43152, South Bloomingville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43152, South Bloomingville, Ohio is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

27.02 percent of residents in 43152 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hocking Valley Community Hospital with a distance of 15.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43152

Assessing the overall health score for residents of South Bloomingville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43152) necessitates a deep dive into the multifaceted realm of healthcare access, with transportation acting as the crucial artery. This write-up explores the challenges and opportunities presented by the geographical realities of this rural community, offering insights into the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. Considering the pivotal role transportation plays in healthcare access, the score will reflect the availability, affordability, and convenience of options available.

South Bloomingville, nestled within Hocking County, presents a unique set of circumstances. Its rural character translates to longer distances to healthcare facilities compared to more urbanized areas. This geographical isolation significantly impacts the health score, as residents must navigate a transportation landscape that may be less developed than in metropolitan hubs. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation options is therefore paramount in determining the overall health of the community.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary roadways serving South Bloomingville are crucial to understanding healthcare access. Residents often rely on personal vehicles for transportation. The most direct route to the nearest significant medical facilities in Lancaster, Ohio, involves navigating **State Route 327** and then connecting to **US Route 33**. This drive, typically spanning approximately 30 miles, can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Alternatively, for those seeking care in Athens, Ohio, the journey entails traveling along **State Route 327** to **US Route 33** and then connecting to **State Route 56**. This route, while potentially offering access to a different network of healthcare providers, is similar in distance and travel time. These drive times, while manageable for some, can become significant barriers for those with mobility limitations, chronic illnesses, or without personal vehicles.

The condition of these roadways also plays a crucial role. The presence of potholes, poor lighting, and limited shoulder space can exacerbate travel times and increase the risk of accidents, further impacting healthcare access. Regular road maintenance and improvements are vital to ensuring safe and efficient travel to medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in 43152 are considerably limited. Hocking County does offer a public transit service, but its routes and schedules may not be ideally suited for frequent trips to healthcare facilities. Services like the Hocking Athens Perry Community Action Program (HAPCAP) provide transportation, including demand-response services, which require advance booking.

These services are often designed to serve the needs of the elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals. The availability of accessible vehicles, equipped with ramps and other features for individuals with disabilities, is a crucial factor in assessing the health score. The frequency of routes, the hours of operation, and the affordability of fares all contribute to the overall accessibility of public transit.

The lack of readily available public transit options presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This can lead to delayed or missed appointments, ultimately impacting their health outcomes. Expanding and improving public transit services would be a vital step in enhancing healthcare access for residents of South Bloomingville.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are often considered an alternative to public transit, but their availability in rural areas like 43152 can be inconsistent. The limited driver pool and the distance to larger population centers can result in longer wait times and higher fares, making ride-sharing an unreliable or unaffordable option for many.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies such as MedTrans or local providers may provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service, ensuring patients arrive safely and on time.

The cost of medical transportation, however, can be a significant barrier. Insurance coverage for these services varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can be substantial. The availability of medical transportation services and their affordability are crucial factors in determining the overall health score, especially for those with mobility limitations or chronic illnesses.

**Healthcare Access: The Destination**

The availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable distance is a fundamental aspect of the overall health score. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in Lancaster and Athens. The types of services offered, including primary care, specialist appointments, emergency care, and mental health services, all impact the overall health score.

The ability to schedule appointments promptly, the availability of specialists, and the quality of care provided are all essential considerations. The presence of telehealth services can also play a crucial role, offering remote consultations and monitoring, particularly for residents in rural areas with limited access to in-person care. The integration of telehealth services can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The overall health score for 43152 is inextricably linked to the ease with which residents can access healthcare. The challenges presented by the rural environment, including longer distances to healthcare facilities and limited transportation options, necessitate a comprehensive approach to improving healthcare access.

The score will be influenced by:

* **Drive times and road conditions:** The efficiency and safety of travel to healthcare facilities.
* **Public transit availability:** The frequency, accessibility, and affordability of public transportation options.
* **Ride-share and medical transport services:** The availability, cost, and reliability of these services.
* **Healthcare facility proximity and services:** The range of healthcare services available within a reasonable distance.
* **Telehealth integration:** The availability of remote healthcare options.

**Moving to South Bloomingville: A Balanced Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to South Bloomingville, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. While the area offers a tranquil and scenic environment, the challenges associated with accessing healthcare must be carefully considered.

Individuals with chronic health conditions or those who rely on frequent medical appointments should thoroughly assess the transportation options and their associated costs. Planning for potential transportation challenges and exploring alternative solutions, such as telehealth services or medical transportation, is essential.

The overall health score for 43152 reflects the complex interplay between geography, transportation, and healthcare access. By addressing the transportation challenges and investing in improved access to healthcare services, the community can significantly enhance the health and well-being of its residents. This holistic view is vital for prospective residents.