44307, Akron, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44307, Akron, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.85 percent of residents in 44307 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.54 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Akron General Medical Center with a distance of 0.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44307

Understanding the ease of accessing healthcare is paramount when considering a move, especially within a specific ZIP code like 44307 in Akron, Ohio. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" based on the accessibility of medical facilities, considering transportation options and their associated challenges. This score reflects the relative ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, impacting their overall well-being.

The 44307 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Akron, presents a mixed bag of transportation options for accessing healthcare. The score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Each element is weighed based on its efficiency, reliability, and accessibility for individuals with varying needs, including those with disabilities.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

Automobile dependence is a reality in many areas, and 44307 is no exception. The efficiency of a car commute heavily influences healthcare access. Primary routes like Interstate 76 (I-76) and Interstate 77 (I-77) are crucial arteries. However, these highways are prone to congestion, especially during peak hours, significantly impacting drive times to hospitals like Akron General Medical Center or Summa Health System – Akron Campus.

Local roads, including Market Street, East Market Street, and West Market Street, provide alternative routes, but they also experience traffic, especially near commercial areas. The time required to reach a doctor's office, urgent care, or hospital can fluctuate wildly depending on the time of day, weather conditions, and unforeseen incidents. This variability contributes to a moderate score in this category, highlighting the need for careful planning.

**Public Transit Pathways:**

The Akron MetroMetropolitan Area Transit Authority (METRO) serves the 44307 area, offering a public transit alternative. Several bus routes traverse the ZIP code, providing access to various medical facilities. Routes 1, 2, 4, and 8 are particularly relevant, connecting to hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

METRO strives to provide accessible transportation, with ADA-compliant buses equipped with ramps and other features for individuals with disabilities. While METRO offers a vital service, the overall score is affected by the potential for longer travel times compared to driving, along with the need for transfers, which can add to the complexity of a healthcare commute. The reliability of public transportation is also a factor, as delays can occur.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another option for transportation to healthcare appointments. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing wait times compared to public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially for frequent appointments.

Specialized medical transport services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide these services, offering a crucial lifeline for those who cannot use other transportation options. These services often require advance booking, adding another layer of planning to the process. While essential for a specific segment of the population, the availability and cost of these services impact the overall score.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Akron:**

The overall "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 44307 is moderately positive. While the area offers a range of transportation options, each presents its own set of challenges. Drive times can be unpredictable, public transit has limitations in frequency and coverage, and ride-sharing and medical transport come with associated costs.

When considering moving to Akron, particularly within the 44307 ZIP code, it is crucial to assess individual needs and priorities. Factors such as proximity to medical facilities, the availability of reliable transportation, and financial considerations should be carefully weighed. Understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is a critical element in making an informed decision.

**The Score Breakdown:**

* **Drive Time:** Moderate. Variable due to traffic congestion on major highways and local roads.
* **Public Transit:** Moderate. Serviced by METRO with ADA-compliant buses, but frequency and coverage can be limited.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Moderate. Offers on-demand service but can be costly.
* **Medical Transport:** Positive. Specialized services available for those with specific needs.

**Overall Health Score: Moderate.**

This score indicates that while healthcare access is generally achievable in 44307, residents must carefully consider their transportation options and plan accordingly. Those prioritizing ease of access may find certain areas more advantageous than others. Understanding these nuances is essential for making informed decisions about healthcare and overall well-being.