44427, Kensington, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44427, Kensington, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.31 percent of residents in 44427 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.43 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44427 (Kensington, Ohio)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis assesses the ease with which residents of Kensington, Ohio (ZIP code 44427) can reach medical facilities, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options. This evaluation considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Kensington.

Kensington, nestled in Columbiana County, presents a unique challenge. Its rural character often translates to longer travel times to essential services. This analysis aims to quantify these challenges, providing prospective residents with a realistic understanding of their healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary mode of transportation in Kensington is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Assessing drive times to healthcare facilities is, therefore, paramount. The closest significant healthcare hub is East Liverpool, Ohio, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **State Route 11** and **State Route 30**. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Youngstown, Ohio, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Youngstown, offering a wider range of medical specialists and hospitals, is roughly a 45-60 minute drive via **State Route 11** and the **Ohio Turnpike (I-76)**. The **Ohio Turnpike** provides a faster route, but tolls must be considered.

Pittsburgh, a major medical center, presents a longer journey. Expect a drive of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, predominantly via **State Route 30** and the **Pennsylvania Turnpike (I-76)**. This longer commute necessitates careful planning, especially for appointments or emergencies. Traffic, particularly around Pittsburgh, can significantly impact travel times.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation options in Kensington are limited. Columbiana County does offer a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are designed to serve the broader county, not specifically Kensington. The availability of buses and their schedules are essential for anyone considering moving to Kensington without a personal vehicle.

The primary transit provider, the **Columbiana County Transit**, offers demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service is not ideal for urgent healthcare needs. The routes may not directly serve all medical facilities, potentially requiring multiple transfers.

While the county transit system aims to be ADA-accessible, it's crucial to confirm the availability of accessible vehicles and the ease of boarding/disembarking for individuals with mobility challenges. The limited frequency of service and the need for advance scheduling significantly impact the overall score for public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability in Kensington are variable. Ride availability can be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including **MedExpress Transportation** and **First Transit**. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist passengers.

However, medical transport services typically require pre-booking and can be more expensive than other transportation options. The availability of these services and the insurance coverage for their use are crucial considerations.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Based on the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for residents of ZIP code 44427 is **Moderate**. While the proximity to East Liverpool provides relatively quick access to basic healthcare, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges.

The longer travel times to Youngstown and Pittsburgh for specialized care are a significant concern. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative solutions, but their cost and availability can be limiting.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Enhance Public Transit:** Advocate for increased public transit frequency and route expansion, particularly to serve medical facilities in East Liverpool, Youngstown, and Pittsburgh. Explore partnerships with local healthcare providers to offer subsidized transportation for patients.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Programs:** Encourage the expansion of ride-sharing services in Kensington, potentially through local government initiatives or partnerships with healthcare providers.
* **Increase Medical Transport Awareness:** Raise awareness of available medical transport services and their eligibility requirements. Provide information on insurance coverage and financial assistance programs.
* **Explore Telehealth Options:** Encourage the adoption of telehealth services by local healthcare providers to reduce the need for in-person appointments, especially for routine check-ups and consultations.
* **Community Education:** Educate residents on transportation options, appointment scheduling, and emergency procedures.

**Conclusion:**

For individuals considering moving to Kensington, Ohio, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. While the community offers a degree of healthcare accessibility, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit require careful consideration. By actively addressing the identified challenges and implementing the recommended improvements, Kensington can strive to create a healthier and more accessible environment for all its residents. The Overall Health Score serves as a starting point for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and enhance the quality of life for those living in this charming, yet geographically challenging, community. The future of healthcare access in Kensington hinges on proactive measures that prioritize the well-being of its residents and ensure that transportation limitations do not become barriers to vital medical care.