45052, North Bend, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45052, North Bend, Ohio is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.17 percent of residents in 45052 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hospitalist Medicine Physicians Of Ohio, Professional Corporation with a distance of 8.02 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45052 (North Bend, OH)

Welcome to North Bend, Ohio, a community nestled along the Ohio River. Assessing the overall health score of a location involves considering various factors, with healthcare access being paramount. This analysis will delve into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP Code 45052, specifically examining commute times to healthcare facilities, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. Understanding these elements is crucial for anyone considering moving to North Bend and prioritizing their health and well-being.

The primary determinant of a positive health score is timely and reliable access to healthcare. For residents of 45052, the most significant factor influencing this access is the transportation infrastructure. The ease with which individuals can reach hospitals, clinics, and specialists directly impacts their ability to receive preventative care, manage chronic conditions, and respond to medical emergencies.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

North Bend's location offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to urban centers. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are the major roadways that connect the area to Cincinnati and its surrounding suburbs. Driving times are highly dependent on traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

The primary route to Cincinnati is via **U.S. Route 50**, a major east-west highway. This road provides direct access to several hospitals and medical facilities. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes to reach facilities like Mercy Hospital Anderson or Mercy Health – West Hospital, though this can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic. **Interstate 275**, a beltway around Cincinnati, offers another route, potentially leading to quicker access to hospitals on the north and east sides of the city, such as the University of Cincinnati Medical Center or Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. Travel time via I-275 is variable, often taking 30-45 minutes, and is also highly influenced by traffic congestion.

Within North Bend itself, local roads like **State Route 128** and **Cleves-Warsaw Pike** provide access to local medical offices and pharmacies. These routes are generally less congested, offering shorter travel times for routine appointments. However, they may require a transfer to a major highway for specialized care.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in the 45052 ZIP code are limited. The primary provider of public transit in the Greater Cincinnati area is the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating under the brand name Metro. Metro's service in this area is not extensive, and routes are infrequent.

Currently, there are no Metro bus routes that directly serve North Bend. Residents would need to travel to a nearby park-and-ride location to access a bus. This significantly increases the overall commute time and may be impractical for those with mobility limitations or urgent medical needs.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. Metro offers ADA-compliant buses with features like ramps and wheelchair securement systems. However, the limited service in North Bend reduces the practicality of relying on public transportation for healthcare access.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Cincinnati metropolitan area, including North Bend. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those without a personal vehicle or unable to drive. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can also increase costs.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services cater to patients who need transportation to and from medical appointments but cannot drive themselves or utilize public transit. Several medical transport companies operate in the Cincinnati area, including local ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation providers. These services typically offer options for wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients.

**Medical Transport Brand Examples:**

* **CareRide:** A non-emergency medical transportation provider offering wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport.
* **MedTrans:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation services for individuals needing assistance getting to and from medical appointments.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** In the event of an emergency, calling 911 will dispatch an ambulance to transport the patient to the nearest emergency room.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to North Bend:**

When considering moving to North Bend, prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation requirements. While the area offers a peaceful environment, access to healthcare is primarily dependent on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services.

For individuals with chronic health conditions or those requiring frequent medical appointments, the limited public transportation options and reliance on driving may pose challenges. The drive times to hospitals and specialized care facilities should be factored into the decision-making process.

Before moving, potential residents should research the location of healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, and hospitals, and assess the feasibility of reaching these facilities using available transportation options. This includes considering the distance, traffic conditions, and the availability of ride-sharing services.

**Overall Health Score Considerations:**

The overall health score for 45052 is influenced by the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services suggest a moderate score. The drive times to major hospitals and medical facilities, while manageable, can be affected by traffic congestion.

The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers adds a layer of convenience, but these options may be costly. For individuals with specific healthcare needs or limited mobility, the transportation challenges may necessitate careful planning and consideration.

In conclusion, while North Bend offers a desirable lifestyle, prospective residents must thoroughly assess their healthcare needs and the transportation options available to ensure they can access the care they require. The ability to reach medical facilities efficiently and reliably is a critical component of a high overall health score.