44618, Dalton, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44618, Dalton, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.50 percent of residents in 44618 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Orrville Hospital with a distance of 5.02 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44618 (Dalton, Ohio)**

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access essential healthcare services. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 44618, focusing on the critical factor of commute to healthcare. We will examine the available transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, to assess the ease with which individuals can reach medical facilities. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Dalton, Ohio, and seeking to understand the practicalities of healthcare access.

ZIP Code 44618, encompassing the town of Dalton, Ohio, is primarily a rural and suburban area. The transportation landscape is largely shaped by personal vehicles. The primary roadways facilitating travel within and beyond the zip code are **US Route 30**, **State Route 21**, and **State Route 226**. These highways and roads are crucial arteries for accessing healthcare facilities in surrounding areas.

Drive times to healthcare providers within a reasonable radius are a significant component of our "Overall Health Score." For routine appointments and basic care, residents of Dalton can access the **Aultman Orrville Hospital** in Orrville, approximately a 10-15 minute drive via **State Route 226** and **US Route 30**. This proximity is a positive factor, contributing to a higher score. Specialist care and more advanced medical facilities, such as the **Cleveland Clinic Wooster Hospital**, are accessible within a 20-30 minute drive via **US Route 30**. While the drive time is longer, it remains manageable for most residents.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge for those without access to a car, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families. Public transportation options are limited in this area. The **Wayne County Transit** offers demand-response services. These services require advance booking and may have limited operational hours, thus potentially hindering healthcare access, especially for urgent or unscheduled medical needs.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of public transportation is a crucial factor in our evaluation. Wayne County Transit strives to provide accessible services, but the availability and reliability of such accommodations can vary. Residents with mobility impairments may face difficulties navigating the system, impacting their "Overall Health Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, and the cost can be a barrier for some individuals. The "Overall Health Score" considers the economic accessibility of these services.

Medical transport services also play a vital role in healthcare access, particularly for individuals requiring non-emergency medical transportation. Several providers operate in the region, including private ambulance companies and specialized medical transport services. The availability and affordability of these services are factored into the "Overall Health Score."

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the geographic distribution of healthcare facilities. While Aultman Orrville Hospital is conveniently located, the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers within the immediate vicinity of Dalton is an important consideration. A higher concentration of healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance contributes to a higher score.

The ability to access healthcare is not just about the physical journey; it also encompasses the ease of scheduling appointments, the availability of telehealth services, and the availability of translation services for non-English speakers. The "Overall Health Score" takes these factors into account.

The "Overall Health Score" for commute to healthcare in ZIP Code 44618 is moderate. The proximity of Aultman Orrville Hospital and the availability of ride-sharing services are positive factors. However, the limited public transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for fluctuating availability and cost of ride-sharing services present challenges.

The "Overall Health Score" also reflects the importance of proactive measures to improve healthcare access. This includes initiatives to promote public transportation, expand ride-sharing programs, and support medical transport services. Investment in these areas can significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" for residents of Dalton, Ohio.

For individuals considering moving to Dalton, Ohio, understanding the transportation landscape and the realities of healthcare access is essential. While the area offers certain advantages, potential residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services that meet their specific requirements.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a static metric. It can evolve as the community invests in improving transportation infrastructure, expands healthcare services, and addresses the needs of vulnerable populations. The ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access will undoubtedly shape the health and well-being of the residents of ZIP Code 44618.

The "Overall Health Score" also considers the impact of socioeconomic factors on healthcare access. Income levels, employment rates, and access to health insurance are crucial determinants of an individual's ability to seek and receive medical care. The "Overall Health Score" acknowledges the interconnectedness of these factors.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for commute to healthcare in ZIP Code 44618 reflects a complex interplay of factors. While the area offers certain advantages, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. The ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure, expand healthcare services, and address the needs of vulnerable populations will be crucial in shaping the health and well-being of the residents of Dalton, Ohio. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a valuable tool for assessing the current state of healthcare access and identifying areas for improvement.