43137, Lockbourne, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43137, Lockbourne, Ohio is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.23 percent of residents in 43137 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.86 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Diley Ridge Medical Center with a distance of 10.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43137 (Lockbourne, Ohio)

This assessment delves into the intricate relationship between transportation and healthcare access within ZIP code 43137, encompassing Lockbourne, Ohio. It aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" for residents, considering various transportation options and their impact on accessing vital medical services. The score will reflect the ease or difficulty of reaching healthcare facilities, thereby influencing the overall well-being of those residing in this community. This is especially pertinent for individuals considering moving to Lockbourne, as transportation infrastructure significantly shapes their ability to maintain optimal health.

The primary challenge for residents of 43137 lies in its relative isolation. Lockbourne, while offering a tranquil suburban environment, is not densely populated and relies heavily on personal vehicles for mobility. Public transportation options are limited, and the availability of ride-sharing services can be inconsistent. This transportation landscape directly impacts healthcare access, potentially creating barriers for those without reliable personal transportation or those facing mobility limitations.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 43137 is the automobile. Residents primarily rely on driving to reach medical facilities. The major thoroughfare serving the area is US-23, which provides relatively direct access to Columbus and its surrounding suburbs. The drive time to major hospitals and specialist clinics is a crucial factor in determining the "Overall Health Score."

For instance, the drive to OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, a Level I trauma center in downtown Columbus, typically takes between 25 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This commute involves navigating US-23 and potentially I-70, a major interstate known for congestion during peak hours. Similarly, the drive to Mount Carmel Grove City, a hospital located closer to Lockbourne, averages 15 to 25 minutes via US-23 and then onto either Grove City Road or Stringtown Road.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities located in Grove City or Obetz offer shorter drive times, typically under 15 minutes, providing more immediate healthcare options for minor ailments. However, specialized care, such as oncology or cardiology, often necessitates longer commutes to Columbus-based hospitals. The reliability of these drive times is also impacted by weather conditions, which can significantly increase travel duration during winter months.

**Public Transit Evaluation:**

Public transportation options in 43137 are limited. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) provides some service, but routes are infrequent and primarily focus on connecting Lockbourne to Columbus. The primary route serving the area is likely Route 10, which runs along US-23. However, service frequency can be low, especially during evenings and weekends, making it less viable for urgent medical needs or appointments outside typical business hours.

Furthermore, the accessibility of COTA routes for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. COTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by providing accessible buses and offering paratransit services (like COTA Plus) for those unable to use fixed-route buses. However, the wait times for paratransit services can be lengthy, and the service area may be limited, potentially hindering access to healthcare facilities outside of Columbus. The availability of ADA-compliant features on buses and at bus stops is essential to ensure equitable access for all residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Assessment:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 43137 area, but their reliability and cost can fluctuate. Demand-based pricing, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability, can make these services expensive, especially for frequent medical appointments. The availability of ride-sharing services also depends on the time of day and the overall demand in the area.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by MedStar or CareRide, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often cater to patients requiring assistance with mobility or those needing transportation to and from dialysis appointments or other recurring treatments. While these services offer a valuable resource, their cost can be substantial, and the need for advance booking can pose challenges for urgent medical situations.

**Healthcare Facility Proximity and Availability:**

The "Overall Health Score" is also influenced by the proximity and availability of healthcare facilities within and around 43137. The presence of local clinics, urgent care centers, and pharmacies can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for routine medical needs. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, dermatologists, and oncologists, within a reasonable driving distance is also crucial.

The quality of healthcare providers, including their acceptance of various insurance plans and their ability to provide culturally competent care, further impacts the "Overall Health Score." The ability to schedule appointments in a timely manner and the availability of after-hours care options are also essential considerations.

**Overall Health Score Calculation and Implications:**

Based on the analysis of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and healthcare facility proximity, an "Overall Health Score" for 43137 can be derived. This score will reflect the ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare services, ranging from excellent to poor. The factors considered will be weighted based on their relative importance. For instance, drive times to major hospitals will carry a higher weight than the frequency of public transit routes.

A low "Overall Health Score" suggests that residents of 43137 may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare. This can lead to delayed medical care, increased healthcare costs, and poorer health outcomes. Individuals considering moving to Lockbourne should carefully evaluate the transportation options and healthcare resources available to them, particularly if they have pre-existing medical conditions or mobility limitations.

Conversely, a high "Overall Health Score" indicates that residents have relatively easy access to healthcare, with multiple transportation options and a variety of medical facilities within a reasonable distance. This can contribute to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving the "Overall Health Score" for 43137 requires a multi-faceted approach. Increasing the frequency and coverage of COTA routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, would significantly improve healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Promoting the development of local clinics and urgent care facilities would reduce drive times and improve access to routine medical care. Encouraging the recruitment of specialists to serve the area would eliminate the need for long commutes to Columbus-based hospitals. Finally, providing educational resources on healthcare access and transportation options can empower residents to make informed decisions about their health.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for 43137 is directly tied to the availability and accessibility of transportation options and the proximity of healthcare facilities. While the area offers a desirable suburban lifestyle, the limitations in transportation infrastructure present challenges to healthcare access. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public transit, ride-sharing partnerships, and healthcare facility development is crucial to improving the health and well-being of the residents of Lockbourne, Ohio. The ability to readily access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of a healthy community, and its importance cannot be overstated for those considering making 43137 their home.