44510, Youngstown, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44510, Youngstown, Ohio is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.06 percent of residents in 44510 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.32 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital with a distance of 0.77 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44510**

Considering a move to Youngstown, Ohio, specifically ZIP Code 44510? Understanding the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. This analysis provides an “Overall Health Score” for 44510, focusing on transportation options and their impact on accessing medical facilities. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. Ultimately, this write-up aims to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access within this specific geographical area.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary arteries for navigating 44510 are Interstate 680 (I-680), U.S. Route 62 (US-62), and Market Street. Drive times to healthcare facilities are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours. For instance, traveling to Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, located a few miles south, can take anywhere from 10 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic congestion on I-680 and South Avenue.

The availability of healthcare access is not just about proximity; it is about the ease and efficiency of reaching medical care. A short drive time is ideal, but the reality of traffic and road conditions can significantly impact the experience. Residents should factor in the potential for delays when planning medical appointments.

**Public Transportation: A Critical Link**

The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides public transportation services within Youngstown and surrounding areas. Several WRTA routes serve 44510, including routes that directly connect to major healthcare facilities. For example, Route 10 (Market Street) and Route 11 (Mahoning Avenue) offer frequent service, making them viable options for individuals without personal vehicles.

WRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, public transit schedules and frequency can influence the overall health score. Limited evening and weekend service might pose challenges for those needing medical attention outside of standard business hours.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Youngstown. These services provide a convenient alternative to driving or relying solely on public transit. The availability of ride-sharing can significantly improve healthcare access, especially for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transport services also play a crucial role, particularly for those with specific medical needs. These services often cater to individuals requiring non-emergency medical transportation to and from appointments. Local providers such as MedExpress and American Medical Response (AMR) offer specialized transportation options, which can be arranged through healthcare providers or directly by patients.

**Healthcare Facilities and Their Accessibility**

The presence of healthcare facilities within or near 44510 directly impacts the health score. Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, mentioned earlier, is a major medical center. Its accessibility via various transportation modes is a key factor. In addition, numerous urgent care centers, primary care physicians, and specialist clinics are located throughout the area.

The distribution of these facilities and their proximity to public transit routes and major roadways are essential considerations. A well-distributed network of healthcare providers enhances the overall health score by providing residents with a wider range of options and reducing travel times.

**Factors Influencing the Overall Health Score**

The "Overall Health Score" for 44510 is influenced by several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant element. Shorter drive times, especially during peak hours, contribute positively to the score. The availability and reliability of public transit, including ADA accessibility, are also critical.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds to the score, providing alternative transportation options. The density of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers, plays a vital role. A higher density of facilities increases the score.

**Challenges and Considerations**

While 44510 offers various transportation options, challenges exist. Traffic congestion on I-680 and Market Street can increase drive times. Limited public transit service during evenings and weekends might restrict access for some residents. The cost of ride-sharing services can be a barrier for individuals with limited financial resources.

Weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can also impact transportation. Snow and ice can make driving hazardous and disrupt public transit schedules. Residents must consider these potential challenges when assessing healthcare access.

**Improving Healthcare Access**

Several strategies can improve healthcare access in 44510. Expanding WRTA service hours and frequency, especially during off-peak times, would be beneficial. Promoting ride-sharing programs and offering subsidies for low-income individuals could also improve access.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as traffic signal optimization and road maintenance, can reduce drive times. Encouraging the development of additional healthcare facilities within the area would also enhance accessibility.

**Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective**

The "Overall Health Score" for 44510 reflects a balanced perspective. While the area benefits from major roadways, public transit, and ride-sharing services, challenges remain. Drive times can be affected by traffic, and public transit service is limited during certain hours. However, the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, coupled with the presence of numerous healthcare facilities, contributes positively to the score.

For individuals considering moving to Youngstown, understanding these factors is essential. By evaluating the transportation options and healthcare resources available, potential residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The overall health score for 44510 indicates a reasonable level of healthcare access, with room for improvement through strategic initiatives and community support. Considering the location, with the right planning, healthcare access in 44510 is manageable.