44430, Leavittsburg, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44430, Leavittsburg, Ohio is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.32 percent of residents in 44430 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 23.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44430 (Leavittsburg, Ohio)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 44430, Leavittsburg, Ohio, focusing on the crucial aspect of transportation to healthcare facilities. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation availability, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to this area or simply evaluating its healthcare accessibility.

Leavittsburg, a small community nestled in Trumbull County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. While the area boasts a rural charm, the proximity to larger towns and cities like Warren and Youngstown significantly impacts the availability of medical services. The overall health score, therefore, is a complex calculation, weighing the convenience and efficiency of transportation options against potential challenges.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Wellness**

The primary mode of transportation for most Leavittsburg residents is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode, however, is contingent on the road network. Traveling to healthcare appointments in 44430 largely relies on the smooth flow of traffic along key arteries. State Route 5, a critical east-west thoroughfare, provides direct access to Warren and its concentration of medical facilities. Expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes to reach Trumbull Memorial Hospital, a major healthcare provider.

Travel south on State Route 5 and you will quickly intersect with the Ohio Turnpike (I-80). This provides access to healthcare facilities in Youngstown. The drive time to St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, for example, can vary between 30-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. Similarly, accessing specialized care in Cleveland, approximately an hour and a half away via I-80, is feasible but requires careful planning.

Local roads like State Route 87 and Leavittsburg-Lordstown Road provide connections to smaller clinics and physician offices within the immediate vicinity. These routes, while shorter in distance, can be subject to slower speeds and potential delays due to local traffic. Overall, drive times are generally reasonable for routine appointments within the Warren area, but longer distances to specialized care or major hospitals require careful consideration of travel time.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Leavittsburg are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without access to a personal vehicle. The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides bus service throughout Trumbull County. However, service frequency and route coverage in Leavittsburg are restricted.

The primary WRTA route serving the area is Route 71, which connects Leavittsburg to Warren. This route typically operates on a limited schedule, with reduced service on weekends and evenings. ADA-accessible buses are available on this route, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency necessitates careful planning and can significantly extend travel times to healthcare appointments.

Unfortunately, direct public transit options to Youngstown or other regional healthcare hubs are virtually nonexistent from Leavittsburg. This necessitates transfers and significantly increases travel time, making public transit a less viable option for many residents.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Leavittsburg area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some residents, especially for frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the region. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, eligibility requirements and prior booking are typically necessary, and the cost can vary depending on the distance and level of care required.

**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Perspective**

Considering all factors, the Overall Health Score for transportation to healthcare in ZIP Code 44430 presents a mixed picture. While the drive times to Warren are relatively manageable, the limited public transit options and the potential challenges of ride-sharing and medical transport services introduce significant complexities.

The score is further influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity. Leavittsburg itself has limited medical facilities. The reliance on Warren and Youngstown for comprehensive healthcare services necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics.

For individuals with reliable access to a personal vehicle, healthcare access in Leavittsburg is generally satisfactory. However, for those reliant on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transportation, the challenges are more pronounced. Careful planning, pre-booking, and consideration of potential delays are crucial.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several key areas warrant attention. Enhancing WRTA service frequency and route coverage, particularly to connect Leavittsburg with Youngstown, would significantly improve healthcare access for residents without personal vehicles. Promoting awareness of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, including cost assistance programs, can also benefit the community. Finally, encouraging the establishment of additional healthcare providers within Leavittsburg would reduce the reliance on travel and improve overall healthcare accessibility.

In conclusion, the decision to move to Leavittsburg and its impact on healthcare access requires careful consideration of individual circumstances and transportation needs. While the area offers a peaceful environment, the availability and efficiency of transportation to healthcare facilities are crucial factors to evaluate. The Overall Health Score, therefore, reflects a need for proactive measures to improve access for all residents, ensuring that healthcare is readily available regardless of individual transportation capabilities.