43157, Thurston, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43157, Thurston, Ohio is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.11 percent of residents in 43157 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fairfield Medical Center with a distance of 8.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43157 (Thurston, Ohio)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 43157, focusing on their access to healthcare facilities via various transportation methods. Understanding these factors is critical for residents' well-being, particularly those considering moving to Thurston, Ohio, or those already residing within its boundaries. The evaluation considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It aims to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility within this specific geographical area.

The health score will be presented in a narrative format, avoiding simple lists. This approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals seeking medical care in Thurston. The score will consider the geographical constraints, the available resources, and the overall impact on the community's health outcomes.

**Drive Times and Road Network:**

The primary mode of transportation for many residents of 43157 is the personal vehicle. The road network significantly impacts healthcare access. The major thoroughfare, **US-33**, serves as the primary artery, providing a direct route to healthcare facilities in Lancaster and Columbus. Travel times vary depending on the destination and time of day. During peak hours, traffic congestion on US-33 can significantly increase commute times, particularly near the intersection with **OH-188**.

Local roads, such as **Thurston Road** and **Lithopolis Road**, offer alternative routes, but these are often slower and less direct. These roads are frequently used by residents heading to local medical offices and urgent care facilities. The condition of these roads, including potholes and lack of adequate lighting, can further impact travel times and safety, especially during inclement weather.

A drive to the Fairfield Medical Center in Lancaster via US-33 typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This facility offers a comprehensive range of services, making it a primary destination for many residents. Commuting to Columbus for specialized care can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the specific location within the city and the prevailing traffic conditions.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in the 43157 ZIP code is limited. The primary provider of public transit services in the area is the Fairfield County Transportation. Their routes are designed to connect residents to key destinations, including medical facilities. However, the frequency of service is limited, particularly during evenings and weekends.

The primary route serving Thurston is the **Fairfield County Transportation Route 1**. This route connects Thurston to Lancaster, offering access to the Fairfield Medical Center. The service operates on a fixed-route schedule, with designated stops throughout the community. The buses are generally equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating areas, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency of service can pose a challenge for those needing frequent medical appointments.

The lack of direct public transit to Columbus further exacerbates the challenges of healthcare access for residents of 43157. Individuals needing specialized care in Columbus must often rely on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation, which can be costly and time-consuming.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 43157 ZIP code. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as MedRide and CareRide, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer door-to-door service and are equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services can be expensive, and advance booking is often required.

The availability of these services is a significant factor in the overall health score. While they provide a valuable option for some, their cost and availability limit their accessibility for many residents. The reliance on these services highlights the need for improved public transit options and affordable transportation solutions.

**Healthcare Access and Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 43157 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the transportation options present significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create barriers to accessing timely and affordable healthcare.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly to Columbus for specialized care, can be lengthy and impacted by traffic. The limited public transit options restrict access for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services further compounds these challenges, particularly for low-income residents.

The lack of easily accessible and affordable transportation can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, resulting in poorer health outcomes. This situation underscores the need for improved public transit infrastructure, expanded ride-sharing options, and subsidized medical transportation services to improve healthcare access for all residents of 43157.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

Several strategies can improve healthcare access in 43157. Expanding the frequency and reach of the Fairfield County Transportation system is crucial. This includes increasing the number of routes and extending service hours, particularly during evenings and weekends. Collaboration with ride-sharing services to provide discounted transportation for medical appointments could also enhance accessibility.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and traffic management systems, can reduce drive times and improve safety. Promoting telehealth services can also reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for routine check-ups and follow-up care.

For those considering moving to Thurston, Ohio, it is essential to carefully assess the transportation options available and the potential impact on healthcare access. Understanding the limitations of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing, and the drive times to healthcare facilities is crucial for making an informed decision.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 43157 reflects the complex interplay of transportation infrastructure, public transit availability, and the cost of alternative transportation options. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the challenges associated with transportation create barriers to timely and affordable care. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public transit, ride-sharing programs, and infrastructure improvements is essential to improve the overall health and well-being of the community. The future of healthcare access in Thurston hinges on the ability to create a more accessible and equitable transportation system.