43158, Union Furnace, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43158, Union Furnace, Ohio is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.52 percent of residents in 43158 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hocking Valley Community Hospital with a distance of 6.58 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Union Furnace, Ohio (ZIP Code 43158)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital resources, and in the serene village of Union Furnace, Ohio (ZIP code 43158), this includes readily available healthcare. Our assessment considers the practical realities of navigating to and from medical appointments, evaluating various transportation options and their impact on the overall well-being of residents. This "Overall Health Score" aims to provide a comprehensive picture, particularly for individuals considering **moving to Union Furnace**, highlighting the ease or difficulty of **healthcare access** in the context of available **transportation** infrastructure.

Union Furnace, nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, presents a unique challenge. While the community exudes a sense of tranquility, its relative isolation from major urban centers significantly influences its healthcare landscape. The primary hurdle is the distance to healthcare facilities, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles, and to a lesser extent, public transit and ride-sharing services. This geographic reality demands a thorough examination of the available transportation options and their inherent advantages and disadvantages.

The most common mode of transportation for residents of Union Furnace is undoubtedly the personal automobile. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are State Route 33 and State Route 56. Heading west on SR-56 will take you to Lancaster, Ohio, a town with several medical facilities, including the Fairfield Medical Center, which is the nearest hospital. The drive to Lancaster is approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within Union Furnace.

Traveling east on SR-33, residents can access Athens, Ohio, a larger town with a more extensive range of medical specialists and facilities. This journey, however, is significantly longer, averaging 40-50 minutes. The drive involves navigating winding roads and potential traffic, adding to the overall travel time and stress. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can further impact accessibility.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Athens County Transit System (ACTS) offers some services, but its routes and schedules are restricted. ACTS primarily serves Athens County, and its routes may not directly connect Union Furnace to Lancaster. The ACTS website details the routes and schedules. ADA accessibility is a feature of ACTS buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the infrequent service and limited coverage make it a less-than-ideal option for many residents, especially those with urgent medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent or reliable as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, their practicality for regular healthcare access in Union Furnace is questionable.

Medical transport services are another option, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several companies operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other options. The availability of these services and their coverage area should be confirmed with the providers.

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Union Furnace is influenced by several factors. The primary factor is the distance to healthcare facilities, coupled with the reliance on personal vehicles. While the drive times to Lancaster and Athens are manageable for many, they can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations, those without personal transportation, or those who are unable to drive. The limited public transportation options and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges.

The cost of transportation is another significant consideration. The expense of owning and maintaining a vehicle, coupled with the cost of fuel, can create a financial burden, particularly for low-income residents. The cost of ride-sharing services or medical transportation can also be prohibitive for some.

The weather conditions in southeastern Ohio can also impact healthcare access. During winter months, snow and ice can make driving hazardous, potentially delaying or preventing access to medical appointments. The availability of emergency services, such as ambulances, is crucial in these situations.

For individuals **moving to Union Furnace**, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Those with chronic medical conditions or frequent appointments should carefully consider the travel times and the availability of transportation options. Individuals who rely on public transportation or ride-sharing services may find it challenging to access the healthcare they need.

The community’s efforts to improve healthcare access are noteworthy. The Fairfield Medical Center in Lancaster is the primary hospital for Union Furnace residents. The hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics. The hospital also has a network of primary care physicians and specialists.

The Athens County Health Department also plays a role in providing healthcare services to the community. The health department offers a variety of programs and services, including immunizations, disease prevention, and health education. The health department also provides assistance to individuals who need help accessing healthcare services.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Union Furnace, Ohio (ZIP code 43158), is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities in Lancaster and Athens, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services create challenges. The cost of transportation and the potential impact of weather conditions further complicate the picture. For individuals considering **moving to Union Furnace**, a careful evaluation of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. The community’s efforts to improve healthcare access, such as the presence of Fairfield Medical Center and the services offered by the Athens County Health Department, are positive factors.