44504, Youngstown, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44504, Youngstown, Ohio is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.04 percent of residents in 44504 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital with a distance of 0.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44504

Understanding the overall health of a community necessitates a deep dive into its healthcare access, a critical facet of which is the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape within Youngstown's 44504 ZIP code, focusing on the commute to healthcare, evaluating its strengths and weaknesses to provide an "Overall Health Score." This score will reflect the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, considering driving times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport.

The 44504 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Youngstown, Ohio, presents a complex transportation environment. The area is primarily served by major thoroughfares like Interstate 680 and US Route 422, with local arteries such as Mahoning Avenue and Market Street facilitating internal movement. Access to healthcare, therefore, is significantly influenced by these roadways, shaping the journey to vital medical appointments and emergency care.

Driving times, a primary indicator of healthcare access, vary considerably depending on the destination and time of day. Reaching major hospitals like Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, located just outside the ZIP code, typically takes between 10 to 20 minutes during off-peak hours via I-680 or Market Street. However, during rush hour, these times can easily double, creating a significant barrier for those with urgent medical needs or limited mobility. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, further complicates matters, potentially leading to delays and increased risk.

Public transportation, a crucial element of healthcare access for many, is provided by the Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA). Several bus routes traverse the 44504 area, offering potential connections to healthcare facilities. Route 1, for example, travels along Mahoning Avenue, providing access to various medical offices and clinics. Route 7 and Route 10, with their different routes, also provide access to healthcare. However, the frequency of these routes can be limited, particularly during evenings and weekends, and the travel times can be considerably longer than driving.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is essential for individuals with disabilities. WRTA strives to provide accessible services; however, the coverage and reliability of these services require consistent evaluation. The distance from bus stops to medical facilities can also pose a challenge for individuals with mobility issues, necessitating careful planning and consideration.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. While their availability has increased in recent years, their presence in Youngstown is not as robust as in larger metropolitan areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand, such as during a snowstorm, can make these services unaffordable for some residents, potentially limiting their access to healthcare.

Medical transport services, including specialized ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, such as Medstar Ambulance and Life Fleet, are crucial for patients who require assistance getting to and from appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, and waiting times may be a concern, particularly during peak demand.

Considering all these factors, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in the 44504 ZIP code is moderately positive. While the area benefits from a network of roads and the presence of major hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, several challenges persist. The reliance on personal vehicles can be a barrier for those without access to a car or the ability to drive. Public transportation, while available, has limitations in terms of frequency, coverage, and travel times. Ride-sharing services offer a supplementary option, but their cost and availability can be restrictive.

The score is also influenced by the potential for delays due to traffic congestion and weather conditions, particularly during peak hours and winter months. The availability and affordability of medical transport services are also critical factors.

Improving healthcare access in 44504 requires a multifaceted approach. Enhancements to WRTA services, including increased route frequency, extended hours, and improved ADA accessibility, are crucial. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Additionally, promoting awareness of available medical transport services and ensuring their affordability is essential.

For individuals considering moving to Youngstown, particularly those prioritizing healthcare access, the 44504 ZIP code presents both advantages and disadvantages. While the proximity to hospitals is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation should be carefully considered. Potential residents should assess their individual transportation needs and preferences, factoring in the potential for traffic delays and the availability of alternative transportation options.

Ultimately, the "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 44504 reflects a community striving to improve its healthcare infrastructure. Continued efforts to enhance transportation options, coupled with a focus on affordability and accessibility, will be vital in creating a healthier community for all residents. The future of healthcare access in this area hinges on strategic investments in transportation and a commitment to addressing the unique needs of its diverse population.