43793, Woodsfield, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43793, Woodsfield, Ohio is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.44 percent of residents in 43793 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 17.22 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Woodsfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 43793)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Woodsfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 43793) requires a deep dive into the intricate web of **transportation** options available to access vital **healthcare**. This analysis considers the geographical constraints of this rural community, the availability of public transit, the presence of ride-sharing services, and the specialized needs of those requiring medical transport. Ultimately, the score reflects the ease, affordability, and reliability of accessing healthcare facilities, a critical factor when considering **moving to Woodsfield**.

Woodsfield, nestled in Monroe County, Ohio, presents a unique challenge. Its rural setting, while offering tranquility, significantly impacts **healthcare access**. The primary mode of transport is the personal vehicle, with residents relying heavily on driving to reach medical appointments. The topography, characterized by rolling hills and winding roads, adds another layer of complexity, extending travel times and potentially increasing the risk of accidents.

The primary arteries for navigating the area are State Route 7 and State Route 26. State Route 7, running north-south along the Ohio River, provides access to larger towns and cities, including Marietta to the south and Wheeling, West Virginia, to the north. State Route 26, traversing east-west, connects Woodsfield to surrounding communities and offers access to additional healthcare facilities. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary considerably depending on the specific location and the destination. The closest options are often the Monroe County Health Department and the Monroe County Hospital, both located within Woodsfield. Travel times to these facilities are generally minimal, typically under 10 minutes, making them readily accessible for residents. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, often necessitates travel to larger regional hospitals.

For instance, driving to Wheeling Hospital in Wheeling, West Virginia, a common destination for specialized medical services, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Similarly, a trip to Marietta Memorial Hospital in Marietta, Ohio, might require a drive of around an hour and 15 minutes. These longer travel times underscore the importance of reliable **transportation** and highlight the potential for delayed treatment or increased stress for patients.

Public transit options in Woodsfield are limited. The Southeast Ohio Public Transit Authority (SEORJTA) provides some service within the region, but its routes and schedules are not designed to cater specifically to medical appointments. The routes are infrequent, often operating only a few times a day, and may not align with the schedules of healthcare providers. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles, while present, is not guaranteed on all routes or at all times, potentially limiting access for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not as consistent as in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in remote locations. This unreliability can pose a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent medical appointments, adding to the overall financial burden of healthcare.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in ensuring **healthcare access** for those with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Monroe County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) provides emergency ambulance services, ensuring rapid response in critical situations. However, for non-emergency appointments, the availability of NEMT services is more limited.

Several private companies offer NEMT, providing transportation to and from medical appointments for individuals who cannot drive themselves. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as Medicaid or Medicare coverage. The availability of these services, the cost, and the reliability of their scheduling are critical factors in determining the overall health score.

The **transportation** landscape in Woodsfield presents several challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with longer drive times to specialized care, can create barriers to **healthcare access**. The limited public transit options and the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges. While medical transport services offer a vital lifeline for some, their availability and cost can be limiting factors.

To improve the overall health score, several strategies could be implemented. Enhancing public transit, with more frequent routes and schedules tailored to medical appointments, would be beneficial. Expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, potentially through partnerships with local healthcare providers, could also improve access. Furthermore, promoting the availability and affordability of NEMT services would be crucial for individuals with mobility limitations.

Healthcare providers can also play a role by offering telehealth appointments, reducing the need for in-person visits. Providing transportation assistance, such as subsidized rides or volunteer driver programs, could also help alleviate some of the **transportation** burdens.

Ultimately, the overall health score for residents of Woodsfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 43793) reflects the complex interplay of geographical constraints, **transportation** options, and the availability of healthcare resources. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the challenges associated with accessing healthcare must be carefully considered. Those **moving to Woodsfield** should thoroughly assess their **healthcare access** needs and explore available options to ensure they can receive timely and appropriate medical care. The ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape effectively is a crucial component of maintaining good health and well-being in this rural community. The score, therefore, is moderately challenging, requiring proactive planning and a reliance on personal vehicles.