44418, Fowler, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44418, Fowler, Ohio is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.30 percent of residents in 44418 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 30.14 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Fowler, Ohio (ZIP Code 44418)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Fowler, Ohio (ZIP Code 44418), requires a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, heavily influenced by transportation options. This analysis considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities facing those seeking healthcare in this rural community. Moving to Fowler necessitates understanding these factors to ensure optimal well-being.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Fowler is the automobile. The primary arteries for travel are State Route 305, State Route 7, and State Route 87. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near Cortland and Warren, increasing drive times to essential medical facilities. The average drive time to the nearest urgent care facility in Cortland, approximately 10 miles away, is around 15-20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, during rush hour, this commute can extend to 30 minutes or more.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Warren or Youngstown. Accessing Trumbull Memorial Hospital in Warren, roughly 15 miles distant, typically requires a 25-35 minute drive, depending on traffic flow on State Route 5 and State Route 46. The drive to St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, approximately 25 miles away, takes about 40-50 minutes via State Route 82 and the Ohio Turnpike. These longer commutes highlight the importance of reliable transportation and the potential impact on timely healthcare access.

Public transit options in Fowler are limited, significantly impacting healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides some service to the area, but routes are infrequent and primarily focus on connecting to larger population centers like Warren and Youngstown. Route 71, for example, might offer a connection to Warren, but the schedule may not align with medical appointments, and the overall travel time could be significantly longer than driving. ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit users. WRTA buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, but the limited route frequency and potential for lengthy travel times remain significant barriers.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive or without access to a vehicle. However, the availability of these services in Fowler can be inconsistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make them an expensive option. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is also a concern, as delays or cancellations can disrupt healthcare access.

Specialized medical transportation services cater to individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. Companies like MedStar and First Transit offer these services, but they often require advance booking and can be costly. These services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing assistance during transport, but their availability and cost can be a barrier for some residents.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Fowler, Ohio, is moderately impacted by the constraints of transportation. While the area benefits from proximity to healthcare facilities in neighboring towns, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services create challenges. The absence of readily available and affordable transportation options can particularly affect vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant factor. The time spent traveling to appointments can impact the overall healthcare experience, potentially leading to missed appointments or delayed treatment. Furthermore, the cost of transportation, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, adds to the financial burden of healthcare.

The availability of public transit, while limited, offers a crucial lifeline for some residents. However, the infrequent schedules and potential for lengthy travel times make it a less-than-ideal option for many. Enhancing public transit services, including increasing route frequency and expanding service areas, would significantly improve healthcare access for those who rely on public transportation.

Ride-sharing services provide a flexible option, but their availability and cost can be unpredictable. Efforts to increase the presence of ride-sharing services in Fowler and to offer subsidized fares for medical appointments could improve healthcare access.

Medical transportation services are essential for individuals with specific needs, but their cost and the requirement for advance booking can be challenging. Expanding the availability of these services and exploring options for financial assistance could improve healthcare access for this vulnerable population.

The healthcare landscape in Fowler, and the overall health score, is intricately linked to transportation. Improving healthcare access requires a multi-faceted approach, including enhancing public transit, promoting ride-sharing services, and supporting medical transportation options. As more people consider moving to Fowler, understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Addressing the transportation challenges will be essential for ensuring that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community.