44627, Fredericksburg, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44627, Fredericksburg, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.02 percent of residents in 44627 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 8.53 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Fredericksburg, OH (ZIP Code 44627)

Nestled in the heart of Wayne County, Ohio, the quaint village of Fredericksburg (ZIP code 44627) offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle. However, the serenity of small-town living can sometimes present challenges when it comes to accessing essential healthcare services. This comprehensive analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" by examining the various transportation options available to residents seeking medical care, considering factors such as drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This is particularly crucial for those considering moving to Fredericksburg, as healthcare access is a vital component of overall well-being.

The "Overall Health Score" is a multifaceted assessment, not a single numerical value. It considers the accessibility, affordability, and reliability of transportation options to healthcare facilities. This score is designed to provide a realistic picture of the healthcare landscape for residents of Fredericksburg.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure:**

For many Fredericksburg residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to significant healthcare providers involves navigating the local road network. The village is conveniently located near State Route 241, which connects to larger thoroughfares. Traveling east on State Route 241, one can quickly access US Route 62, a major east-west artery. This route leads to Wooster, the county seat, where the Wooster Community Hospital, a part of the Cleveland Clinic Health System, offers a wide range of medical services. The drive to Wooster typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city.

Further afield, access to specialized care may necessitate longer drives. Heading west on US Route 62 leads to Millersburg, approximately a 30-40 minute drive, where patients can access additional medical facilities. Traveling north on State Route 241 and connecting to Interstate 76 (I-76) allows for access to Akron and Cleveland, where specialized care is readily available. However, these trips can take upwards of an hour or more, depending on traffic. The condition of the roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and safety.

**Public Transportation Options:**

Public transportation options in Fredericksburg and the surrounding areas are limited. The Wayne County Transit (WCT) provides public transportation services within Wayne County. However, service to Fredericksburg is infrequent and primarily focuses on providing transportation to essential services, including medical appointments. The WCT’s routes are not extensive, and scheduling requires advanced planning. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a significant advantage for individuals with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to healthcare. However, the limited frequency of routes and the need for pre-booking can make public transit a less convenient option for urgent or spontaneous medical needs.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their presence may be less consistent compared to larger metropolitan areas. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. This makes relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments risky.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be more expensive than other options and require advance booking.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for Fredericksburg reflects the balance between the advantages and disadvantages of the available transportation options. While the proximity to Wooster and its healthcare facilities is a significant benefit, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation pose challenges. Residents without access to a car, or those unable to drive due to age or disability, face significant barriers to healthcare access.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options provides alternatives, but their cost and reliability must be considered. The overall accessibility of healthcare is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities in or near Fredericksburg can significantly reduce the need for long-distance travel.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of Fredericksburg, the "Overall Health Score" suggests a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. The primary mode of transportation, the personal vehicle, offers the most flexibility and control over travel times. However, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create challenges for those without access to a car. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net, but at a higher cost.

When considering moving to Fredericksburg, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services. Individuals who are dependent on public transportation or have limited mobility should research the availability and reliability of medical transportation services. The overall health score for Fredericksburg is influenced by the transportation options available, the cost, and the ease of access to medical care.

The "Overall Health Score" is not static. It can be improved through investments in public transportation, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the development of healthcare facilities within the community. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure their well-being.