44656, Mineral City, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44656, Mineral City, Ohio is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.52 percent of residents in 44656 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 7.09 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Mineral City (ZIP Code 44656)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of Mineral City, Ohio (ZIP Code 44656), focusing on the crucial aspect of healthcare access. The score considers the ease and efficiency of transportation options to medical facilities, a critical determinant of overall well-being. This evaluation will delve into drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation alternatives, painting a comprehensive picture for potential residents or those considering moving to Mineral City.

The score is not a single number but a nuanced understanding, acknowledging the interplay of various factors. It acknowledges that access to healthcare is not merely about the existence of medical facilities but also about the ability to reach them promptly and reliably. This assessment aims to provide a realistic perspective, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses in the local transportation landscape.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads**

The primary mode of transportation in Mineral City and the surrounding areas is, undeniably, the personal vehicle. The ease of access to healthcare significantly depends on the road network and drive times. Residents primarily rely on State Route 212 (SR-212), a vital east-west artery connecting Mineral City to larger towns and healthcare hubs.

Traveling east on SR-212 leads to Dover, Ohio, approximately a 20-minute drive. Dover boasts significant healthcare resources, including Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital. This drive, while relatively short, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near the hospital.

Heading west on SR-212 leads to New Philadelphia, Ohio, another 20-minute journey. New Philadelphia offers a variety of medical services, including outpatient clinics and specialist practices. The traffic flow is generally smoother on this route compared to the eastern direction.

For those requiring specialized care or emergency services, the drive to Canton, Ohio, presents a more considerable challenge. This journey, primarily using SR-212 to Interstate 77 (I-77), can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Canton is home to Aultman Hospital and other major medical facilities, but the distance and potential congestion on I-77 can be a significant barrier.

Smaller towns like Carrollton, accessible via SR-39 and SR-9, offer limited healthcare options. These routes, while less congested than I-77, may require navigating winding roads, potentially extending travel times. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of vehicle maintenance and the financial burden of car ownership for residents.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Mineral City are extremely limited, impacting the overall health score. The availability of public transit is a critical factor in healthcare access, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Tuscarawas County, where Mineral City is located, does offer a public transit system, the Tuscarawas County Transit (TCT). However, TCT's routes and service frequency are limited, primarily serving the larger towns of Dover and New Philadelphia. There is no direct route serving Mineral City.

The TCT operates on a demand-response basis, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This can be a challenge for urgent medical needs or unexpected appointments. The lack of readily available public transit significantly disadvantages those with mobility issues, disabilities, or those who cannot afford a car.

Furthermore, the availability of accessible features, such as wheelchair lifts and ramps, is crucial for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance. Information regarding the ADA compliance of TCT vehicles and stops is essential for assessing the accessibility of healthcare for all residents. The lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the overall health score for residents of Mineral City.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for healthcare access. However, their availability in Mineral City is variable and often dependent on driver availability. The reliability of these services for urgent medical needs is questionable.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for transporting patients to medical appointments, provide a more specialized option. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transportation may operate in the area, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often require advance booking and may have limitations regarding the types of medical needs they can accommodate.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a significant barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. The financial burden of transportation costs can exacerbate existing health disparities. The availability and affordability of these alternative transportation options influence the overall health score.

**Overall Health Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The overall health score for accessing healthcare in Mineral City, Ohio (ZIP Code 44656) is moderate. While the proximity to healthcare facilities in Dover and New Philadelphia provides some advantage, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present significant challenges.

The drive times to Canton, while offering access to more comprehensive medical services, can be lengthy and subject to traffic delays. The absence of readily available public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further complicate healthcare access. The cost of transportation, whether personal vehicle expenses or the fees for ride-sharing or medical transport, adds another layer of complexity.

The overall health score for Mineral City is negatively impacted by the lack of robust public transportation. The limited options for those without a personal vehicle create a significant barrier to accessing timely and appropriate healthcare. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides a partial solution, but their cost and reliability may be limitations.

**Recommendations and Considerations for Moving to Mineral City**

For individuals considering moving to Mineral City, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the practicality of accessing healthcare services.

Prospective residents should investigate the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services in the area. Researching the accessibility of healthcare facilities, including ADA compliance, is essential.

The overall health score can be improved by initiatives that enhance public transportation options, such as expanding the TCT routes to include Mineral City or implementing a demand-response service specifically for medical appointments. Encouraging ride-sharing services to operate more consistently in the area would also be beneficial.

The development of community-based transportation programs, perhaps involving volunteer drivers or subsidized transportation services, could significantly improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Addressing the transportation challenges is critical to improving the overall health and well-being of Mineral City residents.

The overall health score is a dynamic assessment, influenced by the evolving transportation landscape and the availability of healthcare resources. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents have adequate access to the medical care they need.