44615, Carrollton, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44615, Carrollton, Ohio is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.46 percent of residents in 44615 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Twin City Medical Center with a distance of 16.84 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Carrollton, Ohio (ZIP Code 44615)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Carrollton, Ohio, necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of healthcare access, with a particular focus on transportation. The ability to reach medical facilities safely, efficiently, and affordably is a cornerstone of public health. This analysis delves into the realities of commuting to healthcare within ZIP code 44615, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport provisions. The goal is to paint a clear picture for those considering moving to Carrollton, highlighting the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access.

The primary mode of transportation in Carrollton for healthcare appointments is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The area is predominantly rural, and the distances to medical facilities often necessitate driving. Major roadways influencing healthcare access include **US Route 30**, which provides east-west connectivity, and **State Route 43**, running north-south. Local roads like **High Street** and **Lincoln Avenue** within Carrollton itself serve as arteries to local clinics and medical offices. Drive times vary considerably depending on the destination and the time of day.

For residents seeking primary care, the Carroll County Health Department offers services within the town. Drive times to this facility are typically minimal, representing a significant advantage for local residents. However, specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities.

**Alliance Community Hospital**, located approximately 25 miles east, is a common destination. Driving to Alliance via US Route 30 typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic. **Aultman Hospital** in Canton, about 40 miles to the east, is another major healthcare provider. The drive to Aultman via US Route 30 and State Route 43 can take up to an hour, particularly during peak traffic hours. The distance and travel time to these facilities are critical factors in determining the overall health score for the area.

Public transportation options in Carrollton are limited. There is no established public bus system within the town itself. The **Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA)**, a regional transit provider, does offer limited service in the surrounding areas, but its routes do not directly serve Carrollton. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles, the elderly, and those with disabilities.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration for any public transit system. Without a local bus system, ADA-compliant transportation options are virtually non-existent. This creates a substantial barrier to healthcare access for individuals with mobility impairments, further lowering the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Carrollton area, though their availability may be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, making it an unreliable and potentially expensive option for regular healthcare appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing services adds an element of uncertainty to the overall health score.

Medical transport services are available for those who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. **LifeCare Ambulance** and **Carroll County EMS** provide emergency and non-emergency medical transport services. These services are essential for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize other forms of transportation. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and its availability may be limited, further impacting the overall health score.

The presence of medical transport services, while vital, underscores the challenges faced by many residents. The need for specialized transportation highlights the limitations of other options and the potential financial burden associated with healthcare access. This factor must be carefully considered when evaluating the overall health score.

Evaluating the overall health score requires a nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of transportation and healthcare access. The absence of a robust public transit system, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services all contribute to a lower score. The drive times to larger medical centers, while not excessive, add to the time commitment and potential stress associated with healthcare appointments.

For individuals considering moving to Carrollton, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. While the town offers a close-knit community and a lower cost of living, the challenges associated with healthcare access must be carefully weighed. The availability of local primary care is a positive factor, but the need to travel for specialized care is a significant consideration.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Carrollton, Ohio (ZIP code 44615), is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While local primary care is readily available, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create challenges for some residents. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative solutions, but their availability and cost can be limiting factors.

The overall health score is not solely determined by transportation. Other factors, such as access to healthy food options, the availability of preventative care services, and the overall health of the community, also play a role. However, transportation is a critical component, and its limitations in Carrollton impact the overall health score.

Improving healthcare access in Carrollton could involve several strategies. Investing in public transit options, even limited routes, would significantly benefit residents without personal vehicles. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial. Expanding telehealth services could reduce the need for in-person visits, particularly for routine check-ups and consultations.

The ongoing assessment of healthcare access and transportation options is essential for maintaining and improving the overall health score in Carrollton. By addressing the challenges and exploring innovative solutions, the community can create a healthier environment for all its residents.