43135, Laurelville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43135, Laurelville, Ohio is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

22.67 percent of residents in 43135 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berger Hospital with a distance of 15.15 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43135 (Laurelville, Ohio)**

Considering a move to Laurelville, Ohio (ZIP code 43135)? Understanding the area's healthcare access is crucial. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options available for reaching medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport. This score aims to illuminate the practicalities of healthcare access, helping prospective residents make informed decisions about their well-being.

Laurelville, a charming village nestled in Hocking County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The rural setting, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, often translates to longer travel times for medical appointments. This write-up will dissect the available transportation options, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility for residents of 43135.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation in Laurelville is the personal vehicle. The road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates drive times to healthcare providers. The most direct route to the nearest hospitals typically involves navigating state routes and county roads.

For instance, accessing the Hocking Valley Community Hospital in Logan, Ohio, a common destination for residents, requires traveling east on State Route 56. This route, a two-lane highway, offers a relatively direct connection, but traffic and weather conditions can significantly impact travel time. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, accessing facilities in Lancaster, Ohio, such as the Fairfield Medical Center, necessitates traveling north on State Route 33. This route, a major thoroughfare, provides a faster connection, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend the commute. The drive time to Lancaster averages around 30-45 minutes.

The condition of these roads, particularly during winter months, can pose a significant challenge. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to necessary medical care.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Laurelville are limited. Hocking Athens-Perry Community Action (HAPCAP) provides a demand-response transportation service. While not a fixed-route bus system, HAPCAP offers door-to-door transportation within Hocking County and to destinations in surrounding counties, including Fairfield County.

This service, while providing a vital link for those without personal vehicles, requires advance booking and is subject to availability. The service operates Monday through Friday and may have limited weekend hours. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features are available for riders with mobility limitations. Passengers should inquire about specific accommodations when booking.

The reliance on demand-response services can add significant time to a healthcare commute. The need to schedule rides in advance and accommodate multiple pick-ups and drop-offs can make public transit a less convenient option than driving, especially for time-sensitive medical appointments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is less consistent than in urban centers. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs is, therefore, not always reliable.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available. These services cater to individuals who require transportation to medical appointments but do not need an ambulance. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides and can be a viable option for those who cannot drive or do not have access to other forms of transportation.

Medical transport providers operating in the region include companies specializing in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport. These services are essential for individuals with mobility impairments or those requiring specialized medical assistance during transit.

**Healthcare Access and Considerations**

The availability of healthcare services within Laurelville itself is limited. Residents typically need to travel to nearby towns and cities for specialized care. This reliance on external healthcare providers emphasizes the importance of accessible transportation options.

For those considering moving to Laurelville, the "Overall Health Score" reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, and the variability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The score is not a single number but a composite assessment. It acknowledges the challenges of rural healthcare access while highlighting the existing resources. The score emphasizes the importance of planning for healthcare needs, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

The overall score is influenced by the need to travel outside of the village for healthcare. This necessitates careful consideration of transportation options, including the reliability of personal vehicles, the availability of public transit, and the potential need for ride-sharing or medical transport services.

**Conclusion**

For residents of ZIP code 43135, healthcare access is a multifaceted issue. While the area offers a tranquil setting, the rural nature of Laurelville presents transportation challenges. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the need to navigate drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and the available transportation options. Planning for healthcare appointments, considering potential travel delays, and exploring alternative transportation solutions are essential for ensuring timely and reliable access to medical care. The ability to adapt to these transportation challenges is critical for maintaining overall health and well-being in Laurelville.