43235, Columbus, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43235, Columbus, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.41 percent of residents in 43235 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Midwest Physician Anesthesia Services, Inc. with a distance of 4.76 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43235

Understanding healthcare access is crucial when considering a move, especially to a vibrant city like Columbus, Ohio. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of ZIP Code 43235, focusing on the transportation landscape that connects them to essential medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, offering a comprehensive view of healthcare accessibility.

ZIP Code 43235, primarily encompassing the suburb of Westerville, presents a mixed bag of healthcare access. While offering its own local medical facilities, residents often need to travel to Columbus for specialized care. The "Overall Health Score" reflects this reality, acknowledging both the convenience of local options and the potential challenges of navigating the city's transportation network.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The primary arteries for accessing healthcare from 43235 are I-270, the outerbelt, and US-62. These highways provide relatively quick routes to major hospitals and medical centers in Columbus. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

For example, a trip to OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, a major healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-30 minutes during off-peak hours. However, during rush hour, this commute can easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour, impacting the "Overall Health Score." Similarly, access to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, another major institution, relies on navigating I-270 and potentially the congested SR-315.

Smaller, local clinics and urgent care facilities within Westerville itself are readily accessible, often within a 10-15 minute drive. This proximity contributes positively to the "Overall Health Score" for routine medical needs. However, the availability of specialized care within the immediate vicinity is limited, necessitating travel to Columbus.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) provides public transportation options in the 43235 area. While the bus network offers a degree of healthcare access, it presents limitations. Route 34, for instance, connects Westerville to downtown Columbus, passing near several medical facilities. However, travel times on public transit are considerably longer than driving, often doubling or tripling the commute.

Furthermore, the frequency of buses, especially during evenings and weekends, may be less than ideal, posing challenges for those needing urgent care or appointments outside standard business hours. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges these limitations, recognizing that public transit is a viable option for some but not a universally convenient solution.

COTA strives to improve accessibility. Many buses are ADA-compliant, featuring ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This commitment to inclusivity positively influences the "Overall Health Score" for those relying on public transit. However, the overall network coverage in the 43235 area is less extensive than in more central Columbus locations, limiting the ease of access to healthcare facilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another layer of healthcare access. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving or public transit, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The availability of these services in 43235 is generally good, with wait times typically reasonable.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. This financial consideration impacts the "Overall Health Score," particularly for individuals with limited incomes or those needing regular medical care.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide and First Transit, cater specifically to individuals with mobility challenges or other medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with specialized vehicles and trained personnel. While these services provide a crucial lifeline for some, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. The availability of medical transport services in 43235 contributes positively to the "Overall Health Score" for those who require it, but the associated costs and scheduling complexities are also factored in.

**Overall Health Score Summary:**

The "Overall Health Score" for residents of 43235 reflects a nuanced picture. The area benefits from the proximity of local clinics and urgent care facilities, providing convenient access for routine medical needs. However, accessing specialized care often necessitates travel to Columbus, increasing commute times and potentially adding stress.

Drive times are generally manageable, particularly during off-peak hours, with I-270 and US-62 providing efficient routes. However, traffic congestion can significantly impact these times. Public transit, while available, is less convenient than driving, with longer travel times and potentially limited frequency. Ride-sharing services offer a valuable alternative, but the cost can be a barrier for some. Medical transport services provide essential support for individuals with mobility challenges, but their cost and scheduling complexities must be considered.

**Moving to Columbus and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Columbus, understanding healthcare access is crucial. ZIP Code 43235 offers a blend of convenience and challenges. While local options exist, residents should factor in the travel time to access specialized care in Columbus. Assessing personal transportation needs and understanding the limitations of public transit are critical. Considering ride-sharing costs and the availability of medical transport services is also essential.

The "Overall Health Score" for 43235, therefore, is moderately positive. It reflects a community with good local access to primary care but with the need to navigate the city's transportation network for specialized medical needs. Prospective residents should carefully weigh these factors when making their relocation decisions, ensuring they can readily access the healthcare services they require. The ability to navigate the transportation infrastructure is key to healthcare access.