44311, Akron, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44311, Akron, Ohio is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.18 percent of residents in 44311 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Akron General Medical Center with a distance of 1.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44311

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, particularly when considering a move to a new area. This report analyzes the ease of accessing healthcare facilities from ZIP code 44311 in Akron, Ohio, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options and their associated challenges. This score will help potential residents understand the accessibility of medical services, an essential factor in making informed decisions about their health and relocation.

The "Overall Health Score" considers several factors: drive times, public transit availability, ride-share and medical transport options, and accessibility features. Each category is assessed to provide a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this specific geographical area. This analysis is crucial for individuals and families prioritizing healthcare access when considering a move to Akron.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

The primary arteries for transportation in and out of 44311 are Interstate 76 (I-76), Interstate 77 (I-77), and State Route 8 (SR-8). These highways are crucial for accessing healthcare facilities, but traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times, especially during peak hours. Rush hour commutes, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, can dramatically increase travel durations, potentially delaying critical medical attention.

For residents in 44311, the drive to major hospitals like Akron General Medical Center (now Cleveland Clinic Akron General) often involves navigating I-76 or I-77. The distance is relatively short, but traffic can extend a typical 10-15 minute drive to 25-30 minutes during peak hours. Similarly, access to Summa Health System's facilities might require using SR-8, which can also experience heavy traffic. Understanding these potential delays is essential for planning medical appointments and managing healthcare needs.

Accessing specialized clinics or urgent care facilities scattered throughout the city requires navigating local roads like Market Street, West Market Street, and East Market Street. These roads are often subject to traffic lights and intersections, further increasing travel times. Residents should factor in these potential delays when scheduling appointments or seeking immediate medical care. Considering these drive times is vital when thinking about moving to Akron.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Akron MetroMetropolitan Area Transit Authority (METRO) provides public transportation services within the city. Several bus routes serve the 44311 area, offering an alternative to driving. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes can be a limiting factor for healthcare access.

Route 1, which travels along West Market Street, and Route 2, which travels along East Market Street, provide access to healthcare facilities along their respective corridors. Route 10, which runs along Main Street, can also be useful for reaching downtown medical centers. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, may not always align with healthcare appointment schedules.

METRO buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and priority seating, making them a viable option for individuals with mobility impairments. However, the overall travel time on public transit is typically longer than driving, often requiring transfers and walking. This can be a significant consideration for those with limited mobility or those needing to access healthcare quickly.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Akron and offer a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can provide on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities, offering flexibility and eliminating the need to navigate traffic or parking. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and other specialized providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles. While these services provide a valuable option for those with mobility limitations or other healthcare needs, they can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides a valuable safety net for healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. These services can be especially beneficial for accessing emergency care or scheduled appointments.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 44311 is moderate. While residents have access to multiple transportation options, each comes with its own set of challenges. Drive times can be impacted by traffic congestion, public transit may have limited frequency and coverage, and ride-sharing and medical transport can be costly.

The score is influenced by the proximity of major healthcare facilities, such as Akron General and Summa Health System facilities. However, the reliance on highways and local roads for transportation introduces potential delays, particularly during peak hours. The availability of public transit and ride-sharing services provides alternatives, but they may not always be the most efficient or affordable options.

For individuals considering moving to Akron, specifically to the 44311 ZIP code, it is crucial to evaluate their personal healthcare needs and transportation preferences. Those who prioritize speed and convenience may find driving or ride-sharing to be the most suitable options, despite the potential for increased costs. Individuals who are comfortable with longer travel times and have limited budgets may find public transit to be a viable alternative.

Furthermore, individuals with mobility impairments or other healthcare needs should carefully consider the availability and accessibility of medical transport services. Planning ahead and understanding the limitations of each transportation option is essential for ensuring timely and reliable access to healthcare. The "Overall Health Score" is a starting point for a more in-depth assessment of healthcare access, highlighting the need for careful consideration of transportation options when making relocation decisions.