44308, Akron, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44308, Akron, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.56 percent of residents in 44308 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 1.73 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Akron General Medical Center with a distance of 0.68 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44308

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Akron, Ohio's 44308 ZIP code requires a nuanced understanding of transportation options. This assessment, the "Overall Health Score," considers the accessibility and efficiency of reaching medical facilities, influencing a resident's ability to proactively manage their well-being. For those considering moving to Akron, this score provides a critical lens through which to evaluate their healthcare access.

The 44308 ZIP code encompasses a diverse area, and its proximity to healthcare varies significantly. The primary concern revolves around the time and effort required to reach essential medical services. The "Overall Health Score" is not a static number, but rather a dynamic assessment reflecting the interplay of available transportation modes, their reliability, and the individual's specific needs.

**Driving the Healthcare Journey:**

The cornerstone of transportation in 44308, as in most American cities, is the automobile. The ease of driving directly impacts healthcare access. Major thoroughfares, including Interstate 76 (I-76) and Interstate 77 (I-77), are crucial arteries. Access to these highways determines how quickly one can reach hospitals and specialist offices.

For instance, reaching Summa Health System – Akron Campus, a major healthcare provider, from various points within 44308 requires navigating local roads and potentially merging onto I-76 or I-77. Drive times fluctuate based on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. The presence of signalized intersections and the condition of roads like West Market Street, East Market Street, and South Main Street also affect travel times.

Furthermore, the availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another factor. While most hospitals offer parking, the cost and the distance from parking to the entrance can create additional burdens, particularly for those with mobility limitations. The ability to drive, therefore, is a significant factor influencing the "Overall Health Score."

**Public Transit: A Mixed Bag:**

The Akron Metropolitan Area Transportation Authority (METRO) provides public transportation within the city and surrounding areas. METRO buses offer an alternative to driving, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the network's coverage and frequency significantly impact healthcare access.

Several METRO routes serve the 44308 ZIP code, connecting residents to healthcare facilities. Specific routes, such as the 1, 2, and 10, provide access to major hospitals and clinics. METRO prioritizes ADA accessibility, ensuring that all buses are equipped with ramps or lifts for passengers with disabilities.

Despite these efforts, the limitations of public transit must be acknowledged. Service frequency, especially during evenings and weekends, might not align with the scheduling of medical appointments. The need to transfer between routes can also extend travel times. The "Overall Health Score" must consider the availability and efficiency of public transit, especially for those who rely on it.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gaps:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who do not own a car or find public transit inconvenient. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. The availability of ride-sharing services, however, can fluctuate based on demand and driver availability, especially during off-peak hours.

Medical transportation services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, provide a crucial service. Companies such as CareRide and FirstMed provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are vital for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during their medical journey. The cost of these services, however, can be a barrier for some, affecting their healthcare access.

**The Impact on the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" in 44308 is a composite of these factors. The score reflects the ease with which residents can reach healthcare facilities, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and medical transportation services. The score also considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities themselves, including ADA compliance and the availability of parking.

A higher score indicates better healthcare access, suggesting that residents can reach medical services with relative ease. A lower score suggests that transportation challenges may hinder access, potentially impacting the ability to receive timely and appropriate care.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

Several factors influence the "Overall Health Score." Traffic congestion on major highways and local roads, especially during peak hours, can increase drive times. The frequency and coverage of METRO bus routes directly impact public transit accessibility. The availability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation also play a significant role.

Furthermore, the individual's specific needs and circumstances influence the score. Someone with mobility limitations, for example, may find public transit or walking difficult, making ride-sharing or medical transportation essential. The score, therefore, must be personalized to reflect individual needs.

**Improving the Score:**

Several initiatives could improve the "Overall Health Score" in 44308. Enhancing public transit frequency and coverage, particularly during evenings and weekends, would benefit many residents. Promoting ride-sharing and medical transportation services, potentially through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers, could improve accessibility for those with limited mobility. Investing in road infrastructure, including traffic management systems, could reduce drive times.

**Conclusion:**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in 44308 reflects the multifaceted nature of transportation and its profound impact on healthcare access. The score is not a fixed number but rather a dynamic assessment that considers driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation options. For those considering moving to Akron, understanding this score is crucial to evaluating the ease with which they can access medical services and manage their health. By addressing the challenges and leveraging available resources, the community can improve the "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.