44255, Mantua, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44255, Mantua, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.28 percent of residents in 44255 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 7.44 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Mantua, Ohio (ZIP Code 44255)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In the charming village of Mantua, Ohio, nestled within the 44255 ZIP code, the question of healthcare access is complex, shaped by the realities of its location and the available transportation options. This write-up assesses the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Mantua, focusing on the critical component of commuting to healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Mantua, as it directly impacts their well-being.

The foundation of any healthcare assessment lies in understanding the distances and travel times to medical facilities. For Mantua residents, the closest hospitals are generally found in Ravenna, Kent, and Streetsboro. Driving to University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, a common destination, typically takes between 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary route is via State Route 44, a well-maintained road that offers a relatively smooth journey.

Kent, home to the esteemed Robinson Memorial Hospital (now University Hospitals Kent Hospital), is accessible via State Route 44 and then either State Route 261 or US Route 422. The drive to Kent usually takes between 15 to 25 minutes. Traffic on these roads can be heavier during peak hours, particularly around Kent State University, so planning accordingly is essential. Streetsboro, with its various medical offices and facilities, is accessible via State Route 44 and the Ohio Turnpike (I-80), offering a drive time of approximately 20 to 30 minutes. The Turnpike adds a toll cost, which should be factored into the overall transportation budget.

These drive times, while generally manageable, are subject to change based on weather conditions and time of day. Snow and ice, common during Ohio winters, can significantly increase travel times and pose safety risks. Residents, especially those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations, must factor in these potential delays when planning medical appointments.

Public transportation options in Mantua are limited, impacting healthcare access. The Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides bus service in Portage County, but routes are not extensive, and service frequency can be limited, particularly on weekends and evenings. The nearest PARTA routes to Mantua might involve a transfer or a significant walk from the bus stop to a healthcare facility.

Currently, there are no direct PARTA routes that specifically serve the immediate vicinity of Mantua. Residents would need to travel to a nearby town, such as Ravenna, to access PARTA services. This lack of direct public transit presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, especially the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. The availability of accessible buses, equipped with features like ramps and lifts for individuals with disabilities (ADA compliant), is a crucial factor in assessing the overall health score. However, the limited reach of PARTA in Mantua diminishes the accessibility of these features.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, but their availability and affordability in Mantua are variable. While these services are generally available, wait times can be longer than in more urban areas, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make them expensive. This reliance on ride-sharing, particularly for routine medical appointments, can be a financial burden for some residents, impacting their ability to seek timely healthcare.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, are available but often require pre-arrangement and can be costly. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive or use public transportation, but their availability and affordability are crucial factors in assessing the overall health score. Companies like MedTrans and local ambulance services offer transport, but their services are typically reserved for specific medical needs and may not be readily available for routine appointments.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Mantua, Ohio (44255), is moderate. While drive times to nearby hospitals and medical facilities are generally reasonable, the lack of robust public transportation options and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing services present significant challenges. The limited reach of PARTA, coupled with the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing, creates a barrier to healthcare access for certain segments of the population, particularly those without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations.

For individuals considering moving to Mantua, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and potential healthcare requirements is essential. This includes evaluating their ability to drive, their reliance on public transportation, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The availability of healthcare access is a critical factor in the overall health and well-being of any community. In Mantua, the current situation demands careful consideration of transportation needs. The village could benefit from exploring options to improve public transportation, such as expanding PARTA routes or partnering with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments. Furthermore, initiatives to promote carpooling or community-based transportation programs could help improve healthcare access for all residents.

The overall health score is not just a number; it reflects the realities of daily life. The ability to easily and affordably access healthcare is fundamental to a healthy community. While Mantua offers a charming and desirable living environment, the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access must be addressed to ensure that all residents can thrive. Further investment in transportation infrastructure and services is crucial to improving the overall health score for residents of Mantua, Ohio.