45051, Mount Saint Joseph, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45051, Mount Saint Joseph, Ohio is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.93 percent of residents in 45051 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Fairfield Hospital with a distance of 14.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45051

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape of ZIP Code 45051, a region encompassing Mount Saint Joseph and surrounding areas, to determine an "Overall Health Score" based on healthcare access. We will explore the various transportation options available, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, to paint a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking medical care. This assessment is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Mount Saint Joseph, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical attention.

The geographic layout of 45051 significantly influences healthcare access. The area is primarily suburban, characterized by residential neighborhoods interspersed with commercial zones. Major thoroughfares like I-74, the primary east-west artery, and US-50, a key route connecting to Cincinnati, are crucial for vehicular travel. The presence of these highways, while facilitating longer-distance commutes, can also contribute to traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, potentially delaying access to medical appointments. The proximity to Cincinnati, a major metropolitan center, offers both advantages and disadvantages in terms of healthcare access. While a wider array of specialized medical services is available, the commute to these facilities can be time-consuming.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical component of the Overall Health Score. Several hospitals and clinics serve the 45051 area. Mercy Health – West Hospital, located a reasonable drive away, can be reached via I-74, typically taking around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Another option is TriHealth – Good Samaritan Hospital, which requires a longer drive, approximately 30-45 minutes via US-50 and I-75. Shorter drives are available to urgent care facilities and primary care physician offices within the immediate vicinity. The variability in drive times highlights the importance of considering location when choosing a healthcare provider, especially for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation plays a role in healthcare access, though its effectiveness is limited in this suburban setting. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating under the brand name Metro, provides bus service to parts of 45051. However, the routes are not extensive, and service frequency may be less frequent than in more densely populated areas. Route 36, for instance, offers a connection to downtown Cincinnati, where numerous hospitals and specialty clinics are located. While the buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating, the travel time to downtown can be substantial, often exceeding an hour. This makes public transit less practical for urgent medical needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who cannot drive. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need to navigate public transit schedules. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments. Furthermore, the availability of ride-sharing services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower demand, potentially causing delays in accessing healthcare. The reliability of these services is a critical factor in determining their contribution to the Overall Health Score.

Medical transportation services cater specifically to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. These services, offered by companies like CareRide and several local providers, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) for appointments and other healthcare-related needs. They often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist passengers. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and booking in advance is often required. The cost of medical transportation can also be a significant factor, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

The Overall Health Score considers the accessibility of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of transportation options, and the affordability of these options. The presence of major highways like I-74 and US-50 provides relatively quick access to some hospitals and clinics, but traffic congestion can be a significant factor. Public transit, while available, is limited in its coverage and frequency, making it less suitable for urgent medical needs. Ride-sharing services offer convenience but can be expensive and subject to availability. Medical transportation services provide specialized assistance but are often limited in availability and can be costly.

The decision to move to Mount Saint Joseph in ZIP Code 45051 should include a careful consideration of these transportation factors. Individuals with chronic health conditions, mobility limitations, or limited financial resources may face challenges in accessing healthcare. While the area offers a mix of transportation options, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for lengthy commutes to specialized medical facilities should be carefully evaluated. Prospective residents should research the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for healthcare access in 45051 is moderate. While the area benefits from proximity to major highways and a range of healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing, and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges. Individuals considering moving to Mount Saint Joseph should prioritize assessing their healthcare needs and carefully evaluating the transportation options available to ensure they can access the care they require. Further investment in public transit, expansion of medical transportation services, and initiatives to improve traffic flow could significantly enhance the Overall Health Score for this community, promoting better healthcare access for all residents.