44608, Beach City, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44608, Beach City, Ohio is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.30 percent of residents in 44608 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 11.66 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Beach City (ZIP Code 44608)

Beach City, Ohio (ZIP Code 44608), a charming community nestled in the rolling hills, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents, factoring in transportation options, drive times, public transit availability, and ride-sharing services. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Beach City, ensuring they can readily access necessary medical care. This analysis offers a clear picture of healthcare accessibility and the potential impact on overall well-being.

The score is a composite of several elements, with transportation being a primary determinant. Proximity to medical facilities, the efficiency of travel routes, and the availability of alternative transportation methods all contribute to the final assessment. A higher score indicates better healthcare accessibility, reflecting shorter travel times, more diverse transportation options, and a greater likelihood of residents being able to reach medical appointments without significant difficulty. Conversely, a lower score suggests potential challenges, particularly for those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations.

**Drive Time and Roadways:**

Beach City’s location, while picturesque, necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for the majority of healthcare-related trips. The primary routes connecting Beach City to medical facilities are State Route 212 and State Route 93. Traveling east on State Route 212 offers access to Dover and New Philadelphia, where a variety of healthcare providers, including hospitals and specialist clinics, are located. The drive to Union Hospital in Dover, the nearest full-service hospital, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

State Route 93, heading north, provides access to Canton, a larger city with a more extensive range of healthcare options. The drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton typically takes around 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. The roads are generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, especially during winter, can significantly impact travel times. Rural roads, though scenic, can also present challenges with limited lighting and potential hazards.

The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle maintenance and insurance for Beach City residents. The time commitment to reach medical facilities can be a burden, especially for those with chronic conditions requiring frequent appointments. The distance to specialized care, such as advanced cardiology or oncology services, can also be a factor, potentially requiring longer travel times to larger regional medical centers.

**Public Transit: Limited Options:**

Public transportation options within and around Beach City are extremely limited. Tuscarawas County does offer a public transit service, but its routes and frequency are not designed to facilitate easy access to healthcare facilities. The service primarily operates on weekdays, with limited weekend availability. The routes are not specifically designed to cater to medical appointments, and the service’s reach is restricted.

Individuals with mobility limitations face additional challenges. While the public transit service is ADA-compliant, the limited routes and infrequent service make it difficult to rely on for regular medical appointments. The lack of sidewalks and accessible infrastructure in some areas further compounds these difficulties. This reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options emphasizes the need for careful planning and consideration of potential transportation barriers.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Beach City area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, particularly in inclement weather, is another consideration.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, these services typically require advance booking and can be expensive. The availability of these services may also be limited, potentially requiring residents to book appointments well in advance.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors outlined above, the "Overall Health Score" for commute to healthcare in Beach City (ZIP Code 44608) is moderate. While residents have access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative options, but they are not always reliable or affordable.

For individuals considering moving to Beach City, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and cost of alternative transportation options. It is recommended to research local medical transportation providers and establish relationships with healthcare providers in advance.

The community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded public transit routes, partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments, and increasing awareness of available medical transportation services. Such improvements would enhance healthcare access for all residents, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more vibrant community. The future of healthcare access in Beach City hinges on a collaborative approach, ensuring all residents can readily receive the care they need.