44431, Leetonia, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44431, Leetonia, Ohio is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.30 percent of residents in 44431 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 4.74 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44431 (Leetonia, Ohio)

The overall health score for residents of Leetonia, Ohio (ZIP code 44431), reflects a complex interplay of factors, with **transportation** and **healthcare access** forming a critical intersection. The ability to readily reach medical facilities, specialists, and pharmacies significantly impacts overall well-being. This analysis delves into the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the healthcare landscape within and surrounding Leetonia, providing insights for residents and those **moving to Leetonia**.

The foundation of this assessment lies in understanding the available **transportation** options. Leetonia, a primarily rural community, presents unique hurdles. Personal vehicles are the dominant mode of travel. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are State Route 164, which runs through the heart of Leetonia, and U.S. Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare that intersects with SR 164. Interstate 76, a short drive north, provides a faster route to larger medical centers in the Akron/Canton area.

Drive times are a crucial consideration. The closest immediate care facilities are in Salem, Ohio, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via SR 164. These facilities offer urgent care services and basic medical attention. For more specialized care, residents often travel to hospitals in Salem, Alliance (via SR 183 and US 62), or Boardman (via SR 11). These trips can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination. Access to specialized care, like cardiology or oncology, often requires travel to larger regional hospitals, potentially increasing drive times significantly.

Public transit options are limited in Leetonia. The Columbiana County Transit (CCT) provides some service within the county, but routes are infrequent and primarily focused on serving essential needs. CCT does not have dedicated routes specifically designed for healthcare access from Leetonia. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible vehicles are available, but scheduling and route availability must be confirmed in advance. Residents relying on public transit may face significant delays and logistical challenges when seeking healthcare.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, which may be limited in a rural area like Leetonia. The cost of a ride-share can also be a significant barrier for some residents, especially for frequent appointments. Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies, are available for emergency situations, but are not typically used for routine appointments.

Healthcare access extends beyond simply reaching a doctor’s office. It includes access to pharmacies for medication refills, specialists for specific medical needs, and mental health services. Leetonia has a pharmacy within the town, providing convenient access to medications. However, access to specialists and mental health providers often requires travel to surrounding communities. This lack of readily available specialized care can exacerbate health disparities and delay timely treatment.

The availability of telehealth services offers a potential solution to some of the transportation challenges. Telehealth allows patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel. However, telehealth requires reliable internet access, which may be limited in some areas of Leetonia. Additionally, not all medical services can be effectively delivered through telehealth.

The health score also considers the availability of preventative care services. Access to primary care physicians, dentists, and other healthcare professionals for routine checkups and screenings is crucial for maintaining good health. The availability of these services in Leetonia and the surrounding areas impacts the overall health score.

The economic factors also play a vital role. The cost of **transportation**, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-sharing fees, can be a significant burden for low-income residents. This can make it difficult for them to afford healthcare services, even if they are geographically accessible. Insurance coverage, or lack thereof, further compounds these challenges.

The demographic makeup of Leetonia, including age and disability rates, also influences the health score. Elderly residents and individuals with disabilities may face greater challenges in accessing **transportation** and healthcare. The availability of accessible **transportation** options and healthcare facilities is particularly important for these populations.

The overall health score for residents of Leetonia, Ohio, is moderate. While the town offers basic healthcare services, access to specialized care, mental health services, and reliable **transportation** options presents significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access, especially for those with limited mobility, low incomes, or without personal vehicles.

For those **moving to Leetonia**, understanding these factors is crucial. Researching the availability of healthcare providers, assessing the cost of **transportation**, and considering the potential need for telehealth services are all essential steps. The community could benefit from initiatives aimed at improving **transportation** options, expanding telehealth access, and increasing the availability of specialized healthcare services.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transit, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and promoting telehealth adoption are all potential solutions. Furthermore, supporting community health programs and providing financial assistance for **transportation** costs can help improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

The healthcare landscape in Leetonia is dynamic. Ongoing efforts to improve access to care, coupled with technological advancements and community initiatives, can positively impact the overall health score. The key lies in recognizing the interconnectedness of **transportation**, healthcare, and community well-being.