44251, Westfield Center, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44251, Westfield Center, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.02 percent of residents in 44251 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 4.31 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44251

Westfield Center, Ohio (ZIP Code 44251), presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and suburban convenience. When considering the overall health score for this area, a crucial factor emerges: the accessibility of healthcare. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for residents. Understanding these elements is paramount for anyone contemplating moving to Westfield Center, ensuring their healthcare needs can be met efficiently and effectively.

The lifeblood of transportation in and around Westfield Center is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The primary arteries for reaching healthcare facilities are State Route 224, connecting the village eastward, and State Route 303, providing north-south passage. These roadways, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near larger towns like Medina and Wadsworth, where a significant concentration of medical services resides. Drive times to these centers are crucial determinants of the health score.

For residents seeking primary care, the drive to Wadsworth, approximately 10-15 minutes via State Route 224, is a common route. Wadsworth Hospital, a part of the Cleveland Clinic system, is a major healthcare hub, offering a wide array of services. Specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, are readily available within a reasonable driving distance. Accessing the hospital from Westfield Center is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, especially during Ohio's unpredictable winters, can impact travel times.

Specialized medical care, however, may necessitate longer commutes. The Cleveland Clinic main campus, a world-renowned medical center, is roughly an hour's drive, primarily via Interstate 71 North. Similarly, University Hospitals in Cleveland, another leading healthcare provider, requires a similar travel time. These longer commutes, while offering access to exceptional medical expertise, can place a burden on residents, particularly those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. The overall health score must consider the time commitment and potential stress associated with accessing these vital resources.

Public transportation options within ZIP Code 44251 are, unfortunately, limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge to healthcare access, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The Medina County Transit (MCT) offers some services, but its routes and schedules may not directly serve Westfield Center or provide frequent connections to major healthcare facilities. Residents often rely on friends, family, or private transportation services.

The MCT does offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency and coverage of these services within the area may not adequately address the healthcare needs of all residents. Expansion of public transit infrastructure, including increased routes and frequency, would significantly improve the overall health score by enhancing healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a convenient, albeit potentially expensive, alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. Availability, however, can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Medical transport services, such as Med-Ride, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services, while reliable, can be costly and require advance booking.

Medical transport brands like Med-Ride and FirstLight Home Care, cater to individuals requiring assistance with mobility and medical appointments. These services provide a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. The cost of these services, however, can be a significant barrier for some residents, impacting the overall health score. Careful consideration of these expenses is essential when evaluating the accessibility of healthcare.

The availability of these services, while offering crucial support, does not negate the need for improved public transit infrastructure. A more comprehensive public transportation network would alleviate the reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport, making healthcare access more equitable and affordable for all residents.

The overall health score for Westfield Center, considering healthcare access, is moderate. While residents have access to quality medical care within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations of public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services present challenges. The cost of medical transport and the potential for longer commutes for specialized care also impact the score.

Moving to Westfield Center necessitates a thorough assessment of individual healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. Prospective residents should consider their reliance on personal vehicles, the availability of family or friends for transportation, and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical transport.

Future improvements to the overall health score could be achieved through strategic investments in public transportation, expansion of ride-sharing services, and initiatives to promote affordable medical transport options. These measures would significantly enhance healthcare access, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community for all residents. The ongoing evolution of transportation infrastructure, coupled with innovative healthcare delivery models, will play a crucial role in shaping the future health score of Westfield Center and its residents.