the hospital from Amanda via Route 22 is approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey is generally straightforward, offering relatively clear and well-maintained roads.

However, this drive time can be extended during peak hours or in inclement weather. Other local roads, such as Amanda-Baltimore Road and Coonpath Road, offer alternative routes but can be slower and less direct. These roads are vital for accessing local physician offices and urgent care facilities.

**Public Transportation Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Amanda are severely limited, presenting a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents. The Fairfield County Transportation (FCT) provides demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service operates within Fairfield County and can transport individuals to medical appointments. However, the scheduling process, limited operating hours, and potential for longer wait times can be inconvenient and stressful.

FCT offers ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall availability of public transit is insufficient to meet the needs of all residents, particularly those requiring frequent medical appointments or emergency care. The lack of readily available public transportation significantly impacts the overall health score.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Amanda, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent. Availability often depends on driver presence and demand, making them less dependable for scheduled medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for those with limited incomes.

Medical transportation services are available for individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services typically cater to those needing non-emergency medical transport, such as transportation to dialysis appointments or physical therapy. However, these services are often more expensive than other options and may require prior authorization from insurance providers.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare facilities in and around Amanda is a critical factor in the overall health score. Fairfield Medical Center in Lancaster offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, specialized medical treatments, and surgical procedures. Several physician offices and clinics are located in Amanda and surrounding areas, providing primary care and specialized medical services.

However, the concentration of healthcare resources in Lancaster necessitates travel for many residents. This reliance on transportation, particularly personal vehicles, can create challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, those without access to a car, or those who are unable to drive.

**Impact on Overall Health:**

The limitations in transportation options directly impact the overall health score of Amanda residents. Difficulty accessing healthcare can lead to delayed diagnoses, reduced adherence to treatment plans, and poorer health outcomes. Individuals may postpone or forgo necessary medical care due to transportation barriers, exacerbating existing health conditions.

The lack of convenient and affordable transportation options also contributes to increased stress and anxiety, particularly for those with chronic illnesses or those who require frequent medical appointments. The burden of arranging transportation can be overwhelming, impacting their quality of life and overall well-being.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the overall health score, several strategies should be considered. Expanding and enhancing public transportation options is crucial. This could involve increasing the frequency and coverage of the FCT service, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies, or establishing dedicated transportation services for medical appointments.

Promoting community-based initiatives that address transportation barriers is also essential. This could include volunteer driver programs, carpooling initiatives, or collaborations with local organizations to provide transportation assistance.

Furthermore, increasing the availability of healthcare services within Amanda would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances. This could involve attracting additional physician practices, expanding the services offered by existing clinics, or establishing telehealth programs to provide remote medical consultations.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of Amanda, Ohio (ZIP Code 43102) is significantly influenced by the challenges associated with transportation and healthcare access. While the community benefits from its proximity to Fairfield Medical Center and local healthcare providers, the limitations in public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport create barriers to healthcare access for many residents.

Addressing these transportation challenges through enhanced public transit, community-based initiatives, and expanded healthcare services is essential to improve the overall health score and ensure that all residents can access the healthcare they need. The ability to move to Amanda and access healthcare should be a priority for the community.