44460, Salem, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44460, Salem, Ohio is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.88 percent of residents in 44460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.01 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 2.16 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44460

The quaint community nestled in ZIP Code 44460, Salem, Ohio, presents a unique tapestry of healthcare access, intricately woven with the threads of transportation. This assessment delves into the realities of navigating this landscape, offering an "Overall Health Score" predicated on the ease with which residents can reach vital medical services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of the community's ability to support the health and well-being of its inhabitants.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Salem, like many communities, is the automobile. For those considering moving to Salem, understanding the road network is paramount. The primary artery for travel is State Route 45, which snakes through the heart of the city, offering direct access to Salem Regional Medical Center, the area's primary healthcare provider. Other crucial routes include U.S. Route 62, providing east-west connectivity, and State Route 14, which facilitates access to neighboring towns and healthcare facilities.

Drive times to Salem Regional Medical Center, the focal point for most healthcare needs, are generally favorable for residents within the city limits. However, the journey becomes more complex for those residing on the periphery or in surrounding townships. Peak traffic hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can add significant time to these journeys, impacting healthcare access, especially for those with urgent medical needs. The smooth flow of traffic on these routes is a critical factor in determining the overall health score.

Public transportation, while present, plays a limited role in healthcare access within 44460. The Salem Area Mass Transit Authority (SAMTA) operates a bus service, offering routes that connect key areas of the city. However, the frequency of service and the geographical reach of the routes may not adequately serve all residents, particularly those living in more rural areas or with mobility limitations. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a positive aspect, ensuring inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

The absence of a comprehensive public transit system places a greater reliance on personal vehicles, potentially exacerbating healthcare access challenges for individuals without access to a car or those unable to drive. This limitation underscores the importance of alternative transportation options.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as viable alternatives in many communities. However, their availability and reliability in Salem may vary. The presence of these services can significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other forms of transportation. The cost of these services, however, can be a barrier for some, especially those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, offer a crucial lifeline for those requiring specialized transportation. These services typically include ambulances for emergency situations and non-emergency medical transport for appointments and other healthcare-related travel. The availability and responsiveness of these services are critical factors in the overall health score, particularly for individuals with chronic illnesses or mobility limitations.

The interplay of these factors creates a nuanced picture of healthcare access in 44460. The overall health score is therefore contingent on a multifaceted approach that considers the strengths and weaknesses of each mode of transportation.

The ease of access to Salem Regional Medical Center is a significant positive. The hospital's central location and the relatively short drive times for many residents contribute to a favorable healthcare access environment. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges, particularly for those without access to a car or those with mobility limitations.

The availability of ride-sharing services, while potentially beneficial, may be limited and subject to cost considerations. The presence of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for individuals with specific needs, but the responsiveness and availability of these services must be consistently reliable.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 44460 is therefore considered to be moderate. While the presence of Salem Regional Medical Center and the relatively short drive times for many residents are positive factors, the limitations of public transit, the potential variability of ride-sharing services, and the dependence on personal vehicles create challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Salem, careful consideration should be given to their transportation needs and their ability to access healthcare services. Those reliant on public transit or with mobility limitations should investigate the availability and accessibility of SAMTA routes and medical transport services. Prospective residents should also assess their proximity to Salem Regional Medical Center and other healthcare providers.

The future of healthcare access in 44460 could be improved through initiatives that enhance public transit, promote ride-sharing services, and ensure the availability of affordable medical transport. Investments in these areas would significantly elevate the overall health score and improve the well-being of the community. Such enhancements would make Salem an even more attractive destination for those seeking a community with accessible healthcare options.