43762, New Concord, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43762, New Concord, Ohio is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.98 percent of residents in 43762 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.70 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43762 (New Concord, OH)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of New Concord, Ohio (ZIP Code 43762), focusing on the crucial aspect of **transportation** to and from medical facilities. We'll examine the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking timely and convenient **healthcare access**, considering various modes of travel. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families **moving to New Concord**, ensuring they understand the realities of navigating the local healthcare landscape.

ZIP Code 43762, a charming village nestled in southeastern Ohio, presents a unique set of circumstances. While offering a close-knit community and scenic surroundings, its rural location necessitates careful consideration of **transportation** options for medical appointments. The “Overall Health Score” is influenced by factors such as drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical **transportation**.

The primary route for accessing healthcare from New Concord is undoubtedly by personal vehicle. The most direct path to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Cambridge and Zanesville involves driving on Interstate 70 (I-70). This highway provides a relatively smooth and efficient journey, though traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can impact travel times. Route 40, also known as National Road, offers an alternative, often scenic, route to these same destinations. However, this road experiences more stop-and-go traffic and is often slower than I-70.

The drive to Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, the closest major medical facility, typically takes around 20-30 minutes via I-70, depending on traffic. Cambridge, home to Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center (SEORMC), is slightly closer, with a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes via I-70. These drive times are crucial, particularly in emergencies or for individuals with chronic conditions requiring frequent medical attention. Delays can significantly impact health outcomes.

Public **transportation** options in New Concord are limited. The Muskingum County Transit System (MCTS) offers a demand-response service within Muskingum County. This service operates on a reservation basis, requiring riders to schedule their trips in advance. While MCTS provides door-to-door service, its availability is restricted by operating hours and geographical coverage. Residents needing to access healthcare outside of Muskingum County will likely find MCTS inadequate for their needs. Accessibility features, such as wheelchair lifts, are available on MCTS vehicles, ensuring compliance with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) regulations.

Public **transportation** options are further complicated by the lack of direct routes to major medical facilities. Passengers may need to transfer between different routes or utilize a combination of public transit and other modes of **transportation**. This can significantly increase travel time and inconvenience, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those relying on public transit for all their needs. The lack of frequent service and limited operating hours further exacerbates the challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While these services offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles, particularly for those unable to drive, their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can also make these services expensive, further impacting **healthcare access** for low-income residents.

Specialized medical **transportation** services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher service. These services, often provided by companies like MedTrans, are essential for patients who cannot travel independently. However, these services can be costly and may require pre-booking, potentially delaying access to care. The availability of these services in New Concord is adequate, but the cost is a significant factor.

The “Overall Health Score” for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 43762 is moderately impacted by the limitations of **transportation** options. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Cambridge and Zanesville is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical **transportation** provides some relief, but cost and reliability remain concerns.

For those **moving to New Concord**, it is essential to consider these **transportation** factors when evaluating their healthcare needs. Individuals with chronic conditions or limited mobility should carefully assess their ability to access medical care. Researching the availability of ride-sharing services, understanding the MCTS system, and identifying medical **transportation** providers are crucial steps.

The “Overall Health Score” can be improved by increasing the frequency and reach of public **transportation**, particularly routes connecting New Concord to major medical centers. Supporting initiatives that promote ride-sharing services and expanding the availability of medical **transportation** options would also significantly enhance **healthcare access**. Furthermore, encouraging the development of telehealth services and community-based healthcare clinics within New Concord would reduce the need for extensive travel.

In conclusion, while New Concord offers a pleasant environment, its rural setting presents challenges to **healthcare access**. The “Overall Health Score” reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of **transportation** options. Residents must proactively assess their needs and explore available resources to ensure timely and convenient access to medical care. The community can further improve the score by advocating for enhanced **transportation** infrastructure and supporting initiatives that prioritize **healthcare access** for all residents.