43738, Fultonham, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43738, Fultonham, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

24.53 percent of residents in 43738 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 10.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43738

Welcome to Fultonham, Ohio, ZIP code 43738. This analysis provides an overall health score based on the accessibility of healthcare services, specifically focusing on the transportation options available to residents. Understanding the ease of reaching medical care is crucial for anyone considering moving to Fultonham or for current residents seeking to optimize their health management. This report considers various transportation modes, drive times, and the availability of public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

The foundation of our assessment lies in understanding the geographic reality of Fultonham. Situated in a rural area, the community's healthcare access is largely dependent on personal vehicles. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in neighboring towns and cities, necessitating travel. The condition of the roads and the availability of alternative transportation options become critical factors in determining the overall health score.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary roadways serving Fultonham are State Route 751 and State Route 285. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to weather conditions, especially during the winter months. To reach the nearest hospital, Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, residents typically face a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route taken. This journey primarily involves navigating State Route 285 and then either State Route 146 or Interstate 70.

For specialized medical care, residents might need to travel further. Columbus, Ohio, offers a comprehensive range of specialists and hospitals, but the drive time can extend to over an hour, primarily utilizing Interstate 70. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier, particularly for those with mobility issues or chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments. The drive to Columbus involves navigating a busy interstate, adding to the stress and potential for delays.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

Public transportation options in Fultonham are limited. The Muskingum County Transit (MCT) offers some service, but its routes and schedules are designed to serve the broader county rather than providing frequent, direct connections to medical facilities. Currently, MCT does not have a dedicated route specifically serving Fultonham with direct access to healthcare facilities.

MCT operates on a demand-response basis, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. This system can be less convenient for urgent medical needs or spontaneous appointments. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial factor, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation. While MCT strives to offer accessible services, the availability of these vehicles may be limited, potentially impacting the health score for residents with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Zanesville area, and their presence offers an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in Fultonham itself might be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as MedStar Ambulance and other private ambulance companies, are available for emergency situations. These services are essential for urgent medical needs, but they are not a substitute for regular transportation to routine appointments. The cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score:**

The overall health score for Fultonham, 43738, reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor, making the health score vulnerable to issues such as vehicle maintenance costs, fuel prices, and the ability to drive. The limited public transit options and the potential for delays on the roads further impact the score.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers some relief, but their limitations and costs must be considered. The distance to specialized medical care in Columbus adds another layer of complexity. Considering these factors, the overall health score for transportation to healthcare in Fultonham is moderate.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the health score, several strategies can be implemented. Expanding the reach of MCT to include more direct routes to healthcare facilities would be beneficial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve accessibility.

Promoting community initiatives that support carpooling or shared rides to medical appointments could help reduce transportation costs and enhance social support. Encouraging the development of telehealth services, such as virtual consultations and remote monitoring, could reduce the need for frequent travel.

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Fultonham, Ohio, offers the charm of a rural community, but it is crucial to consider the implications for healthcare access. The transportation infrastructure and the availability of alternative transportation options are critical factors in determining the overall health score. While the community has access to healthcare, the distance to medical facilities and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration. By understanding the challenges and exploring potential solutions, residents can optimize their healthcare access and improve their overall well-being. The future of healthcare access in Fultonham depends on a collaborative approach, involving community members, healthcare providers, and transportation agencies, to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive timely and accessible medical care.