44451, North Jackson, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44451, North Jackson, Ohio is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.47 percent of residents in 44451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.88 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital with a distance of 10.79 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in North Jackson, OH (ZIP Code 44451)

The health of a community is intricately woven with its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the ease with which residents of North Jackson, Ohio (ZIP Code 44451) can reach essential medical services, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation infrastructure, available options, and potential challenges. For those considering **moving to North Jackson**, understanding this landscape is crucial.

The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transport. This analysis aims to paint a comprehensive picture, allowing residents and potential newcomers to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

North Jackson, a rural community nestled in Mahoning County, presents a unique set of circumstances for healthcare access. The primary challenge lies in its relative distance from major medical centers and the limited public transportation infrastructure. This necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for most residents.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The backbone of healthcare access in North Jackson rests on the efficiency of its road network. The primary thoroughfare is **Mahoning Avenue (State Route 45)**, which acts as the main artery connecting North Jackson to surrounding towns and cities. Driving times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by this road and the traffic flow it supports.

For routine appointments, the **Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital** is approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. This is a major regional hospital, offering a comprehensive range of medical services. The route typically involves navigating Mahoning Avenue and then connecting to **Interstate 680** or **State Route 11**.

Specialized care, such as those offered at the **Akron Children's Hospital** in Boardman, Ohio, requires a longer commute, typically 35-45 minutes. This journey involves traveling on Mahoning Avenue and connecting to **U.S. Route 224** and then **Interstate 680**. The distance highlights the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for delays due to traffic or weather conditions.

Emergency situations demand swift access to medical care. The close proximity of the **Austintown Township Fire Department** and the **Jackson Township Fire Department** offers quick response times. However, the subsequent transport to a hospital, especially in the event of a serious medical emergency, remains reliant on the efficiency of the road network.

**Public Transit Assessment:**

Public transportation options in North Jackson are limited. The **Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA)** provides bus services in the Youngstown-Warren area, but its routes are sparse in the rural areas. There is no direct route serving North Jackson, making public transit a less viable option for most residents.

The lack of readily accessible public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a vehicle, those with mobility limitations, or those unable to drive. This underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation methods and the potential need for community-based solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Youngstown area. However, their reliability in North Jackson, especially during off-peak hours or inclement weather, can be unpredictable. Availability depends on driver density and demand.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals requiring assistance to and from medical appointments. **American Medical Response (AMR)** and **Priority Ambulance** are among the providers operating in the region. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical supervision during transport.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport can be a significant factor, particularly for those with limited financial resources. These expenses add to the overall cost of healthcare access and can create further barriers for vulnerable populations.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility in public transportation and healthcare facilities. While WRTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, the lack of direct service to North Jackson limits their utility. Healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, are required to meet ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for patients with disabilities.

**Overall Health Score:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in North Jackson, Ohio (ZIP Code 44451) is **moderately impacted**. While residents have access to quality healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for unreliable ride-sharing services pose challenges.

The absence of robust public transportation and the dependence on personal vehicles create vulnerabilities for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a car. This is a critical consideration for those contemplating **moving to North Jackson**, particularly if they have mobility limitations or rely on public transit in their current location.

The score reflects a community where healthcare access is achievable but requires careful planning and consideration of alternative transportation options. Further investment in public transit, ride-sharing partnerships, and community-based transportation solutions could significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance the well-being of North Jackson residents.

The availability of medical transport services offers a crucial safety net for individuals with specific needs. However, the cost and availability of these services should be considered when evaluating healthcare access.

**Recommendations:**

* Explore the feasibility of extending WRTA routes to serve North Jackson.
* Promote ride-sharing programs and partnerships with local healthcare providers.
* Investigate the development of a community-based transportation service for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
* Educate residents about available medical transport services and their eligibility criteria.
* Encourage healthcare providers to offer telehealth options to reduce the need for in-person appointments.

By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, North Jackson can enhance its "Overall Health Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need. The health of the community is directly related to its ability to navigate the landscape of **transportation** and **healthcare access**, making it a key consideration for anyone **moving to North Jackson**.