44288, Windham, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44288, Windham, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.93 percent of residents in 44288 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 10.78 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44288 (Windham, Ohio)**

Assessing the overall health score for healthcare access in Windham, Ohio (ZIP code 44288) necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of transportation options. This includes drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation options. Understanding these factors is critical for residents and those considering moving to Windham, ensuring timely access to essential healthcare services. The area's rural nature significantly influences the transportation landscape, shaping the overall health score.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Windham. Residents rely on personal vehicles to navigate the region. The primary thoroughfares include State Route 82, State Route 44, and US Route 422. These roads offer direct routes to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals, such as University Hospitals Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, typically range from 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Travel to facilities in larger cities like Akron or Cleveland will take considerably longer, potentially exceeding an hour, particularly during peak commuting hours. The condition of these roads, especially during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and safety, influencing the overall health score.

Public transportation options in Windham are limited. The Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides some bus services, but routes and schedules may not always align with healthcare appointment times. PARTA Route 10, for example, may offer service to Ravenna, where healthcare facilities are located. However, ADA accessibility features are available, including ramps and lifts, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service.

The frequency of these routes and the distance between stops can present challenges for accessing healthcare, especially for those with mobility limitations or living outside the immediate route. This limited public transportation availability negatively impacts the overall health score, particularly for residents without personal vehicles.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving or public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. This unpredictability can make relying on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments risky. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, further impacting the overall health score.

Medical transportation services are available for those needing assistance. Companies such as First Transit and ProCare provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments.

However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly for short-notice appointments. The cost of these services can also be a significant factor, influencing the overall health score, especially for those with limited financial resources.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Windham is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the lack of robust public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services further influence the score.

The health score is also impacted by the geographical isolation of Windham, which necessitates longer travel times to access specialized medical services available in larger cities. This factor is especially relevant for individuals with complex medical needs.

For individuals considering moving to Windham, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Careful consideration should be given to the availability of transportation options, potential travel times, and associated costs. Planning for healthcare appointments, including booking transportation in advance, is essential.

The overall health score can be improved by enhancing public transportation options, expanding the availability of ride-sharing services, and increasing the affordability of medical transportation. Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and traffic management, can also contribute to improved healthcare access.

Furthermore, promoting community-based programs that provide transportation assistance to vulnerable populations, such as seniors and individuals with disabilities, can positively impact the overall health score. Educating residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources is equally important.

The overall health score is a dynamic measure, influenced by various factors. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of transportation infrastructure and services are essential to ensure that residents of Windham have equitable access to healthcare. The ability to access healthcare promptly and reliably is a fundamental determinant of overall health and well-being.

The future of healthcare access in Windham depends on collaborative efforts from local government, healthcare providers, and community organizations. By addressing transportation barriers, Windham can strive to improve the overall health score and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The integration of telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, can also mitigate transportation challenges and enhance healthcare access.