44805, Ashland, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44805, Ashland, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.83 percent of residents in 44805 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.07 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth Mansfield Hospital with a distance of 13.54 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Ashland, Ohio (ZIP Code 44805)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Ashland, Ohio (ZIP code 44805) requires a comprehensive examination of their access to healthcare. A critical component of this assessment is evaluating the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities. This write-up delves into the various transportation options available, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, ultimately providing a nuanced understanding of healthcare accessibility for those living in and potentially **moving to Ashland**.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Ashland is the reliance on personal vehicles. The landscape is largely rural, making public transportation less prevalent. Residents typically navigate the area using their own cars to reach medical appointments, pharmacies, and other health-related services. The primary roadways for travel are US Route 250, which cuts through the heart of Ashland, and Interstate 71, providing connections to larger cities like Cleveland and Columbus. State Route 89 and State Route 96 also serve as important arteries, connecting Ashland to surrounding communities and healthcare providers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within Ashland are generally manageable. The Ashland Hospital, a central healthcare provider, is easily accessible from most residential areas. The drive time to the hospital, from most locations within the 44805 zip code, is typically under 15 minutes. This relatively short commute time is a significant advantage for residents, particularly during medical emergencies or for frequent appointments. However, for specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities, extending travel times.

The accessibility of healthcare is significantly impacted by the availability of public transportation. Unfortunately, Ashland's public transit system is limited. The Ashland County-City Transportation (ACCT) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are often geared towards specific needs, such as employment or senior services, and may not be ideal for general healthcare access. The ACCT does provide ADA-accessible buses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities have access to transportation. However, the limited frequency and coverage of the routes can pose challenges for those needing to reach medical appointments, especially during off-peak hours or on weekends.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ashland, offering an alternative transportation option. While these services can provide convenient door-to-door transportation, their availability may be limited, especially during peak hours or in less populated areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with fixed incomes or frequent medical appointments. The reliability of these services, especially during inclement weather, is another factor to consider when assessing their impact on **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services are crucial for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the Ashland area, offering services such as ambulance transport, non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), and wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are particularly important for individuals who cannot drive themselves or rely on public transportation. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies, potentially creating financial burdens for patients.

When **moving to Ashland**, prospective residents should carefully consider their healthcare needs and the transportation options available. Proximity to the Ashland Hospital is a significant advantage, but access to specialized care may require longer travel times. The limited public transportation options and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services need to be factored into the decision-making process.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Ashland is moderate. The presence of the Ashland Hospital and the relatively short drive times to most healthcare facilities contribute positively to the score. However, the limitations of public transportation, the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services detract from the overall score.

For individuals with limited mobility or those who do not have access to a personal vehicle, healthcare access can be more challenging. The availability of medical transport services is a crucial resource, but the cost and insurance coverage must be carefully considered. The limited availability of public transportation may necessitate reliance on family, friends, or community support networks to ensure access to healthcare.

The **healthcare access** landscape in Ashland is also influenced by the demographics of the population. The town has a significant senior population, who may have greater healthcare needs and mobility limitations. This demographic factor underscores the importance of ensuring accessible and affordable transportation options for all residents.

The economic factors also play a role. The affordability of transportation, including the cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport, directly impacts **healthcare access**. Lower-income residents may face greater challenges in accessing healthcare due to transportation costs.

The future of healthcare access in Ashland may be shaped by technological advancements. Telemedicine, for example, can reduce the need for in-person appointments and provide access to healthcare services remotely. The expansion of telehealth services could improve healthcare access for residents, particularly those in rural areas or with limited mobility.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Ashland, Ohio (ZIP code 44805) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the presence of the Ashland Hospital and the relatively short drive times to most healthcare facilities are positive aspects, the limitations of public transportation, the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport services must be considered. Prospective residents, especially those with specific healthcare needs or mobility limitations, should carefully evaluate the transportation options available and their potential impact on healthcare access. The availability of affordable and reliable **transportation** remains a crucial factor in ensuring that all residents of Ashland have equitable access to the healthcare services they need.