44680, Strasburg, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44680, Strasburg, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.32 percent of residents in 44680 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.85 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Hospital with a distance of 15.13 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Strasburg, OH (ZIP Code 44680)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its healthcare access. This assessment provides an “Overall Health Score” for residents of Strasburg, Ohio (ZIP Code 44680), focusing on the crucial element of transportation. Navigating the roads and transit options to reach medical facilities directly impacts the well-being of individuals and families, influencing everything from preventative care to emergency response. Considering a move to Strasburg? Understanding this score is essential.

The foundation of this assessment lies in evaluating the ease and efficiency with which residents can access essential medical services. We examine the available transportation modalities, considering factors such as travel time, cost, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and the overall reliability of each option. This analysis will illuminate the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare transportation infrastructure in Strasburg, providing a comprehensive view of its impact on the community's health.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many Strasburg residents, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The network of highways and roads forms the asphalt arteries connecting homes to medical facilities. Driving times are heavily influenced by traffic patterns, particularly during peak hours, and the distance to various healthcare providers.

Traveling to Dover, Ohio, a regional hub for healthcare, typically involves navigating **State Route 212** and then connecting to **U.S. Route 250**. The drive, usually around 15-20 minutes, offers a relatively direct route to facilities like Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital. However, during inclement weather, these roads can become treacherous, increasing travel times and potentially hindering access to urgent care.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Canton, Ohio. This journey typically involves utilizing **U.S. Route 250** and then connecting to **Interstate 77**. The commute, which can take 30-45 minutes depending on traffic, provides access to larger hospitals and specialist practices. However, the increased distance and potential for congestion can present a significant barrier, particularly for those with limited mobility or chronic health conditions.

Smaller, local clinics and doctor's offices are generally accessible within Strasburg or nearby towns like New Philadelphia. These shorter drives, often utilizing local roads such as **Main Street** and **Wooster Avenue**, offer convenience for routine appointments. However, even these short trips can be challenging for individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Strasburg are limited, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare access for those who cannot or do not drive. The Tuscarawas County Transportation Department (TCTD) provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, while available, requires careful planning and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs.

The TCTD offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access transportation. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking can restrict flexibility and spontaneity. While the TCTD plays a vital role in connecting residents to healthcare, its scope and frequency are insufficient to meet the needs of the entire community.

The absence of a robust public transportation system leaves many residents reliant on personal vehicles or informal arrangements. This can be particularly problematic for seniors, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities, who may face significant challenges in accessing medical care. The lack of reliable public transit contributes to a lower Overall Health Score for healthcare access.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the availability of these services in Strasburg is limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can make them cost-prohibitive.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and specialized providers, cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services provide transportation to and from medical appointments, often with trained medical personnel on board. While essential for certain populations, these services can be expensive and may not be readily available for all types of medical appointments.

The reliance on ride-share and medical transport highlights the gaps in the transportation infrastructure for healthcare access in Strasburg. While these services can provide valuable support, they are not a comprehensive solution and may not be accessible to all residents.

**Overall Health Score: A Mixed Prognosis**

The Overall Health Score for healthcare access in Strasburg, Ohio (ZIP Code 44680), is moderate. While residents have access to a network of roads connecting them to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential cost and availability issues of ride-share and medical transport services create barriers to care for many.

The drive times to nearby healthcare hubs like Dover and Canton are generally manageable, but the lack of reliable public transit and the potential for traffic congestion can impact access. The limited availability of ride-share services and the cost of medical transport further exacerbate these challenges.

**Recommendations for Improvement:**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several key areas require attention. Investing in and expanding public transportation options, including fixed-route bus services, could significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents. Partnering with ride-share companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also help.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of existing transportation resources, such as the TCTD and medical transport services, is crucial. Enhancing infrastructure, such as improving road conditions and adding sidewalks and bike lanes, would make it easier for residents to reach healthcare facilities safely.

Finally, fostering collaboration between healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations is essential to develop innovative solutions that address the unique transportation needs of the Strasburg community. Addressing these challenges will not only improve the Overall Health Score but also enhance the quality of life for all residents, making Strasburg a healthier and more accessible place to live. Considering a move to Strasburg? Carefully weigh these transportation factors.