44838, Hayesville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44838, Hayesville, Ohio is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.54 percent of residents in 44838 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth Mansfield Hospital with a distance of 13.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Hayesville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44838)

This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for healthcare access within the Hayesville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44838) area, focusing on transportation options. Understanding the ease of reaching medical facilities is crucial for residents' well-being. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport availability, offering a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Hayesville or evaluating current healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a numerical value but a narrative assessment reflecting the challenges and opportunities in accessing healthcare. It considers the varying needs of individuals, including those with mobility limitations or without personal vehicles. The score aims to highlight the realities of healthcare accessibility within this specific geographic area.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Hayesville is the personal vehicle. The area's road network, while generally well-maintained, dictates travel times to medical facilities. Residents primarily rely on **State Route 302** and **State Route 603** for local travel. These roads connect Hayesville to nearby towns and cities where healthcare providers are located.

For more extensive healthcare needs, residents often travel to Mansfield, Ohio, the county seat. This trip typically involves using **State Route 302** to connect with **Interstate 71 (I-71)**, a major north-south highway. The drive to Mansfield, approximately 15 miles, can take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination.

Access to hospitals and specialized care in larger cities like Columbus, Ohio, approximately 70 miles away, requires a longer commute. This journey primarily utilizes **I-71**, and travel times can range from 1.5 to 2 hours, factoring in potential traffic congestion. The efficiency of the road network is vital, but the distance to major healthcare centers presents a significant consideration for residents.

**Public Transit Limitations**

Public transportation options in Hayesville and the surrounding area are limited. Ashland County-West Holmes Career Center provides transportation services to its students, but there is no established public transit system directly serving Hayesville. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, creating a barrier to healthcare access.

The absence of a robust public transit system necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport, which can be more expensive and less readily available. The absence of public transit, especially for those with mobility limitations, contributes to a lower overall health score.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Hayesville area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability presents a challenge for those who depend on these services for medical appointments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent visits.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) providers, are available in the area. These services are designed to transport individuals with medical needs to and from appointments. However, these services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicle use, and they may require advance booking, which can be a logistical hurdle.

Specific medical transport brands operating in the area include MedStar Ambulance and other private providers. The availability and cost of these services vary, underscoring the need for residents to plan and budget for transportation expenses.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge**

The "Overall Health Score" for Hayesville, Ohio, reflects a mixed picture. While the road network provides access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative options, but their cost and reliability must be considered.

The distance to major healthcare centers in Mansfield and Columbus necessitates longer travel times, which can be a burden for those with chronic conditions or requiring frequent medical attention. The lack of readily available public transit exacerbates these challenges, particularly for individuals who cannot drive.

**Accessibility Considerations**

Accessibility is a critical factor in healthcare access. Individuals with disabilities require transportation options that accommodate their needs. The absence of a robust public transit system with ADA-compliant features presents a significant barrier. Ride-sharing services may not always have accessible vehicles readily available.

Medical transport services often provide accessible transportation options, but these services are typically more expensive. The availability of accessible transportation is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, and the current options in Hayesville are limited.

**Impact on Residents and Moving to Hayesville**

The transportation challenges in Hayesville directly impact residents' ability to access healthcare. This can lead to delayed appointments, missed treatments, and increased healthcare costs. For those considering moving to Hayesville, understanding these transportation limitations is essential.

Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and the available transportation options. If frequent medical appointments are required, the lack of readily available public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical transport services should be considered.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Hayesville, Ohio, is moderate. The area benefits from a well-maintained road network, but the lack of public transit and the limitations of ride-sharing services create significant challenges. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach.

Investing in public transit options, including routes connecting Hayesville to Mansfield and other healthcare hubs, could significantly improve healthcare access. Promoting ride-sharing services and ensuring the availability of accessible vehicles would also be beneficial.

Improving healthcare access is a crucial component of community well-being. By addressing the transportation challenges, Hayesville can create a healthier environment for its residents and make the area more attractive for those considering moving there. The current situation highlights the need for continued efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand healthcare access for all residents.