43786, Stafford, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43786, Stafford, Ohio is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.31 percent of residents in 43786 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 19.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43786

Welcome to Stafford, Ohio, ZIP Code 43786. This assessment delves into the critical aspect of healthcare access, specifically focusing on the transportation options available to residents. Understanding the ease with which you can reach medical facilities is paramount to overall well-being, especially when considering moving to Stafford. This report offers an "Overall Health Score" based on commute times, transportation infrastructure, and available services.

The Overall Health Score considers several factors, including the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, and the accessibility of these options for all residents. A higher score reflects better healthcare access, indicating shorter commute times, diverse transportation choices, and services catering to individuals with disabilities. Conversely, a lower score suggests potential challenges in reaching healthcare providers, potentially impacting health outcomes.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

Stafford, nestled in Noble County, presents a rural landscape, and the primary mode of transportation is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The commute to healthcare facilities, therefore, heavily relies on driving. The nearest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in neighboring towns, requiring residents to navigate the local road network.

For residents seeking comprehensive medical care, the drive to Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center in Cambridge, Ohio, becomes a primary destination. This journey typically involves using **State Route 147** and then connecting to **Interstate 77**. The drive, depending on traffic conditions, averages around 30 to 45 minutes. This time frame can significantly increase during peak hours or adverse weather conditions.

Another healthcare option is the Marietta Memorial Hospital in Marietta, Ohio. This trip involves a longer drive, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, primarily utilizing **State Route 7**. This route, while scenic, can be slower due to its winding nature and potential for traffic congestion.

Smaller clinics and doctor's offices are located in nearby towns like Caldwell, Ohio, and Woodsfield, Ohio. These destinations are accessible via **State Route 78** and **State Route 26**, respectively. Commute times to these facilities range from 20 to 40 minutes, offering more immediate healthcare options for certain needs.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation in the area is limited, which presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The availability of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a car.

The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) funds and oversees various public transportation programs. However, services in this rural area are not as frequent or comprehensive as in more urban environments. The availability of public transportation is a crucial factor when considering moving to Stafford.

The Noble County Transportation system offers limited services, primarily demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is often used for medical appointments, but availability can be restricted, and booking requires advanced planning. The system's ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance is essential for ensuring equal access to healthcare for all residents.

The lack of frequent and accessible public transit significantly impacts the Overall Health Score. Residents must rely on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or the limited public transportation options, which can lead to longer commute times and potentially delayed healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly popular in many areas. However, their presence in Stafford and the surrounding areas is limited. Availability is not guaranteed, and wait times can be substantial, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals who require assistance. These services are crucial for those with mobility limitations or medical conditions that prevent them from driving. However, these services can be costly and may require prior authorization from insurance companies.

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

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43786 is moderately impacted by the transportation infrastructure. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with limited public transit and ride-sharing options, presents challenges for residents, especially those without access to a car.

The drive times to healthcare facilities, while manageable for some, can be significant for others, especially those with mobility limitations or medical conditions requiring frequent appointments. The availability of medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but cost and availability can be barriers.

The Overall Health Score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers in the area. While the nearby towns offer a range of medical services, the distance and transportation challenges can impact access.

**Recommendations and Conclusion:**

Improving healthcare access in Stafford requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation services, particularly demand-response options, can significantly improve access for those without personal vehicles. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to increase service availability and reduce wait times would also be beneficial.

Furthermore, promoting telehealth services can help bridge the gap by providing remote consultations and monitoring, reducing the need for in-person visits. Encouraging the establishment of more healthcare facilities within the community or in nearby towns would also decrease commute times and improve access.

When considering moving to Stafford, prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Understanding the available options and potential challenges is essential for making an informed decision. The Overall Health Score reflects the importance of transportation in ensuring access to healthcare and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.