43925, East Springfield, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43925, East Springfield, Ohio is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

28.00 percent of residents in 43925 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Trinity Medical Ctr East &Trinity Medical Ctr West with a distance of 13.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in East Springfield (ZIP Code 43925)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of East Springfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 43925), focusing on their ability to access healthcare. The score considers the complexities of transportation options available, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The goal is to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those currently residing or considering **moving to East Springfield**.

The health of a community is intrinsically linked to its residents’ ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care. Factors like distance, mode of **transportation**, and the availability of services significantly impact this access. This score aims to highlight potential challenges and opportunities within the current landscape, providing valuable insights for residents and prospective newcomers.

East Springfield, nestled in the rolling hills of eastern Ohio, presents a unique set of circumstances when considering healthcare access. The rural nature of the area, coupled with limited public transit options, necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for assessing the overall health score.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The primary method of accessing healthcare in 43925 is by personal vehicle. Drive times to medical facilities are heavily influenced by the condition of the roads and traffic flow. The main arteries serving East Springfield include **Ohio State Route 152**, a critical connector for local travel. **U.S. Route 22**, a major east-west thoroughfare, offers access to larger medical centers but can experience congestion, especially during peak hours.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are a critical component of the overall health score. The closest major hospital, Trinity Health System in Steubenville, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via US-22, depending on traffic. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities in nearby towns like Wintersville and Cadiz offer quicker access, with drive times ranging from 10-20 minutes via SR-152 and local roads.

The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, significantly impacts drive times. Winter snow and ice can create hazardous conditions, potentially delaying or preventing access to medical care. The lack of sidewalks and bike lanes further limits alternative modes of **transportation**, reinforcing the dependence on automobiles.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in 43925 are extremely limited. The Jefferson County Regional Transit Authority (JCRTA) provides some bus services within Jefferson County, but routes serving East Springfield are infrequent and may not directly reach many healthcare facilities. Schedules are often limited to weekdays, further restricting access for residents needing care on evenings or weekends.

The JCRTA does have some buses equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the infrequent service and limited route coverage pose a significant barrier for individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot drive. Reliance on public transit for healthcare access in East Springfield is, therefore, a challenge.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Steubenville area, but their presence in East Springfield is less consistent. Availability can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. This unreliability makes them a less-than-ideal solution for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available. These services are crucial for individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive. However, they can be expensive and require prior arrangements. The availability of NEMT services in 43925 and their ability to meet the needs of the community are critical considerations.

**Medical Transport Brands:** Local ambulance services and providers like MedTrans offer essential services, ensuring emergency care reaches those in need. The efficiency of these services, their response times, and the availability of specialized transport for patients with specific needs are vital factors in the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 43925 reflects a mixed picture. While residents have access to essential medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations in alternative **transportation** options create challenges. The dependence on personal vehicles, coupled with the potential for weather-related delays, increases the risk of delayed or missed appointments.

The lack of robust public transit and the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate these challenges. Individuals without access to a personal vehicle, or those with mobility issues, face significant barriers to accessing healthcare.

**Healthcare Access** is a complex issue. The overall health score is not solely determined by distance. It also considers the financial burden of transportation, the availability of support networks, and the potential for social isolation due to limited mobility.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

To improve the overall health score for East Springfield, several strategies are recommended. Expanding public transit routes and increasing service frequency would significantly improve healthcare access for residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also prove beneficial.

Investing in road maintenance and improvements, particularly during winter months, is crucial. Promoting community-based programs that offer transportation assistance, such as volunteer driver networks, could further enhance access to care.

For those considering **moving to East Springfield**, understanding the limitations of **transportation** options and planning accordingly is essential. It is important to assess your individual needs, consider the availability of support networks, and factor in the potential costs associated with healthcare access.

**Conclusion**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 43925 is moderate. While residents have access to medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of alternative **transportation** options present challenges. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in public transit, ride-sharing partnerships, and community-based support programs is crucial to improving the health and well-being of East Springfield residents. The score underscores the need for continued efforts to improve healthcare access, ensuring that all residents can receive the care they need, when they need it.