44866, Polk, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44866, Polk, Ohio is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.75 percent of residents in 44866 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 14.99 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44866

The well-being of residents in Polk, Ohio, ZIP Code 44866, hinges significantly on their ability to access healthcare. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, examining the transportation landscape that connects residents to essential medical services. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this rural community. This information is particularly valuable for those considering moving to Polk, offering insights into the practicalities of maintaining good health.

The foundation of healthcare access in 44866 rests on the efficiency of **transportation**. The primary mode of travel is by personal vehicle. Residents rely heavily on the network of highways and roads to reach medical facilities. The most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating **US Route 250** and **State Route 3**. These highways offer relatively quick access to Ashland, where Ashland Health Center and University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center are located. Drive times to these facilities typically range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within 44866.

Further afield, access to specialized care might necessitate travel to Mansfield, approximately 30 to 45 minutes away, primarily via **State Route 302** and then connecting to **US Route 30**. This adds to the overall commute time, which is a crucial factor in the overall health score. The availability of reliable **transportation** is thus a critical determinant of the quality of life in Polk.

Public **transit** options are limited in 44866, which impacts the health score. The Ashland Area Transit (AAT) provides some services within Ashland County, but coverage in Polk is infrequent. The AAT's routes are primarily designed to serve the city of Ashland. Information regarding specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility is essential for residents who cannot drive. While the AAT aims to provide transportation to medical appointments, the rural nature of the area presents logistical challenges. The lack of robust public **transit** options significantly impacts the health score for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not as consistent as in more urban centers. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. The reliance on ride-sharing, therefore, introduces an element of uncertainty into **healthcare access**. While these services offer a potential solution, their reliability and cost must be carefully considered. This variable adds complexity to the overall health score.

Medical **transport** services play a crucial role in supporting residents with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, offering specialized transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary, impacting the overall health score. Researching and understanding these options is vital for individuals requiring assistance.

The overall health score for 44866 is moderate, reflecting the challenges and opportunities associated with **healthcare access**. The reliance on personal vehicles creates a dependency on individual mobility. The limited public **transit** options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. Medical **transport** services offer a crucial lifeline for some residents, but their accessibility and cost need to be considered.

For individuals considering **moving to Polk**, the **transportation** landscape is a critical factor. Assessing the distance to medical facilities, the reliability of personal vehicles, and the availability of alternative **transportation** options is essential. The health score is influenced by the ease with which residents can reach their doctors, specialists, and hospitals.

The overall health score is also impacted by the quality of healthcare providers in the surrounding areas. The proximity of Ashland Health Center and University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center is a positive factor. However, the need for specialized care may require travel to larger medical centers in Mansfield or even further afield, increasing commute times and impacting the health score.

The cost of **transportation** is another factor influencing the health score. Fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and the potential expense of ride-sharing or medical **transport** services can create financial burdens. These costs can impact residents' ability to seek timely medical care, thereby lowering the overall health score.

The presence of community resources, such as volunteer driver programs or assistance with **transportation** costs, can positively influence the health score. These programs can help bridge the gap in **healthcare access** for residents with limited mobility or financial resources.

In conclusion, the overall health score for 44866 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors related to **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While the proximity of medical facilities in Ashland is a positive aspect, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transit** options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The cost of **transportation** and the availability of medical **transport** services also impact the health score. Prospective residents considering **moving to Polk** should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and the accessibility of healthcare services to make informed decisions about their well-being.