The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43756, Mcconnelsville, Ohio is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
58.52 percent of residents in 43756 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.
When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 24.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 23.55 miles from the area.
Health Scores in 43756, Mcconnelsville, Ohio
Overall Health Score | 4 |
---|---|
People Score | 18 |
Provider Score | 7 |
Hospital Score | 53 |
Travel Score | 18 |
Housholds with Cars (%) | 43756 | Mcconnelsville | Ohio |
---|---|---|---|
No Cars | 0.88 | 0.88 | 3.02 |
1 Car | 22.09 | 22.09 | 19.26 |
2 Cars | 32.23 | 32.23 | 42.63 |
3 or More Cars | 44.81 | 44.81 | 35.08 |
Vehicular Access in 43756, Mcconnelsville, Ohio
## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43756 (McConnelsville, Ohio)
The overall health score for residents of McConnelsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43756) is significantly influenced by their ability to access healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation infrastructure and available options, offering a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to McConnelsville, as healthcare access is a fundamental determinant of quality of life.
The primary challenge for healthcare access in 43756 stems from its rural location. McConnelsville, the county seat of Morgan County, is surrounded by rolling hills and farmlands, making transportation a critical factor. The availability and efficiency of transportation options directly impact residents' ability to receive timely medical attention, attend appointments, and manage chronic conditions.
**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**
The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in McConnelsville is personal vehicles. The road network, while generally well-maintained, presents some limitations. The primary route for travel to larger medical centers is typically via **Ohio State Route 78** which serves as the main artery connecting McConnelsville to the east and west. Traveling west on SR-78 leads to Zanesville, approximately 30 miles away, where residents can access Genesis Hospital. The drive, under ideal conditions, takes about 45 minutes.
Heading east on SR-78 provides access to Marietta, Ohio, and the Memorial Health System. The drive to Marietta is roughly 40 miles and takes approximately one hour. This route often involves navigating winding roads, especially closer to Marietta, which can be challenging during inclement weather.
**Ohio State Route 60**, another significant road, runs north-south through McConnelsville. While it offers an alternative route, it often adds travel time depending on the destination. Traveling south on SR-60 provides access to Athens, Ohio, and the OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital, a drive of approximately 45 miles, taking roughly an hour. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and safety.
The secondary roads, such as **County Road 10** and **County Road 4**, provide access to smaller towns and local medical facilities. However, these roads may be less well-maintained and could be more susceptible to closures during severe weather. These routes could be a viable option for residents who are looking for a smaller clinic or medical office, but they may not have the resources to treat complex medical issues.
**Public Transit Options**
Public transportation options in McConnelsville are limited. Morgan County offers a public transit system, but its services are primarily focused on providing transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The availability of regular routes and schedules is limited, and it may not be a reliable option for all residents, especially those with urgent medical needs.
The Morgan County Transit system is a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. This can pose a significant challenge for those requiring immediate medical attention or needing to attend frequent appointments. The system operates with ADA-compliant vehicles, offering accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the service area is limited, and it may not reach all areas within the county, further restricting healthcare access.
**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**
Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The reliability of these services for medical appointments is questionable, and the cost can be a barrier for some residents.
Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available in McConnelsville. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or require specialized medical assistance. Local ambulance services are typically dispatched by the county emergency services.
NEMT providers, such as **CareRide** or **LogistiCare**, offer transportation for non-emergency medical appointments. These services often require pre-booking and may have limited availability. They are often covered by Medicaid or other insurance programs, but the eligibility criteria and coverage can vary.
**Healthcare Access Considerations and Recommendations**
The overall health score for residents of 43756 is negatively impacted by the challenges in transportation. The rural location, limited public transit, and variable ride-share availability create significant barriers to healthcare access. Residents must rely heavily on personal vehicles, which can be problematic for those without access to a car, those with mobility issues, or those unable to drive.
For individuals considering moving to McConnelsville, it is crucial to assess their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the drive times to healthcare facilities and the reliability of available transportation options.
To improve the overall health score, several recommendations are offered. Expanding public transit services, including more frequent routes and extended service areas, would significantly improve healthcare access. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Promoting telehealth services and encouraging the development of local healthcare facilities, such as clinics or urgent care centers, would reduce the need for long-distance travel.
Furthermore, community initiatives to support carpooling or volunteer driver programs could provide additional transportation options for residents in need. Addressing the infrastructure of the road network, especially during winter months, would improve safety and reduce travel times.
By addressing these transportation challenges and implementing these recommendations, McConnelsville can improve healthcare access for its residents, ultimately leading to a higher overall health score and a better quality of life for all. This focus on transportation is a critical element in creating a healthy community.
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