44048, Kingsville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44048, Kingsville, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.51 percent of residents in 44048 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ashtabula County Medical Center with a distance of 6.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Kingsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44048)

Kingsville, Ohio, nestled along the southern shore of Lake Erie, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, a crucial aspect of overall well-being, healthcare access, must be thoroughly examined before considering a move. This assessment provides an 'Overall Health Score' for residents of ZIP Code 44048, focusing on the critical element of transportation to healthcare facilities. The score integrates drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility.

The geography of Kingsville, while charming, presents some challenges. The town is relatively rural, and while the immediate surroundings offer a sense of peace, the nearest significant healthcare providers are located in neighboring communities. This necessitates reliance on transportation to access essential medical services. The 'Overall Health Score' will reflect the ease or difficulty of navigating these distances.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for most Kingsville residents to access healthcare is by personal vehicle. The drive times to various medical facilities are a critical component of the 'Overall Health Score.' The primary roadways impacting commute times include US Route 20, the main east-west thoroughfare, and State Route 193, which provides a north-south connection.

For routine appointments and general medical needs, the closest option is often the Ashtabula County Medical Center, located in Ashtabula. The drive to Ashtabula County Medical Center from Kingsville is typically a 15-20 minute journey, primarily via US Route 20. Traffic flow is generally manageable, contributing positively to the 'Overall Health Score.' However, during peak hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, congestion on Route 20 can add to the travel time.

Specialized medical care may require a longer commute. For more complex procedures or specialist consultations, residents might need to travel to Cleveland Clinic facilities in Cleveland, approximately 50-60 miles away. This journey typically involves utilizing US Route 20 to Interstate 90 (I-90) west. The commute to Cleveland can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic conditions. The 'Overall Health Score' is negatively impacted by these longer travel times, particularly for those requiring frequent specialist visits.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Kingsville are limited. Ashtabula County is served by the Ashtabula County Transit (ACT). ACT operates a demand-response system, meaning that rides must be scheduled in advance. This system is not ideal for urgent medical needs, but it does provide a crucial service for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

ACT offers curb-to-curb service, which is ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the scheduling requirements and the limited service area mean that ACT is not a readily available option for many residents. The 'Overall Health Score' reflects the constraints of public transit, particularly the need for advance planning and the potential for longer travel times.

The availability of public transportation to Cleveland is even more limited. While there might be some intercity bus services, they are infrequent and may not be directly accessible from Kingsville. The lack of reliable public transportation to Cleveland significantly impacts the 'Overall Health Score' for residents needing specialized care in the city.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ashtabula County area, including Kingsville. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. While ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, it can be expensive, and the reliability is not always guaranteed. The 'Overall Health Score' considers the limitations of ride-sharing, particularly its potential cost and availability challenges.

Medical transportation services are another option for those who require assistance getting to appointments. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to healthcare facilities. These services typically cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. While NEMT can be a valuable resource, it often requires pre-booking and may have associated costs. The 'Overall Health Score' considers the potential costs and the need for advance planning associated with medical transportation services.

**Impact on the 'Overall Health Score':**

The 'Overall Health Score' for Kingsville, Ohio, reflects a mixed picture. The relatively short drive to Ashtabula County Medical Center provides a positive element. However, the longer commute times to Cleveland for specialized care and the limited public transportation options negatively affect the score. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation provides some relief, but these options are not always readily available or affordable.

The 'Overall Health Score' for transportation and healthcare access in Kingsville, Ohio, is moderately favorable. While access to basic medical care is relatively easy, accessing specialized care requires longer travel times and relies heavily on personal vehicles. The lack of robust public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services are significant factors.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the 'Overall Health Score' for Kingsville residents, several initiatives could be considered. Enhancing public transportation options, perhaps by increasing the frequency of ACT services or exploring partnerships with intercity bus lines, would be beneficial. Promoting the availability and awareness of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options is also crucial.

Furthermore, encouraging the development of telehealth services could improve access to healthcare, particularly for those who have difficulty traveling. Supporting local healthcare providers and encouraging the establishment of additional medical facilities in Kingsville or nearby communities would also significantly improve the 'Overall Health Score.'

**Conclusion:**

Moving to Kingsville, Ohio, offers a desirable lifestyle, but prospective residents must carefully consider the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access. The 'Overall Health Score' highlights the importance of understanding the commute times, public transportation options, and ride-sharing availability before making a decision. By understanding the limitations and exploring potential solutions, residents can make informed choices about their healthcare needs and ensure a healthy and fulfilling life in Kingsville. The 'Overall Health Score' is a dynamic measure that can be improved through community efforts and strategic investments in transportation and healthcare infrastructure.