44305, Akron, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44305, Akron, Ohio is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.62 percent of residents in 44305 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Summa Health System with a distance of 1.68 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44305

Navigating the intricate web of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially within a specific geographic area. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for the 44305 ZIP code in Akron, Ohio, focusing on the crucial aspect of transportation and its impact on reaching medical facilities. The analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for prospective residents.

The 44305 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Akron, presents a mixed bag of transportation challenges and opportunities. Its proximity to major thoroughfares like Interstate 76 (I-76) and Interstate 77 (I-77) provides a foundation for efficient travel, yet local road congestion and public transit limitations introduce complexities. Understanding these nuances is paramount to assessing the overall health score, which directly correlates with the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare.

**Drive Times: The Paved Pathways to Care**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents in 44305. The accessibility of healthcare facilities hinges significantly on drive times, which vary depending on the destination and the time of day. During peak hours, the flow of traffic on major arteries like I-76, I-77, and Route 8 can significantly impact travel times.

For residents in the northern portion of 44305, reaching Summa Health System – Akron Campus, a major healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of 10 to 20 minutes, contingent on traffic conditions. Traveling to Cleveland Clinic Akron General, located further south, might extend the commute to 15 to 30 minutes. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities, often located along major roads like Market Street and West Market Street, offer more immediate options, with drive times generally under 10 minutes.

Conversely, residents in the southern part of 44305 might experience longer drive times, particularly when heading north towards Summa Health System. The presence of local roads, such as South Arlington Road and East Waterloo Road, can create bottlenecks, adding to the overall travel time. Careful consideration of the location of healthcare providers relative to one's residence is crucial for those prioritizing quick access to medical care.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Akron Metro Regional Transit Authority (Akron Metro) provides public transportation services within the 44305 ZIP code. The availability of bus routes is a crucial factor in healthcare access, especially for individuals who do not own vehicles or are unable to drive. The Akron Metro system offers several routes that traverse the 44305 area, connecting residents to various healthcare facilities.

Key routes serving the area include the 1, 2, 3, and 6, which provide access to hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. The frequency of these routes, however, can be a limiting factor. While some routes operate with reasonable frequency during peak hours, others have less frequent schedules, potentially increasing wait times and making it challenging to schedule appointments.

The Akron Metro system is committed to providing accessible transportation options. All buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps or lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This commitment is essential for ensuring that all residents, regardless of their physical abilities, can access healthcare services. However, the overall coverage and frequency of service in the 44305 area could be improved to enhance healthcare access for all residents.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an on-demand transportation alternative for residents in 44305. These services can be particularly useful for individuals who need to get to appointments quickly or who have limited mobility. The availability of ride-sharing services in Akron is generally good, with wait times typically ranging from a few minutes to 15 minutes, depending on demand and location.

Beyond ride-sharing, specialized medical transport services are also available. These services cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility, such as those using wheelchairs or needing stretcher transportation. Companies like MedTrans and AMR (American Medical Response) provide non-emergency medical transportation, ensuring that individuals with specific needs can access healthcare facilities safely and comfortably.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. While these services provide convenient options, the associated costs should be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Perspective**

The overall health score for healthcare access in the 44305 ZIP code is a composite measure. It acknowledges the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation infrastructure. The presence of major highways like I-76 and I-77 provides a foundation for efficient travel, while the availability of public transit and ride-sharing services offers alternative options.

However, challenges exist. Road congestion, particularly during peak hours, can increase drive times. The frequency and coverage of Akron Metro routes could be enhanced to improve accessibility. The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services may pose a barrier for some residents.

**Moving to Akron: Making Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Akron, the 44305 ZIP code presents a nuanced picture of healthcare access. The availability of various transportation options provides flexibility, but careful consideration of individual needs and circumstances is essential. Prospective residents should assess their reliance on personal vehicles, their ability to use public transit, and their financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The proximity of healthcare facilities to one's residence is a critical factor. Researching the locations of hospitals, clinics, and medical offices relative to potential housing options is crucial. Understanding the drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing availability associated with those facilities is equally important.

Ultimately, the overall health score for healthcare access in the 44305 ZIP code reflects a balance of opportunities and challenges. By carefully evaluating the transportation landscape and considering individual needs, prospective residents can make informed decisions and ensure they have access to the healthcare services they require.