43731, Crooksville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43731, Crooksville, Ohio is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.70 percent of residents in 43731 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 17.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43731 (Crooksville, Ohio)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Crooksville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43731) requires a comprehensive examination of healthcare access, intricately linked to the available transportation options. This analysis delves into the realities of navigating to medical appointments, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation methods. The aim is to paint a vivid picture for potential residents contemplating moving to Crooksville, offering a realistic perspective on healthcare accessibility.

The primary challenge for Crooksville residents is its rural location. This remoteness significantly impacts healthcare access, primarily through increased travel times. The nearest hospitals and specialty clinics are situated in Zanesville, approximately 20 miles north, and in Athens, roughly 40 miles south. These distances translate into significant travel times, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions.

The most direct route to Zanesville typically involves traveling north on **Ohio State Route 60**, a two-lane highway that can experience congestion during rush hour. Alternatively, residents might utilize **Ohio State Route 93**, a more winding route that offers scenic views but can add to the overall travel time. The journey to Athens often requires a combination of **Ohio State Route 60** and **Ohio State Route 550**, a route that traverses through rolling hills and can be subject to delays.

Public transportation options in Crooksville are limited. The Muskingum County Transit Authority (MCTA) offers some services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, particularly in rural areas. The MCTA operates a demand-response system, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. This system can be challenging for those needing immediate medical attention or those with unpredictable appointment times. Furthermore, the MCTA's accessibility features, while present, may not fully accommodate all individuals with disabilities.

The lack of robust public transit underscores the dependence on personal vehicles for healthcare access. This reliance presents several potential barriers. The cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle, including fuel, insurance, and repairs, can be a significant financial burden, particularly for low-income individuals. Moreover, those who cannot drive due to age, disability, or other factors face considerable challenges.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Zanesville area, but their presence in Crooksville is less consistent. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability in rural areas. The cost of these services can also be substantial, potentially creating a barrier to healthcare access for some residents.

The overall health score for Crooksville, based on transportation and healthcare access, is consequently moderate. While the community has access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services create significant obstacles. This situation necessitates careful consideration for those contemplating moving to Crooksville, particularly individuals with chronic health conditions or those who lack reliable transportation.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, while not excessively long in terms of mileage, can be significantly impacted by traffic, weather, and road conditions. Residents must factor in these variables when planning medical appointments. The absence of readily available public transit and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further complicate the situation.

The availability of ADA-compliant transportation is crucial for individuals with disabilities. While the MCTA attempts to provide such services, their limited scope and potential scheduling difficulties warrant consideration. The need for accessible transportation extends beyond public transit; it also encompasses the availability of accessible vehicles through ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

The cost of healthcare access, including transportation expenses, can be a significant factor in determining the overall health score. The price of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and the fees associated with ride-sharing or medical transportation services can add up quickly, potentially impacting the affordability of healthcare.

The quality of healthcare available in Zanesville and Athens is generally good. However, the travel time to these facilities can create a barrier to accessing timely and appropriate care. This is especially critical in emergency situations, where every minute counts.

The health score also considers the availability of urgent care facilities and walk-in clinics in the immediate vicinity of Crooksville. The presence of these facilities can reduce the need for travel to hospitals for minor medical issues, thus improving healthcare access.

The availability of telehealth services is another factor to consider. Telehealth, or remote healthcare, can provide access to medical consultations and other services without the need for travel. The availability of reliable internet access is crucial for utilizing telehealth services.

The overall health score for Crooksville is also influenced by the community's demographics. The age distribution, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of chronic diseases all play a role in determining the healthcare needs of the population.

The availability of social support networks can also impact healthcare access. Family members, friends, and community organizations can assist with transportation, appointment scheduling, and other needs.

The Crooksville community can improve its overall health score by advocating for better public transit, encouraging the expansion of ride-sharing services, and supporting the development of telehealth infrastructure. Furthermore, promoting community-based initiatives that address transportation barriers and provide support to individuals with healthcare needs can significantly improve the situation.

Moving to Crooksville requires a realistic assessment of healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, the transportation challenges associated with accessing healthcare facilities must be carefully considered. Prospective residents should assess their own transportation needs, health conditions, and financial resources to determine if Crooksville is the right fit for their healthcare requirements.

In conclusion, the overall health score for Crooksville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43731) is moderate. While healthcare is accessible, the transportation challenges, including drive times, limited public transit, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, create significant obstacles. This analysis highlights the need for careful consideration for those considering moving to Crooksville, particularly those with healthcare needs, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and resource assessment.