43740, Gratiot, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43740, Gratiot, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.34 percent of residents in 43740 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 10.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43740

Understanding the ease with which residents of ZIP Code 43740 can access healthcare is paramount to assessing their overall health and well-being. This analysis delves into the intricacies of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility. The goal is to provide a clear, concise, and actionable understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing those seeking medical care in this rural Ohio community. This assessment is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Gratiot** and ensuring they can receive timely and appropriate medical attention.

ZIP Code 43740, encompassing the village of Gratiot and surrounding areas, presents a unique set of challenges regarding healthcare access. Its rural location necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents. The primary roadways facilitating travel are State Route 79 and State Route 660. These routes, while offering direct access to nearby towns and cities, can be subject to seasonal weather conditions, potentially impacting drive times and safety. Delays due to inclement weather, especially during winter months, can significantly affect travel to medical appointments, potentially exacerbating health issues.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in Zanesville, approximately a 20-30 minute drive via State Route 79. Depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the destination, this time can vary. Accessing more specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, might necessitate travel to larger cities like Columbus, which is a significantly longer journey, potentially exceeding an hour via I-70. These extended drive times can pose a considerable burden, especially for individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility.

Public transportation options are limited in ZIP Code 43740. The Muskingum County Transit System (MCTS) provides some services within the county, but routes and schedules may not be designed to meet the specific needs of residents in Gratiot. Riders would need to call and schedule rides, which may not be available on short notice. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and features is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Information regarding the specific routes serving the area, their frequency, and ADA accessibility should be readily available to residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed, and availability can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Ride-sharing services can be expensive, especially for longer distances, making them an impractical option for many residents. The reliability of these services, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions, must also be considered.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services include ambulances for emergencies and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for scheduled appointments. Several NEMT providers operate in the region, including MedStar Ambulance, and MedRide. These services typically require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The availability of these services, along with their associated costs and insurance coverage, is essential to understanding healthcare access.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43740 is significantly impacted by the limitations in **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, combined with potentially long drive times and limited public transit, creates challenges for residents. The lack of readily available and affordable ride-sharing services and the need to rely on specialized medical transport services further complicate the situation.

The accessibility of **healthcare access** is further complicated by the demographics of the area. A significant portion of the population may be elderly or have disabilities, increasing the need for accessible **transportation**. These individuals may face additional challenges in accessing medical care, requiring assistance with mobility, scheduling, and navigation.

The availability of healthcare providers within a reasonable distance is another crucial factor. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities in or near the area is essential. The lack of local healthcare options can further exacerbate the **transportation** challenges, forcing residents to travel longer distances for routine check-ups and specialized treatments.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43740 is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the challenges associated with **transportation**, including long drive times, limited public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport, create barriers to timely and convenient medical care. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including improving public transit options, promoting ride-sharing services, and expanding the availability of medical transport. Furthermore, increasing the number of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and specialists, would significantly improve the overall health score and enhance the quality of life for residents. For those **moving to Gratiot**, careful consideration of these factors is crucial to ensuring access to necessary medical care.