45014, Fairfield, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45014, Fairfield, Ohio is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.47 percent of residents in 45014 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Fairfield Hospital with a distance of 2.06 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Fairfield, OH (ZIP Code 45014)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Fairfield, Ohio (ZIP code 45014) requires a deep dive into the multifaceted aspects of healthcare access. A critical component of this assessment is understanding the ease and efficiency with which individuals can *transport* themselves to and from healthcare facilities. This analysis considers various modes of *transportation*, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical *transport* options. The goal is to provide a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities facing Fairfield residents in their pursuit of optimal health.

Fairfield, a vibrant and growing community, is primarily served by personal vehicles for *transportation*. The city’s layout and surrounding infrastructure heavily influence the ability of residents to reach vital healthcare services. Major thoroughfares like Interstate 275 (I-275), a crucial loop around Cincinnati, and Interstate 75 (I-75), a north-south artery, play a significant role in connecting Fairfield to regional healthcare hubs. Additionally, the major roads like Ohio State Route 4 (OH-4) and Ohio State Route 129 (OH-129) provide direct access to local medical facilities and specialists.

Drive times to healthcare providers within and outside Fairfield are essential indicators of *healthcare access*. Residents can quickly reach local urgent care facilities and primary care physicians within a 10-15 minute drive, using roads like Pleasant Avenue, Winton Road, and Symmes Road. However, accessing specialized care, such as hospitals with advanced medical services, may require longer travel times.

The closest major hospital, Mercy Hospital Fairfield, located at 3000 Mack Rd, is a key healthcare provider for the community. Reaching Mercy Hospital Fairfield from various points within the 45014 ZIP code typically takes between 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. For more specialized care, residents often travel to hospitals in Cincinnati, such as the University of Cincinnati Medical Center or The Christ Hospital, which are accessible via I-275 and I-75. These trips can take between 30-45 minutes, potentially increasing during peak traffic hours. This is a crucial factor to consider for residents *moving to Fairfield*, especially those with chronic health conditions or requiring frequent medical attention.

Public transit options in Fairfield, while available, offer limited *healthcare access* compared to the reliance on personal vehicles. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating under the brand Metro, provides bus services within the Cincinnati metropolitan area. Several Metro routes serve Fairfield, including routes 1, 2, and 4. These routes connect Fairfield to downtown Cincinnati and other surrounding areas, including some healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during off-peak hours and weekends, can be a significant barrier to *healthcare access*.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses, equipped with features like ramps and lifts, is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Metro strives to provide accessible services, but the overall efficiency and convenience of public transit may not fully meet the needs of all residents, particularly those with mobility limitations. The reliance on transfers and longer travel times can make public transit a less desirable option for those seeking timely medical care.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative *transportation* option, providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who do not own a car or cannot drive. The availability of ride-sharing services in Fairfield is generally good, with readily available drivers. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, especially those with limited financial resources.

Medical *transport* services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs, including non-emergency medical *transport* (NEMT). These services typically offer door-to-door *transportation* for appointments, including those for dialysis, physical therapy, and other medical treatments. Several medical *transport* providers operate in the Fairfield area, including local ambulance companies and national brands. These services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

The cost of medical *transport* can vary significantly depending on the service provider, the distance traveled, and the level of care required. While medical *transport* services provide a vital lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs, the cost can be a significant burden, particularly for those without adequate insurance coverage.

In evaluating the overall health score for *healthcare access* in Fairfield, it's crucial to consider the combined impact of these *transportation* options. While the availability of personal vehicles provides the most convenient and flexible *transportation* option, the reliance on car ownership can create challenges for those without access to a vehicle. The limited public transit options, while offering an alternative, may not be a viable solution for all residents due to frequency, travel times, and accessibility concerns.

Ride-sharing services and medical *transport* providers offer valuable support, but their cost and availability can create barriers for some. The overall health score for *healthcare access* in Fairfield is therefore a complex calculation, balancing the strengths and weaknesses of each *transportation* mode.

For individuals *moving to Fairfield*, a thorough understanding of these *transportation* options is essential. Assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical *transport* services should be a priority. This information will enable prospective residents to make informed decisions about their *healthcare access* needs and ensure they can receive the care they require.

In conclusion, the overall health score for *healthcare access* in Fairfield, OH (45014) is influenced by the dominance of personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical *transport* services. While the city offers a reasonable level of *healthcare access*, improvements in public transit, affordability of ride-sharing, and expansion of medical *transport* options could significantly enhance the overall health score for residents. Careful consideration of these factors is crucial for individuals *moving to Fairfield* and for the ongoing efforts to improve the health and well-being of the community.