44141, Brecksville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44141, Brecksville, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.64 percent of residents in 44141 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Marymount Hospital with a distance of 7.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 44141

The health of a community is intricately woven with the ease with which its residents can access vital healthcare services. This report delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 44141 (Brecksville, Ohio), evaluating its "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare facilities. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a comprehensive picture for residents and those considering moving to Brecksville, assessing the ease with which they can navigate the healthcare system.

Brecksville, nestled in Cuyahoga County, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to the healthcare hubs of Cleveland. The overall health score is significantly influenced by the efficiency and reliability of the transportation options available.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 44141 is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The well-maintained network of roadways allows for relatively quick commutes to various medical facilities. The major artery is Interstate 77 (I-77), which runs directly through Brecksville, providing swift access to hospitals and clinics both north and south.

Traveling north on I-77 quickly connects residents to the Cleveland Clinic South Pointe Hospital in Warrensville Heights, a drive that typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Heading south on I-77 offers access to the University Hospitals Parma Medical Center, usually a 15-25 minute drive.

Ohio Route 82 (Royalton Road) serves as a critical east-west thoroughfare, offering alternative routes and connecting Brecksville to neighboring communities. This route provides access to urgent care facilities and primary care physician offices located along its path. The drive time to these facilities is generally shorter than those accessed via I-77, averaging 5-10 minutes.

Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can impact drive times. The morning and evening commutes can extend travel durations, particularly on I-77. However, the overall road infrastructure in and around Brecksville facilitates relatively easy access to essential healthcare services.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For residents without personal vehicles, public transportation options are available, though their impact on the overall health score is somewhat limited. The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) provides bus service to Brecksville.

The primary bus route serving the area is Route 83 (Brecksville-Broadview Heights), which connects Brecksville to downtown Cleveland. While this route offers a vital link to the city, it may not be the most direct or efficient way to reach healthcare facilities outside of downtown.

The GCRTA strives to provide accessible services, with ADA-compliant buses equipped with ramps and designated seating. However, the frequency of bus service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor. Travel times on public transit are generally longer than driving, often requiring transfers and potentially increasing the total commute time to healthcare appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Brecksville, offering an alternative transportation option, especially for those unable to drive or needing a convenient alternative to public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, significantly improving healthcare access for some residents.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and First Transit, cater specifically to individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring specialized assistance. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist passengers. They are particularly valuable for individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a barrier for some residents. However, these services play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

Considering the various transportation options, the overall health score for accessing healthcare in 44141 is moderately high. The presence of a well-maintained road network, including I-77 and Route 82, allows for relatively quick drive times to major hospitals and clinics. Ride-sharing services further enhance accessibility, providing a convenient alternative to driving.

However, the limitations of public transit, particularly the frequency of bus service and longer travel times, slightly diminish the overall score. The availability and affordability of medical transportation services contribute positively to the score, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can access healthcare.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Brecksville's location offers convenient access to a range of healthcare providers in both Brecksville and neighboring communities.
* **Road Infrastructure:** The well-maintained road network facilitates relatively quick drive times.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** Limited frequency and longer travel times via public transit slightly impact the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:** The availability of these services enhances healthcare access for a wider range of residents.

**Recommendations:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Increasing the frequency of bus service, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, would improve healthcare access for residents relying on public transit.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Programs:** Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for low-income residents or those with mobility challenges could further improve healthcare access.
* **Community Awareness:** Raising awareness about available medical transportation services and their eligibility criteria can ensure that those who need assistance are aware of their options.

**Conclusion:**

Brecksville (44141) generally provides good access to healthcare. The robust road network and the availability of ride-sharing services contribute positively to the overall health score. Addressing the limitations of public transit and promoting medical transportation options will further enhance healthcare access for all residents, making Brecksville an even more attractive place to live, especially for those moving to Brecksville.