44441, Negley, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44441, Negley, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.14 percent of residents in 44441 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 16.42 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44441 (Negley, Ohio)

The assessment of healthcare access in Negley, Ohio (ZIP code 44441), reveals a complex interplay of factors influencing residents' overall health. This analysis considers transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, and the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services, ultimately providing an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching vital healthcare services. The score is not a numerical value but a descriptive evaluation of the challenges and opportunities within the community. For those considering moving to Negley, this provides a critical understanding of their healthcare landscape.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents in Negley is likely the personal vehicle. The geography of the area, characterized by rural landscapes and limited public transit infrastructure, necessitates a reliance on driving for healthcare appointments. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a crucial determinant of healthcare access, and these times can vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day.

The nearest significant medical centers are located outside of Negley. Reaching East Liverpool, Ohio, approximately 15 miles away, requires navigating a combination of local roads and Ohio State Route 11 (SR-11). This route can take between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location of the healthcare facility within East Liverpool. The presence of SR-11 is beneficial, as it offers a higher-speed alternative to local roads.

Traveling to Salem, Ohio, roughly 25 miles away, involves a longer journey, potentially 35 to 45 minutes, often utilizing SR-11 and US Route 62. This extended travel time can pose a significant challenge, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent medical attention. The reliance on these major thoroughfares, while offering faster travel, also exposes residents to potential delays due to accidents or road construction.

Public transportation options within Negley are severely limited. The absence of a dedicated local bus system or readily available public transit significantly restricts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. This lack of options disproportionately impacts the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The closest public transit options are likely located in the larger towns like East Liverpool or Salem. The availability of these services, if any, is not well-documented, and it is highly unlikely that any routes directly serve Negley. Even if such routes exist, they would likely be infrequent and lack the convenience and flexibility required for regular healthcare appointments.

The absence of public transit underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not guaranteed at all times. Availability might be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are available in the region. These services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, offer specialized transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs. However, these services often come with a higher cost and require prior arrangements, which may not be feasible for urgent or unexpected healthcare needs.

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Negley, Ohio (44441) is, therefore, moderately challenging. The reliance on personal vehicles for transportation is the primary mode, with drive times to healthcare facilities ranging from 20 to 45 minutes. The absence of reliable public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services exacerbate the challenges.

The lack of readily available transportation options creates barriers to healthcare access, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments, reduced preventative care, and poorer health outcomes. For individuals considering moving to Negley, this presents a crucial factor to consider when evaluating their healthcare needs.

The impact of this transportation landscape extends beyond the physical act of getting to an appointment. It can contribute to increased stress and anxiety for patients, especially those with chronic conditions or mobility issues. The time and effort required to arrange transportation can also detract from the overall quality of life.

The availability of medical transport services offers a valuable lifeline for some residents, but their cost and the need for pre-planning limit their accessibility. The lack of readily available transportation options, particularly for those without personal vehicles, highlights the need for community-based solutions.

The community could benefit from exploring options such as subsidized transportation programs, partnerships with ride-sharing services, or the expansion of existing medical transport services. These initiatives could significantly improve healthcare access for residents and contribute to a healthier community.

The challenges in transportation and healthcare access are not insurmountable. With proactive planning and community collaboration, Negley can work to improve the overall health and well-being of its residents. The goal should be to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare landscape, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The Overall Health Score reflects the need for ongoing efforts to address the transportation challenges and improve healthcare access in Negley, Ohio. This includes exploring innovative solutions, advocating for policy changes, and fostering community partnerships to create a healthier and more vibrant community.