43843, Walhonding, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43843, Walhonding, Ohio is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.85 percent of residents in 43843 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Knox Community Hospital with a distance of 15.23 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43843 (Walhonding, Ohio)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In the rural expanse of ZIP Code 43843, encompassing the village of Walhonding and surrounding areas, the journey to medical care presents a unique set of challenges. This assessment provides an “Overall Health Score” based on the multifaceted aspects of healthcare transportation, evaluating the accessibility and efficiency of options available to residents. The score considers drive times, public transit limitations, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive view of the healthcare landscape.

The score, ultimately, is a reflection of the community's capacity to support its residents' physical and mental health. Factors like geographic isolation, socioeconomic disparities, and the availability of resources all contribute to the overall picture. Understanding these complexities is crucial for informed decision-making, especially for individuals considering moving to Walhonding or seeking to improve healthcare access within the region.

**Drive Times: The Primary Mode of Transportation**

For residents of 43843, the automobile reigns supreme as the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The closest medical resources are concentrated in nearby towns, dictating reliance on personal vehicles. Drive times are heavily influenced by the road network, weather conditions, and traffic patterns, which are generally less congested than in urban areas.

To reach the closest hospitals, residents typically navigate a network of rural roads. Traveling to Coshocton, the most likely destination for comprehensive care, involves navigating **State Route 715** and **State Route 16**. The drive time to Coshocton Regional Hospital, a critical access hospital, can range from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the exact location within the ZIP code and traffic conditions. The journey involves winding through picturesque landscapes, which can be beautiful but also subject to weather-related delays, especially during winter months.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Accessing larger medical centers in Zanesville, approximately an hour's drive, often requires utilizing **State Route 60** and **Interstate 70**. This longer commute presents challenges for those requiring urgent care or frequent medical appointments. The journey to Columbus, the state's capital and home to major medical institutions, is a significant undertaking, typically requiring a drive of around two hours via **Interstate 70**. This distance can be a major barrier for residents needing specialized treatments or consultations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in 43843 are extremely limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. The absence of a robust public transit system exacerbates healthcare access issues, particularly for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The availability of bus services is scarce. The Coshocton County Transit, if it operates in the area, may provide limited routes or demand-response services, but the frequency and coverage are likely to be insufficient to meet the healthcare needs of the community. Information regarding specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features is crucial for those relying on public transit. Detailed research into the availability of services is essential for anyone considering moving to Walhonding and relying on public transportation for healthcare.

The lack of a reliable public transit system underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions. This situation emphasizes the importance of exploring ride-sharing options, medical transport services, and community-based initiatives that can bridge the gap in healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are often unavailable in rural areas like 43843, further limiting transportation options. The lack of readily available ride-sharing services presents a significant challenge for residents who are unable to drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This limitation underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions.

Medical transport services play a vital role in providing transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often cater to patients who require non-emergency medical transportation, such as appointments, physical therapy, or dialysis treatments. Several medical transport companies may operate in the region, offering various levels of service.

Some of the medical transport brands serving the area might include MedTransport or other regional providers. These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs. The availability of these services and their affordability are crucial factors in determining healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations**

Considering the drive times, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges in accessing ride-sharing and medical transport services, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare transportation in ZIP Code 43843 is **moderate**. While the community benefits from the presence of Coshocton Regional Hospital, the reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of alternative transportation options create barriers to healthcare access.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several recommendations are crucial. Expanding public transit options, even on a limited basis, could significantly improve access for vulnerable populations. This may involve partnering with neighboring counties or exploring innovative transportation solutions.

Encouraging the expansion of ride-sharing services or supporting community-based transportation initiatives could also help fill the gaps in healthcare access. Providing financial assistance or subsidies for medical transport services could make them more affordable for low-income residents.

Promoting telehealth services, where appropriate, can reduce the need for in-person visits and alleviate the burden of transportation. The implementation of these recommendations would contribute to a healthier and more accessible healthcare environment for the residents of 43843.

For individuals considering moving to Walhonding, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is essential. Evaluating the availability of healthcare facilities, the drive times, and the accessibility of alternative transportation options will help ensure informed decision-making and support a smooth transition to a new community. The overall goal is to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their location or personal circumstances.