44507, Youngstown, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44507, Youngstown, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

91.65 percent of residents in 44507 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital with a distance of 2.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Youngstown (ZIP Code 44507)

Youngstown, Ohio, a city steeped in industrial history, presents a unique landscape for assessing overall health, particularly concerning **healthcare access** within the 44507 ZIP code. This analysis delves into the complexities of **transportation** options, examining drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing possibilities to determine an "Overall Health Score" for residents seeking medical attention. The score reflects the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach vital healthcare services.

**The Score:** We will establish a scoring system for each transportation method, then average them to arrive at an overall score. Each category (driving, public transit, ride-sharing, medical transport) will be graded on a scale of 1-5, with 1 representing extremely difficult access and 5 representing effortless access. The final score will be an average of these individual scores.

**Driving: Navigating the Roads to Wellness**

Driving remains a primary mode of **transportation** in Youngstown. The 44507 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of the city, necessitates understanding the road network for effective healthcare access. The primary arteries for reaching medical facilities are Interstate 680 (I-680), connecting to major hospitals, and the Ohio Route 7, which runs north-south, providing access to various clinics and specialist offices. US Route 422 also plays a role, particularly for those residing in the western reaches of the ZIP code.

Commuting times, however, are variable. During peak hours, particularly weekdays between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, traffic congestion can significantly impact travel times. The distance to major hospitals, such as Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, can range from 10 to 20 minutes under normal conditions, but can easily double during rush hour. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities within the 44507 area offer quicker access for less critical needs.

Parking availability at medical facilities is generally adequate, though it can become challenging during peak hours. Considering these factors, driving receives a score of 3.

**Public Transit: A Network of Accessibility**

The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides public **transportation** services within Youngstown. Several bus routes serve the 44507 ZIP code, offering an alternative to driving, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Key routes include the 1, 2, and 7, which traverse significant portions of the city and provide access to healthcare facilities.

WRTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. This is a crucial element for ensuring **healthcare access** for all residents. However, the frequency of bus routes can be a limiting factor. Headways, or the time between buses, can range from 30 minutes to an hour, which can extend travel times significantly.

The WRTA also offers a demand-response service, providing door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities who cannot use fixed-route buses. This service, while beneficial, requires advance booking and may have limited availability. Considering the route frequency, travel times, and the availability of demand-response services, public transit receives a score of 2.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Modern Solutions for Healthcare Access**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Youngstown, offering a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. These services can provide on-demand transportation to medical appointments, eliminating the need for parking or navigating traffic. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, especially those with frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by private companies, are also available for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services often provide transportation for individuals with mobility limitations or those who need medical supervision during transit. These services, though essential for some, are often the most expensive option.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services enhances **healthcare access**, particularly for those who cannot drive or utilize public transit. Considering the cost and availability, ride-sharing receives a score of 3, while medical transport services receive a score of 4.

**Overall Health Score: A Composite View**

The Overall Health Score is calculated by averaging the scores from each **transportation** category:

* Driving: 3
* Public Transit: 2
* Ride-Sharing: 3
* Medical Transport: 4

The average score is (3 + 2 + 3 + 4) / 4 = 3. This indicates a moderate level of **healthcare access** within the 44507 ZIP code. While driving and ride-sharing offer reasonable access, the limitations of public transit and the cost of medical transport services present challenges for some residents.

**Considerations for Moving to Youngstown:**

For individuals considering **moving to Youngstown**, the Overall Health Score provides valuable insights into the ease of accessing healthcare. The 44507 ZIP code offers a mix of options, but potential residents should carefully consider their individual needs and circumstances. Those who rely on public transit or have limited mobility may face greater challenges.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Wellness**

The Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in the 44507 ZIP code reflects a complex interplay of **transportation** options. While driving and ride-sharing provide convenient access, the limitations of public transit and the cost of medical transport services highlight the need for continued efforts to improve accessibility. Enhancements to public transit, such as increased frequency and expanded routes, could significantly improve the Overall Health Score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.