44130, Cleveland, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44130, Cleveland, Ohio is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.65 percent of residents in 44130 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southwest General Health Center with a distance of 2.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44130

Considering a move to the Cleveland area, particularly the 44130 ZIP code? Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. This score isn't a numerical value, but rather a comprehensive evaluation of the challenges and opportunities presented by the commute to healthcare within this specific geographical area.

The 44130 ZIP code encompasses the suburb of Parma, Ohio. This area is primarily residential, offering a blend of housing options and a relatively stable community. However, its suburban character significantly influences the transportation dynamics and, consequently, the ease with which residents can access medical care. The "Overall Health Score" for 44130 is significantly influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of alternative transportation options.

**Driving the Healthcare Journey:**

The primary mode of transportation in 44130 is the personal vehicle. Major thoroughfares like I-480, I-71, and the Jennings Freeway (State Route 17) are crucial arteries for navigating the region. Travel times to healthcare facilities are heavily dependent on traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours. Residents face potential delays when commuting to appointments, potentially impacting appointment adherence and overall health outcomes.

Accessing healthcare facilities in neighboring areas, such as Cleveland proper, often necessitates navigating these highways. The drive to University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, a major regional healthcare provider, can range from 20 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Similarly, the commute to the Cleveland Clinic Main Campus, another renowned institution, presents similar time constraints. Even shorter trips to local urgent care facilities or primary care physicians can be impacted by traffic congestion, particularly along routes like Ridge Road and Pearl Road.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) provides public transportation services in the area. However, the accessibility and frequency of public transit within 44130 are limited. The primary bus routes serving the area include routes like the 51, 51A, and 54. These routes primarily operate along major roads, offering connections to downtown Cleveland and other surrounding suburbs.

While GCRTA endeavors to provide ADA-accessible services, including wheelchair lifts and accessible routes, the coverage within 44130 is not as extensive as in more densely populated areas. This limitation poses challenges for individuals with mobility impairments or those who do not own a vehicle. The infrequent service and longer travel times associated with public transit can deter residents from utilizing this mode of transportation for healthcare appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services are readily available in the 44130 area, providing on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Medical transportation services are also available in the region. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transportation specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. While these services offer a valuable solution, they often require advance booking and may have associated costs.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The availability of healthcare facilities within 44130 itself is a crucial factor in the "Overall Health Score." The area has a mix of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers. However, the concentration of specialized medical services, such as advanced surgical procedures or specialized treatments, is often higher in the city of Cleveland or surrounding areas. This necessitates travel, increasing the reliance on transportation.

The proximity of pharmacies and other healthcare-related services is also a consideration. Easy access to medication refills and other essential healthcare products can improve overall health outcomes. The availability of these services within the 44130 area contributes positively to the "Overall Health Score."

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

The "Overall Health Score" for 44130 reflects a mixed picture. The reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can negatively impact healthcare access. The limitations of public transit and the cost of ride-sharing services pose additional challenges. However, the availability of ride-sharing, medical transport, and the presence of local healthcare facilities mitigate some of these concerns.

The "Overall Health Score" is also influenced by the individual's circumstances. Factors such as age, mobility, income, and access to social support systems can significantly impact the ability to access healthcare. For individuals with limited mobility or those who do not own a vehicle, the challenges of transportation are amplified.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

Several strategies could enhance the "Overall Health Score" for 44130. Improving the frequency and coverage of GCRTA bus routes, particularly those connecting to major healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Expanding the availability of affordable ride-sharing programs or subsidized medical transportation services could also improve access.

Promoting the development of telehealth services, allowing residents to access healthcare remotely, could reduce the need for physical travel. Supporting community-based programs that provide transportation assistance to vulnerable populations would further improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 44130 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers access to local healthcare services and alternative transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit present challenges. Considering a move to Cleveland, specifically 44130, requires a careful assessment of individual transportation needs and healthcare priorities. Addressing these challenges through strategic improvements in public transit, ride-sharing programs, and telehealth services can significantly enhance the "Overall Health Score" and improve healthcare access for all residents.