43736, Fairview, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43736, Fairview, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.00 percent of residents in 43736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 5.19 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Fairview, Ohio (ZIP Code 43736)

Fairview, Ohio, nestled in the rolling hills of Guernsey County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access. This analysis, a "Overall Health Score" write-up, delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP Code 43736, factoring in transportation options, travel times, and the availability of services. For those contemplating moving to Fairview, understanding these dynamics is crucial for informed decision-making regarding their overall health and well-being.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in this rural area is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on their cars to navigate the network of highways and roads connecting them to medical facilities. The most direct route typically involves using **Interstate 77 (I-77)**, a major north-south artery that provides relatively quick access to larger cities like Cambridge and New Philadelphia, where more comprehensive healthcare options are available. However, even a short drive on I-77 can be impacted by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, potentially delaying or disrupting access to essential medical appointments.

From Fairview, the journey to Cambridge, the county seat and a regional hub for healthcare, often involves traveling on **State Route 22 (SR-22)**. This route, while generally well-maintained, is a two-lane road that can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near intersections. The drive time to Cambridge, approximately 15-20 minutes, can be significantly extended depending on traffic and weather. Furthermore, accessing healthcare facilities located south of Fairview might necessitate traveling on **State Route 149 (SR-149)**, a road that winds through the scenic countryside but can be prone to slower speeds due to its winding nature.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 43736 are limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Guernsey County Transit System (GCTS) offers some services, but the routes and schedules are often infrequent and primarily designed to serve the needs of the general population, not specifically healthcare access. GCTS does provide demand-response service, requiring advance booking, which may be suitable for scheduled appointments but less so for urgent medical needs. Details about specific routes and ADA accessibility features would need to be confirmed directly with GCTS. This limited public transit infrastructure emphasizes the importance of personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions for accessing healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, although their presence is not as pervasive as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for healthcare access requires careful planning and booking in advance, ensuring a reliable means of transportation to and from appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical visits, adding to the overall financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to cater to the needs of patients with mobility limitations or other special requirements, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and others may operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve door-to-door transportation, often utilizing vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be subject to availability and cost considerations. The availability of these services in Fairview and the surrounding areas is essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize other transportation options.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Fairview itself is also a critical factor. While the area may have local clinics or primary care physicians, the range of specialized medical services available is likely to be limited. Residents may need to travel to larger cities like Cambridge, New Philadelphia, or even further afield to access specialists, hospitals, and other advanced medical care. This necessitates longer commute times and increases the reliance on reliable transportation.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43736 is, therefore, influenced by a complex interplay of factors. The primary reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transportation options and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transportation, paints a picture of potential difficulties. The drive times, particularly to access specialized care, can be significant, and the availability of transportation services can be inconsistent.

Weather conditions also play a crucial role, particularly during the winter months. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous, delaying or preventing access to healthcare facilities. This further emphasizes the need for residents to be prepared for potential disruptions and to have contingency plans in place.

For those considering moving to Fairview, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is essential. Individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the practicality of accessing healthcare facilities given the prevailing transportation challenges.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Fairview, Ohio, can be improved through several strategies. Investing in expanding public transportation services, particularly those designed to cater to the needs of healthcare patients, would be a significant step forward. This could involve increasing the frequency of routes, expanding service areas, and improving accessibility features.

Supporting the growth of ride-sharing and medical transportation services is also crucial. This could involve providing incentives for these companies to operate in the area or partnering with local organizations to coordinate transportation services.

Finally, promoting telehealth services can help bridge the gap in healthcare access, particularly for those who face transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43736 highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. While Fairview offers a peaceful and scenic environment, the challenges associated with commuting to healthcare facilities should be carefully considered by those contemplating a move to the area. Proactive planning, awareness of available resources, and a willingness to adapt to the transportation realities are essential for maintaining good health and well-being in this rural Ohio community.