43732, Cumberland, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43732, Cumberland, Ohio is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.17 percent of residents in 43732 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.76 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center with a distance of 12.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43732

Moving to Cumberland, Ohio, and settling within the 43732 ZIP code presents a unique set of circumstances when considering healthcare access. This assessment delves into the realities of transportation options, evaluating their impact on the overall health score for residents. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities related to accessing medical care in this rural environment.

The foundation of any health score hinges on the ease with which residents can reach necessary medical services. In 43732, this boils down to the availability and efficiency of transportation. The area is characterized by its rural nature, which inherently influences the available options. The primary mode of transportation for most residents is the personal vehicle.

Drive times are a critical factor. The nearest major medical facilities are located in Cambridge, Ohio, approximately 20-25 miles away. The primary route to Cambridge involves navigating **Ohio State Route 22** and **Interstate 77**. Traffic conditions are generally light, but weather, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times. The secondary route uses **Ohio State Route 146**, adding a few miles and potential travel time.

For those without personal vehicles, the options are limited. Public transportation, a cornerstone of healthcare access in urban areas, is less developed in this region. The Southeast Ohio Public Transportation (SEOPT) offers limited services, but coverage in the 43732 area is sparse. Routes are not explicitly detailed online, and frequency is often limited, potentially requiring significant planning and extended travel times. Furthermore, ADA accessibility is a crucial concern, and the availability of accessible vehicles needs to be confirmed with SEOPT directly.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Cambridge area but may not be readily accessible in the immediate vicinity of 43732. Availability depends on driver density, which is typically lower in rural areas. Relying on ride-sharing for routine medical appointments could prove unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather.

Medical transportation services offer a dedicated solution for those with specific needs. Companies such as MedTrans and other regional providers cater to non-emergency medical transport. These services typically require pre-booking and can involve significant costs. Their availability in 43732 needs to be verified, as coverage areas can vary.

The overall health score for residents of 43732 is significantly influenced by these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on those without them, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with financial constraints. The limited public transportation options exacerbate this challenge.

The impact on healthcare access is multifaceted. Delayed access to medical appointments can lead to worsening health conditions. Difficulty in reaching specialists or emergency care can have serious consequences. The stress associated with transportation logistics can also negatively affect mental well-being, further impacting overall health.

Furthermore, the cost of transportation adds to the financial burden of healthcare. Gas, vehicle maintenance, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services can become significant expenses, particularly for low-income individuals.

To improve the health score in 43732, several strategies could be considered. Expanding public transportation routes and increasing frequency would be a significant step. This would require investment and collaboration between local authorities and transportation providers. Ensuring ADA accessibility on all public transit options is crucial.

Promoting ride-sharing services through local partnerships could also improve accessibility. Incentivizing drivers to operate in the area or subsidizing rides for medical appointments could be beneficial.

Increasing the availability of medical transportation services and providing financial assistance for those in need would further enhance the health score.

Telehealth services offer another avenue to improve healthcare access. Expanding broadband internet access in the area would enable residents to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel.

Community initiatives can also play a role. Organizing volunteer transportation networks or carpooling programs could help residents reach medical appointments.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of 43732 is currently constrained by limited transportation options. While personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation, the lack of robust public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport services present significant challenges. Improving the health score requires a multi-pronged approach, including expanding public transportation, promoting ride-sharing, increasing the availability of medical transportation services, and leveraging telehealth solutions. These improvements will ultimately lead to better healthcare access and improved health outcomes for the residents of Cumberland, Ohio. The decision to move to Cumberland, Ohio, and the 43732 ZIP code must be weighed against the challenges of transportation and healthcare access.