43144, Murray City, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43144, Murray City, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.83 percent of residents in 43144 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth O'Bleness Hospital with a distance of 12.90 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43144

The health and well-being of residents in Murray City, Ohio (ZIP code 43144), are inextricably linked to their ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an overall health score, evaluating the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities, considering various modes and their associated challenges. Understanding these factors is crucial for current residents and those considering **moving to Murray City**, as they significantly impact the quality of life and overall health outcomes.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in 43144 is the time and effort required to reach medical providers. The area is relatively rural, meaning residents often rely on personal vehicles. Drive times, the most common mode of **transportation**, become a critical metric.

Driving to the nearest hospital, Hocking Valley Community Hospital in Logan, Ohio, typically takes approximately 20-25 minutes. The route primarily involves navigating State Route 33, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near Logan. This drive, though manageable, can be a deterrent for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Specialist care necessitates longer journeys. Accessing specialists in Athens, Ohio, requires a drive of around 45-60 minutes, primarily via State Route 33. This route can be subject to weather-related delays, especially during winter months. Further, the drive to Columbus, Ohio, a major medical hub, can stretch to 1.5 to 2 hours, primarily utilizing US-33 and Interstate 70. These longer drives pose significant challenges, impacting the overall health score.

Public **transportation** options in 43144 are limited. The Hocking Athens Perry Community Action Program (HAPCAP) offers a demand-response transit service. While this service provides a lifeline for some, it is not a regularly scheduled route. Riders must schedule trips in advance, and availability can be limited, especially for same-day appointments. This service may have limited ADA accessibility features, which must be confirmed directly with HAPCAP.

Furthermore, the lack of readily available public **transportation** significantly impacts the health score. The absence of a robust public transit system disproportionately affects those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities. This limited access can lead to delayed or missed appointments, exacerbating health issues and increasing healthcare costs in the long run.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas. Surge pricing, common during peak hours or periods of high demand, can make these services unaffordable for some. The cost of ride-sharing, coupled with the travel time, adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transport services, like Med-Ride, provide specialized transportation for patients needing assistance. These services offer door-to-door transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, they are often more expensive than other options and require pre-booking. This specialized service is essential for some residents, but its cost and scheduling requirements must be considered when assessing overall healthcare access.

The availability of local healthcare providers within 43144 also influences the health score. While Murray City has some primary care providers, specialized medical services are largely unavailable. This necessitates travel to Logan, Athens, or Columbus for specialized care, compounding the **transportation** challenges.

The overall health score for 43144 is negatively impacted by the limited **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of robust public **transportation**, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers. The drive times to specialists and major medical centers further exacerbate these challenges.

The impact of these **transportation** limitations extends beyond the physical act of getting to appointments. It affects the ability to manage chronic conditions, access preventative care, and respond promptly to medical emergencies. The stress and financial burden associated with long commutes can also negatively impact mental health and overall well-being.

For those **moving to Murray City**, understanding these **transportation** and **healthcare access** challenges is crucial. It is vital to consider the impact on daily life, including the ability to attend appointments, manage medication refills, and access emergency care.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of community resources. The presence of support groups, community health programs, and volunteer services can help mitigate some of the challenges associated with limited healthcare access. These resources can provide assistance with **transportation**, appointment scheduling, and medication management.

The future of healthcare access in 43144 depends on several factors. Improving public **transportation** options, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and attracting more healthcare providers to the area could significantly improve the health score. Investing in telehealth services can also help bridge the gap, providing access to remote consultations and monitoring.

Furthermore, promoting community awareness and education regarding available resources is essential. Educating residents about their options, including **transportation** assistance programs and financial aid for medical expenses, can empower them to navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 43144 is moderate, primarily due to the **transportation** challenges. While the area offers some access to primary care, the need to travel for specialist care and the limited public **transportation** options create significant barriers. Residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles or navigate the complexities of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Improving **healthcare access** in 43144 requires a multifaceted approach, including enhancing **transportation** options, attracting more healthcare providers, and promoting community resources. This holistic approach is crucial for improving the health and well-being of all residents, especially those **moving to Murray City**.