43725, Cambridge, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43725, Cambridge, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.97 percent of residents in 43725 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center with a distance of 1.11 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43725 (Cambridge, Ohio)

The pursuit of optimal health is intrinsically linked to accessible healthcare. For residents of ZIP Code 43725, encompassing Cambridge, Ohio, this access hinges on the availability and efficiency of transportation. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining the various transportation options available for accessing healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare commute landscape for individuals contemplating moving to Cambridge or seeking to optimize their healthcare access.

The primary challenge for healthcare access in Cambridge, Ohio, is its rural setting. While the city offers essential services, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger urban centers. This geographical reality significantly influences the "Overall Health Score," highlighting the importance of reliable transportation.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The most prevalent mode of transportation for healthcare access in 43725 is the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this method depends heavily on the destination and the prevailing traffic conditions. The primary roadways impacting healthcare access include Interstate 70 (I-70), Ohio Route 22, and Ohio Route 40.

For basic medical needs, residents can access the local facilities, including Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center (SEORMC), located within Cambridge. Drive times to SEORMC are generally short, typically under 10 minutes, depending on the starting point within the ZIP code and the volume of traffic.

However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel to larger hospitals in cities like Zanesville (Genesis Hospital), Columbus (Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center), or Wheeling, West Virginia (WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital). Travel to Zanesville via I-70 typically takes around 45 minutes, barring significant traffic delays. Columbus, a more significant healthcare hub, is approximately a 90-minute drive via I-70, a journey that can be significantly impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours. Wheeling, West Virginia, is approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive.

The condition of these roadways and the potential for seasonal weather disruptions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and, consequently, healthcare access. This is a critical consideration when assessing the "Overall Health Score" for residents of 43725.

**Public Transit:**

Public transportation options in Cambridge are limited but present. The Southeastern Ohio Transportation Agency (SEOTA) provides bus service within Guernsey County, including Cambridge. However, the routes and frequency of service may not always align with the specific needs of healthcare appointments.

SEOTA operates several routes, but their coverage and frequency are limited, with routes and schedules subject to change. While SEOTA buses are ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, the routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities, potentially requiring transfers or additional walking.

The reliance on public transit for healthcare access in 43725 is therefore, limited. Residents relying on public transit may face longer travel times, potential delays, and the need for careful planning to accommodate appointment schedules.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Cambridge, but their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services, such as MedTransport and other local providers, offer transportation for medical appointments, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, these services often require pre-booking and may have associated costs that can impact the overall affordability of healthcare access.

The reliability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial considerations when evaluating the "Overall Health Score."

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 43725 reflects a mixed picture. While local healthcare facilities provide essential services, access to specialized care often necessitates travel. The reliance on personal vehicles, with the associated drive times and potential for traffic delays, presents a challenge. The limited public transit options and the potential for limited availability of ride-sharing services further complicate the picture.

The "Overall Health Score" would be higher if there were more frequent and direct public transit routes to regional healthcare hubs, a more robust presence of ride-sharing services, and greater affordability of medical transport options.

For individuals considering moving to Cambridge, Ohio, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation requirements is crucial. Those who require specialized care or rely on public transportation should carefully evaluate the potential challenges of healthcare access.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize personal vehicle maintenance:** Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition and regularly serviced to minimize the risk of breakdowns.
* **Explore ride-sharing options:** Familiarize yourself with the availability and cost of ride-sharing services in the area.
* **Investigate medical transport options:** Research medical transport services and determine their availability and cost.
* **Plan appointments strategically:** Schedule appointments during off-peak hours to minimize traffic delays.
* **Advocate for improved public transit:** Support initiatives that seek to improve public transit routes and frequency.

By carefully considering these factors and proactively planning for healthcare access, residents of 43725 can improve their "Overall Health Score" and ensure they receive the care they need. The challenges of transportation in a rural setting are real, but with careful planning and awareness, residents can navigate these challenges effectively. The future of healthcare access in Cambridge depends on a collaborative effort between residents, healthcare providers, and transportation agencies to improve the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare services.