45053, Okeana, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45053, Okeana, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

35.99 percent of residents in 45053 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.69 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mccullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital with a distance of 11.75 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45053 (Okeana, Ohio)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Okeana, Ohio (ZIP Code 45053) necessitates a deep dive into **healthcare access**, with a primary focus on **transportation** options. This rural community, nestled in Butler County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to reaching essential medical services. The following analysis will examine the various modes of transport available, their associated travel times, and the overall impact on the well-being of those residing within this specific geographic area.

The fundamental factor influencing the health score in 45053 is the distance to healthcare facilities. Okeana itself is primarily residential, lacking major hospitals or specialized clinics. This means residents must travel to neighboring towns and cities to access comprehensive medical care. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are State Route 128 and US-127. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near intersections and in areas with commercial activity.

Driving times to healthcare facilities are a crucial metric. The closest hospital, Mercy Hospital Fairfield, is approximately a 20-30 minute drive via State Route 128. This time frame assumes normal traffic conditions. For specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, residents may need to travel further. The University of Cincinnati Medical Center, a major tertiary care facility, is roughly a 45-60 minute drive, primarily utilizing I-275 and I-75. These longer commutes can be particularly burdensome for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent appointments.

Public **transportation** options in 45053 are limited. The primary provider in the region is Butler County Regional Transit Authority (BCRTA). However, BCRTA's service area is not extensive in rural areas. Routes serving Okeana are infrequent, and the routes and schedules are subject to change. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is critical for individuals with disabilities. While BCRTA strives to provide accessible services, the limited frequency of routes and the distance to major medical centers can still pose significant challenges for those reliant on public **transportation**.

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offers another avenue for **transportation**. However, the reliability and cost-effectiveness of these services in rural areas like Okeana are variable. Ride availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share to a distant medical facility can also be prohibitive for some residents, potentially deterring them from seeking necessary medical attention.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are another option. Companies like MedTransport and American Medical Response (AMR) operate in the region. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized medical assistance during transit. However, these services typically come with a higher price tag than standard **transportation** options, and the availability of these services can be limited.

The overall health score for 45053 is significantly impacted by these **transportation** challenges. The distance to healthcare facilities, the limited public **transportation** options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services all contribute to potential barriers to **healthcare access**. These barriers can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes.

When **moving to Okeana**, prospective residents should carefully consider these **transportation** factors. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those who anticipate needing frequent medical care should assess their ability to navigate the **transportation** landscape. This includes evaluating the feasibility of driving, the reliability of public **transportation**, and the affordability of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges is further compounded by other factors. Socioeconomic status, age, and disability status can all influence an individual's ability to access **healthcare access**. Low-income individuals may struggle to afford the cost of **transportation**, while elderly residents or those with disabilities may face mobility limitations.

The healthcare infrastructure surrounding Okeana is a crucial consideration. While the community may lack immediate access to major hospitals, the presence of nearby urgent care centers and primary care physicians can help mitigate some of the **transportation** challenges. These facilities can provide immediate medical attention and facilitate referrals to specialists when necessary.

The role of technology in bridging the **transportation** gap is also worth considering. Telemedicine, for example, can provide remote consultations and monitoring, reducing the need for in-person visits. However, the availability of reliable internet access is essential for telemedicine to be effective.

The overall health score for 45053 can be improved by addressing the **transportation** challenges. This could involve expanding public **transportation** routes, subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income residents, and increasing the availability of medical **transportation** options. Investments in telemedicine infrastructure and promoting the use of telehealth services can also play a significant role.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Okeana, Ohio (ZIP Code 45053) is directly influenced by the challenges associated with **transportation** to healthcare facilities. The distance to hospitals and specialized clinics, the limited public **transportation** options, and the variable availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services all contribute to potential barriers to **healthcare access**. Prospective residents **moving to Okeana** should carefully consider these factors when assessing their healthcare needs. Addressing these **transportation** challenges through strategic investments in infrastructure, technology, and community partnerships is crucial to improving the overall health and well-being of the residents of this rural community.