43147, Pickerington, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43147, Pickerington, Ohio is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.26 percent of residents in 43147 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Diley Ridge Medical Center with a distance of 3.98 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43147 (Pickerington, Ohio)**

This report assesses the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 43147, focusing on the crucial element of *healthcare access* through various *transportation* options. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and specialized medical transport within and around Pickerington, Ohio, a key consideration for anyone *moving to Pickerington*. The score reflects the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services.

The foundation of healthcare access in 43147 rests on the road network. Driving is the primary mode of transportation for most residents. The major arteries include Interstate 70 (I-70), a critical east-west corridor, and State Route 256, a north-south thoroughfare that runs directly through Pickerington. These highways provide access to a wide range of healthcare facilities in Columbus and surrounding areas.

Drive times, however, vary depending on the destination and time of day. During peak rush hours, the commute on I-70 can become congested, particularly eastbound in the morning and westbound in the evening. Traffic on State Route 256 is generally less problematic, but local roads can experience delays. For example, reaching Mount Carmel East Hospital in Columbus from Pickerington, a major healthcare provider, can take between 20 to 40 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

The availability of public transit offers an alternative to driving, though its impact on healthcare access in 43147 is somewhat limited. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) provides bus service in the area. Route 32, the Pickerington/Eastland route, offers service along Refugee Road, providing a direct connection to Eastland Mall, a major transfer point for other COTA routes.

However, the frequency of Route 32, especially during off-peak hours and weekends, may be insufficient for some healthcare needs. Furthermore, the route doesn’t directly serve many of the major hospitals and medical centers in Columbus. Accessibility features, such as ramps and designated seating, are available on COTA buses to accommodate riders with disabilities, adhering to ADA standards.

Ride-share services, like Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible and potentially quicker alternative to public transit. These services are readily available in Pickerington and can provide door-to-door transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent visits or those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs. Several companies operate in the area, including MedTransport and FirstMed Transport. These services typically provide non-emergency medical transportation, such as to and from doctor's appointments, dialysis treatments, and physical therapy sessions. The cost of medical transport varies depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific service provider.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 43147 is moderate. While the road network provides good access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on driving can be problematic during peak hours. Public transit offers a limited alternative, and the availability of ride-share and medical transport services provides additional options, albeit at a cost.

When *moving to Pickerington*, it's crucial to consider the implications of commuting to healthcare. Residents should factor in potential drive times, the availability of public transit options, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport when planning their healthcare needs.

The quality of healthcare facilities in the region significantly impacts the overall health score. Columbus and the surrounding areas boast a diverse range of hospitals, clinics, and specialty practices. Mount Carmel East Hospital, mentioned earlier, is a comprehensive medical center. OhioHealth, another major healthcare provider, operates several facilities in the area, including OhioHealth Pickerington Medical Campus, which provides a range of services closer to home.

The presence of specialized healthcare services also contributes to the overall score. Residents of 43147 have access to a variety of specialists, including cardiologists, oncologists, and neurologists, through the healthcare facilities in Columbus. The availability of these specialized services reduces the need for residents to travel long distances for essential care.

The geographic distribution of healthcare facilities is another factor to consider. While Columbus offers a wide array of options, some residents may find it more convenient to access healthcare providers closer to home. OhioHealth Pickerington Medical Campus, for example, offers primary care, urgent care, and other services, reducing the need to travel to Columbus for routine medical needs.

The affordability of healthcare services also plays a role in the overall health score. The cost of healthcare, including doctor's visits, medications, and hospital stays, can be a significant burden for many residents. The availability of insurance coverage, including public programs like Medicare and Medicaid, can help to mitigate these costs.

Healthcare providers in the area accept a variety of insurance plans, but residents should verify that their insurance plan is accepted before scheduling appointments. The availability of financial assistance programs can also help to make healthcare more affordable for those who qualify.

The overall health score for healthcare access in 43147 is influenced by the availability of preventative care services. Access to primary care physicians, who can provide routine checkups, screenings, and vaccinations, is essential for maintaining good health. The OhioHealth Pickerington Medical Campus and other clinics in the area offer these services.

The availability of specialized preventative care services, such as mammograms and colonoscopies, also contributes to the overall score. These screenings can help to detect health problems early, when they are often more treatable. The presence of these services in the area reduces the need for residents to travel long distances for essential preventative care.

The quality of healthcare services is another critical factor in the overall health score. The hospitals and clinics in the area are staffed by experienced medical professionals and equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The quality of care provided by these facilities can significantly impact the health outcomes of residents.

The overall health score also considers the availability of mental health services. Access to mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for addressing mental health concerns. The availability of these services in the area is a key factor in the overall score.

The overall health score is a dynamic measure that can change over time. Factors such as the opening or closing of healthcare facilities, changes in public transit routes, and the availability of new ride-share services can all impact the score. It is essential for residents of 43147 to stay informed about changes in the healthcare landscape and to advocate for improvements in healthcare access.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in 43147 is moderate, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation and healthcare infrastructure. While the road network provides good access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on driving and the limitations of public transit can pose challenges. The availability of ride-share and medical transport services offers additional options, and the quality of healthcare facilities in the area is generally good. Residents should carefully consider these factors when assessing their healthcare needs and planning their lives in Pickerington, especially when *moving to Pickerington*.