44408, Columbiana, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44408, Columbiana, Ohio is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.90 percent of residents in 44408 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44408

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a crucial consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially when assessing the overall health and well-being of a community. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 44408, encompassing the charming town of Columbiana, Ohio, and aims to provide a comprehensive "Overall Health Score" based on the ease and efficiency of transportation to various healthcare facilities. The score will consider drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, painting a clear picture for prospective residents.

Columbiana, nestled in the heart of northeastern Ohio, offers a blend of rural tranquility and convenient access to essential services. However, the geography of the area necessitates careful evaluation of transportation options to healthcare providers. The "Overall Health Score" will reflect the degree to which residents can readily access the medical care they need, factoring in potential barriers and highlighting the strengths of the existing infrastructure. This is particularly important for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments.

**Drive Times: The Primary Mode of Transportation**

For many residents of 44408, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities. The efficiency of this system hinges on the road network and traffic conditions. Major arteries like **State Route 11** (SR-11) provide a north-south link, offering relatively quick access to healthcare centers in nearby towns. Traveling south on SR-11 can take residents to the Salem Regional Medical Center, a well-regarded facility, with drive times averaging between 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.

East-west travel relies heavily on **State Route 14** (SR-14), which connects Columbiana to the city of East Palestine and beyond. While the drive to East Palestine might be shorter, accessing larger hospitals or specialized care often requires travel to Youngstown or Boardman, both of which are roughly 30-45 minutes away via SR-11 and the **Ohio Turnpike** (I-76). The Ohio Turnpike offers a faster, toll-based option, but its cost must be factored into the overall cost of healthcare access.

The drive to larger medical centers in Youngstown, such as Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, is a critical consideration. Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Planning appointments with these factors in mind is essential for residents. Furthermore, the condition of local roads, including secondary roads like **East Park Avenue** and **South Main Street**, can affect travel times, especially during inclement weather.

**Public Transit: Limited but Present**

Public transit options in 44408 are limited but offer a valuable alternative for those without personal vehicles or who prefer not to drive. The Columbiana County Transit operates within the county, offering demand-response services. While the routes and schedules are not fixed, riders can schedule rides to medical appointments. This service is particularly important for elderly residents and those with disabilities.

Unfortunately, the frequency and coverage of public transit are limited, potentially posing challenges for individuals requiring frequent appointments or those needing to reach facilities outside the immediate Columbiana area. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a crucial consideration, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access the service. The specific route numbers and schedules should be investigated directly with Columbiana County Transit.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 44408 area, offering another transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services can vary depending on the time of day and demand. Residents should be aware of potential surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand. Ride-sharing can be particularly useful for urgent care needs or when other transportation options are unavailable.

Medical transport services play a crucial role in providing transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Several medical transport providers operate in the area, offering services such as ambulance transport and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are often covered by insurance, making them a viable option for those who qualify.

**Medical Transport Brands and Availability**

Several medical transport brands serve the 44408 area. **STAT MedEvac** provides air medical transport, offering rapid response in critical situations. For less urgent needs, companies such as **American Medical Response (AMR)** and local ambulance services provide ground transportation. The availability of these services and their associated costs should be carefully considered.

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, such as **First Transit** and other local companies, offer transportation for appointments and other medical needs. These services often cater to individuals with disabilities or those who cannot drive themselves. The availability of NEMT services and the ease of scheduling appointments are crucial factors in assessing healthcare access.

**Overall Health Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 44408 is a complex calculation. While the area benefits from relatively short drive times to some healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides additional support, but their reliability and cost must be considered.

The score should reflect the following factors: average drive times to key healthcare facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. The presence of ADA-accessible transportation options is also a key factor.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To enhance the "Overall Health Score," several improvements could be considered. Increased investment in public transit, including expanded routes and increased frequency, would benefit residents without personal vehicles. Promoting ride-sharing services and ensuring their availability in the area is crucial. Furthermore, expanding the availability of NEMT services and streamlining the scheduling process would improve healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations.

**Conclusion: Moving to Columbiana and Healthcare Access**

Moving to Columbiana (44408) offers a lifestyle that blends the charm of a small town with the convenience of access to essential services. When considering a move, potential residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess the available transportation options. The "Overall Health Score" provides a framework for understanding the current state of healthcare access and identifying potential challenges. By considering the factors outlined in this analysis, prospective residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can readily access the medical care they require. The availability of transportation is paramount to the well-being of the community.