43832, Newcomerstown, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43832, Newcomerstown, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.42 percent of residents in 43832 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Coshocton Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43832 (Newcomerstown, OH)

Welcome to Newcomerstown, Ohio (ZIP Code 43832), a charming community nestled along the Tuscarawas River. Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount when considering a move, and this report provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the ease of transportation to medical facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. It aims to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for potential residents.

The "Overall Health Score" for 43832 reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by its rural setting. While Newcomerstown offers a peaceful lifestyle, its healthcare landscape is shaped by its distance from larger medical centers. This analysis will explore the realities of navigating the transportation infrastructure to ensure you have the information necessary to make informed decisions.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this system directly influences healthcare access. From Newcomerstown, the most direct routes to larger hospitals and specialized care involve navigating a network of highways and local roads.

To access the closest hospital, the Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, a drive of approximately 45 minutes is required. This journey primarily involves traveling on **State Route 36** east, which connects to **Interstate 70** before reaching Zanesville. The route is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Canton or Columbus. Canton, home to the Aultman Hospital, is approximately a 1-hour 15-minute drive. This route utilizes **State Route 36** to **State Route 21** or **Interstate 77**. Columbus, with its numerous medical centers, is a further journey, requiring roughly a 2-hour drive via **Interstate 70**. These longer distances highlight the importance of reliable vehicles and careful planning for appointments.

The quality of the roads is generally good, but the lack of dedicated public transportation options makes the reliance on personal vehicles even more critical. This emphasizes the importance of vehicle maintenance and the potential impact of unexpected breakdowns on healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Existing Option**

Public transportation in Newcomerstown is limited, but it does exist, offering a lifeline for those without personal vehicles. The Tuscarawas County Transportation (TCT) provides demand-response service. This means residents must schedule rides in advance, making it less convenient for urgent medical needs.

TCT's services are available within Tuscarawas County, including transportation to medical appointments. However, the limited operating hours and the need for pre-booking can pose challenges. The TCT vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments.

While not a comprehensive solution, TCT provides a vital service for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. It requires careful planning and coordination, but it does offer a pathway to healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader area, but their presence in Newcomerstown is less consistent. Availability is often dependent on driver availability, which can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for urgent medical needs.

Medical transport services provide a more specialized solution. Companies like MedExpress and other local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services are typically pre-booked and designed for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. They are often equipped to handle individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs.

These medical transport services can be a valuable resource, particularly for those who cannot drive or require assistance. However, they often come with additional costs and require advanced planning.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis of Factors**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 43832 is moderate. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the distance to major medical facilities and the limited public transportation options create challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle ownership and maintenance.

The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and the need to pre-book appointments with medical transport services adds to the complexity of healthcare access. The TCT provides a vital service, but its limited operating hours and the need for pre-booking require careful planning.

For individuals considering moving to Newcomerstown, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Proactive planning, including establishing transportation options, is essential. This includes knowing the routes to hospitals, understanding the limitations of public transit, and exploring the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

**Recommendations for Residents**

* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule medical appointments in advance and arrange transportation accordingly.
* **Explore Transportation Options:** Familiarize yourself with TCT services, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport providers.
* **Maintain Your Vehicle:** Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition and regularly serviced.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Have a plan in place for unexpected medical needs, including knowing the location of the nearest urgent care facility.

By understanding the transportation landscape and taking proactive steps, residents of 43832 can successfully navigate the healthcare system and maintain their well-being. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a reminder that while the community offers a tranquil setting, careful planning is essential for accessing the healthcare services needed. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Newcomerstown.