44826, Collins, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44826, Collins, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.49 percent of residents in 44826 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.94 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fisher-Titus Hospital with a distance of 6.15 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Collins, Ohio (ZIP Code 44826)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In the quaint village of Collins, Ohio, nestled within the 44826 ZIP code, this crucial aspect of life is primarily shaped by transportation infrastructure and the availability of medical services. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the challenges and opportunities related to commuting to healthcare, offering insights for residents and those considering moving to Collins.

Collins, a small, rural community, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to healthcare access. The village itself lacks a hospital or major medical center, meaning residents rely on surrounding towns and cities for specialized care. This reliance immediately introduces the factor of transportation, making it a critical determinant of health outcomes. The accessibility of healthcare is not just about the presence of doctors and hospitals; it's about the ease with which residents can reach them.

The primary mode of transportation in Collins is the personal vehicle. This is unsurprising given the rural setting and the limited availability of public transit. Residents typically rely on their cars to travel to appointments, pick up prescriptions, and seek emergency medical attention. The efficiency and safety of this mode are directly tied to the condition of the roads and the distance to healthcare facilities.

The major arteries serving Collins are **US Route 20**, a vital east-west thoroughfare, and **State Route 18**, which runs north-south. These highways are generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion can occur, especially during peak hours or when accidents happen. Local roads like **Townline Road**, **Zenith Road**, and **Fitchville River Road** provide crucial connections within the village and to neighboring communities. The condition of these secondary roads varies, and some may be subject to seasonal closures due to weather conditions.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a significant consideration. The closest hospital, Fisher-Titus Medical Center in Norwalk, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive via US Route 20. For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger medical centers in Cleveland, which can take upwards of an hour, depending on traffic. The drive to Cleveland involves navigating Interstate 90, a major highway prone to congestion.

Public transportation options in Collins are extremely limited. The lack of a robust public transit system poses a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources. The absence of regular bus routes or other forms of public transportation restricts healthcare access for a vulnerable segment of the population.

While there isn’t a dedicated public transit system, it’s worth noting that some local organizations may offer transportation assistance for medical appointments. These services are often targeted towards seniors or individuals with disabilities and may require advance booking. The specifics of these programs, including eligibility requirements and service areas, should be researched by individuals needing this type of support.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Collins is another factor to consider. While these services are present in the area, their availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in more remote locations. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for longer trips to hospitals or specialists.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in healthcare access, especially for those with mobility limitations or medical conditions. The response time of emergency medical services is a critical determinant of health outcomes in critical situations. The quality and efficiency of these services are essential for ensuring timely access to care.

The presence of NEMT providers, like **CareRide** and **LogistiCare**, offering transportation to medical appointments, is a positive aspect of healthcare access in the area. However, the availability of these services and the insurance coverage for their use vary. Residents should investigate their insurance plans and the specific requirements for accessing NEMT services.

For those considering moving to Collins, the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access are a significant factor to consider. While the village offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options necessitate careful planning for medical needs. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those who anticipate needing frequent medical care should factor in the drive times, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost of transportation when evaluating their move.

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Collins, Ohio, is therefore influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While the presence of a well-maintained road network and the proximity to a major hospital are positive aspects, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some relief, but their cost and availability can be limiting.

The score is further impacted by the demographics of the community. Collins has a significant population of older adults, a demographic that often requires more frequent medical care and may face mobility limitations. This demographic factor underscores the importance of addressing the transportation challenges and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to healthcare.

In conclusion, the "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in Collins, Ohio, is moderate. While the village offers a relatively convenient location for accessing healthcare facilities, the lack of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers for some residents. Addressing these challenges through initiatives that promote ride-sharing, expand medical transport services, and support the development of community-based transportation programs would significantly improve the "Overall Health Score" and enhance the well-being of the community. The health of the community is directly linked to the ease with which its residents can access the care they need.