44017, Berea, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44017, Berea, Ohio is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.24 percent of residents in 44017 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southwest General Health Center with a distance of 1.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44017

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Berea, Ohio (ZIP Code 44017) requires a comprehensive look at healthcare access. This involves not only the availability of medical facilities but also the ease and efficiency of reaching them. Crucially, this includes an assessment of the transportation infrastructure, a pivotal factor in determining the health and well-being of the community. This write-up delves into the various modes of transportation available, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, providing a detailed analysis of the commute to healthcare within and surrounding Berea.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents of Berea is the personal vehicle. The city's location, approximately 20 miles southwest of Cleveland, necessitates reliance on roadways for accessing healthcare services. Major arteries like Interstate 71 (I-71) and Interstate 480 (I-480) serve as the primary routes for reaching hospitals and clinics in Cleveland and surrounding suburbs. Traveling north on I-71 provides access to University Hospitals St. John Medical Center in Westlake, a significant healthcare provider. Southbound on I-71 offers access to the Cleveland Clinic's main campus and its many satellite facilities.

Local roads, such as Bagley Road and Eastland Road, are crucial for navigating within Berea and connecting to the interstate system. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting drive times to medical appointments. The efficiency of these routes is vital for those with mobility issues or urgent medical needs. Careful consideration of traffic patterns is crucial for residents planning their healthcare commutes.

Public transportation, while available, plays a more limited role in healthcare access for Berea residents. The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) provides bus service in the area. Routes like the 83-A, which runs along Lorain Road, offer connections to Cleveland and other suburbs. However, these routes may not directly serve all healthcare facilities and often involve transfers, extending travel times. The GCRTA strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility features like ramps and designated seating on its buses.

The availability of public transportation is a critical factor for individuals who cannot drive, including seniors and those with disabilities. However, the frequency and coverage of the GCRTA routes in Berea might present challenges. Residents considering moving to Berea should carefully evaluate the proximity of bus stops to their homes and the accessibility of the routes to their preferred healthcare providers.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially making healthcare access more convenient, especially for those with limited mobility or who prefer not to drive. The cost of ride-sharing, however, can be a barrier for some, particularly for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, especially during peak hours or inclement weather, is another consideration.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transportation, several options exist. MedTrans, a national provider, offers non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Other local companies may also provide similar services. These services are essential for individuals who cannot use public transit or ride-sharing due to their medical conditions. However, availability and insurance coverage for these services should be carefully researched.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the time of day. A trip to University Hospitals St. John Medical Center in Westlake, via I-71, typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Traveling to the Cleveland Clinic's main campus can take 30-45 minutes or longer, particularly during rush hour. Local clinics and urgent care centers in Berea are generally more accessible, with drive times of less than 15 minutes.

The availability of healthcare facilities within Berea itself is a significant factor in assessing healthcare access. The presence of family practices, specialists, and urgent care centers reduces the need for long-distance travel. However, the range of specialized services available in Berea may be limited, necessitating travel to Cleveland or other suburbs for certain medical needs.

Factors impacting the overall health score for healthcare access in Berea extend beyond transportation. The cost of healthcare, insurance coverage, and the availability of healthcare providers accepting new patients are also crucial considerations. The demographics of the community, including the age distribution and the prevalence of chronic diseases, further influence healthcare needs.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 44017 reflects a mixed picture. While the reliance on personal vehicles offers flexibility, it also presents challenges related to traffic congestion and the cost of vehicle ownership. Public transportation, while available, may not adequately serve all residents. Ride-sharing services offer an alternative but can be costly. Specialized medical transportation provides essential services for those in need.

Moving to Berea requires careful consideration of these factors. Prospective residents should assess their individual healthcare needs and evaluate the transportation options accordingly. Researching the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services is crucial. Understanding the potential commute times to various healthcare facilities is also essential.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Berea can be improved by enhancing public transportation, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and promoting the development of healthcare facilities within the city. Continued investment in infrastructure, including road maintenance and traffic management, is also vital. Collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations can help create a more accessible and efficient healthcare system for all residents of Berea.