44082, Pierpont, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44082, Pierpont, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.71 percent of residents in 44082 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.30 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Uhhs Memorial Hospital Of Geneva with a distance of 19.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44082 (Pierpont, Ohio)

The picturesque village of Pierpont, Ohio, nestled within the 44082 ZIP code, offers a tranquil setting for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, the serene landscape presents a unique challenge: **healthcare access**. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, meticulously examining the transportation infrastructure and options available to residents for reaching essential medical services. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for prospective residents, particularly those **moving to Pierpont**.

The score reflects the ease with which residents can access doctors, specialists, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities. Factors like distance, road conditions, and available transportation modes are weighed to provide a nuanced understanding of the healthcare landscape. This analysis aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being and the practicality of residing in Pierpont.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Pierpont is personal vehicles. The village's relative isolation means relying on a car is often unavoidable. The major arteries connecting Pierpont to healthcare facilities are Ohio State Route 7 (SR-7) and SR-193. These routes are generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during the harsh Ohio winters, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

The closest hospital, Ashtabula County Medical Center (ACMC), is approximately 20 miles away, requiring a drive of around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. The journey necessitates navigating SR-7 south, which can experience congestion during peak hours. For specialized care, residents may need to travel further, potentially to Cleveland Clinic facilities in Cleveland, a drive of roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, mainly via Interstate 90 (I-90) west.

Other healthcare providers, such as urgent care centers and specialist clinics, are scattered throughout the surrounding areas, adding to the complexity of planning healthcare trips. The rural nature of the area can lead to longer travel times compared to more urban environments. This factor is a critical consideration for anyone **moving to Pierpont**.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options within and around Pierpont are limited. The Ashtabula County Transportation System (ACTS) provides demand-response service, meaning residents must schedule rides in advance. While ACTS offers transportation to medical appointments, the availability is contingent upon scheduling and service area limitations. This can present a significant challenge for those requiring immediate or unscheduled medical attention.

ACTS vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on advance scheduling and the potential for longer travel times due to multiple pick-ups and drop-offs should be considered. The lack of fixed-route public transit significantly impacts the Overall Health Score, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a limited presence in Pierpont and the surrounding rural areas. Availability can be unpredictable, and wait times may be lengthy, making them unreliable for urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available for individuals requiring assistance. These services are primarily used for emergency situations or for those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability and cost of NEMT services can vary, and prior arrangements may be necessary.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations:**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 44082 is moderate. While residents can access healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges. The drive times to hospitals and specialist clinics, particularly in adverse weather conditions, can be significant.

The lack of readily available ride-sharing services and the need to schedule public transit in advance further complicate healthcare access. The availability of medical transport services provides a safety net, but their use is typically reserved for specific circumstances.

For individuals considering **moving to Pierpont**, the following factors are crucial:

* **Vehicle Ownership:** A reliable vehicle is essential for accessing healthcare.
* **Proximity to Primary Care:** Establishing a relationship with a local primary care physician is recommended for routine care and referrals.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Knowing the location of the nearest emergency room and understanding the local emergency services protocols is vital.
* **Transportation Planning:** Planning and scheduling transportation to appointments, especially for those reliant on public transit or medical transport, is essential.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensuring adequate health insurance coverage is critical to mitigate the cost of healthcare services and transportation.

**Recommendations:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Expanding the ACTS service area and frequency could improve healthcare access for residents without personal vehicles.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Facilitating partnerships between local healthcare providers and ride-sharing services could improve access to appointments.
* **Community Education:** Educating residents about available healthcare resources, transportation options, and emergency preparedness is crucial.
* **Telehealth Integration:** Encouraging the adoption of telehealth services can reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Conclusion:**

Living in Pierpont offers a unique lifestyle, but it is essential to acknowledge the challenges associated with **healthcare access**. The Overall Health Score reflects the need for careful planning and consideration of transportation options. By understanding the available resources and proactively addressing potential challenges, residents can effectively manage their healthcare needs and enjoy the benefits of living in this tranquil community. The success of healthcare access is a shared responsibility, requiring collaboration between residents, healthcare providers, and local authorities to ensure the well-being of all.