45123, Greenfield, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45123, Greenfield, Ohio is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.04 percent of residents in 45123 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Greenfield Area Medical Center with a distance of 0.67 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Greenfield, OH (ZIP Code 45123)

Greenfield, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Highland County, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and the realities of modern life. One of the most critical aspects of well-being for residents, and a significant factor for anyone **moving to Greenfield**, is **healthcare access**. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare facilities from the 45123 ZIP code, considering various **transportation** options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services.

The score will reflect the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services, influencing their overall health and quality of life. We'll delve into the specifics, offering a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in navigating the healthcare landscape of Greenfield.

**Driving to Healthcare: The Primary Route**

For many Greenfield residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare. The most direct route to medical facilities in nearby cities like Hillsboro and Washington Court House involves navigating a network of highways and county roads. From the center of Greenfield, a drive to Highland District Hospital in Hillsboro typically takes around 20-25 minutes, covering approximately 15 miles. The journey primarily utilizes US Route 50, a major east-west thoroughfare, and then merges onto State Route 73.

Traffic conditions on US Route 50 are generally manageable, though rush hour can cause minor delays. The roads are well-maintained, offering a relatively smooth ride. However, in inclement weather, such as heavy rain or snow, the drive time can increase, and road conditions may become hazardous. This is a crucial consideration, especially for those with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations.

The drive to Adena Greenfield Medical Center, located within Greenfield itself, is significantly shorter, typically under 5 minutes. This local access point offers convenience for many residents, providing primary care and other essential services. However, for specialized care, residents often need to travel further afield.

**Washington Court House and Beyond: Expanding the Horizon**

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Washington Court House, approximately 25 miles north of Greenfield. This journey usually takes around 35-45 minutes, primarily utilizing US Route 62. This route is generally less congested than US Route 50, but it's still subject to traffic fluctuations.

Further afield, the city of Chillicothe, home to Adena Regional Medical Center, is approximately 40 miles away, translating to a drive time of about an hour. This longer journey necessitates careful planning, particularly for appointments scheduled during peak traffic times.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Greenfield are limited. Highland County offers a dial-a-ride service, but it's not a regularly scheduled bus route. This service requires advance booking and may not always be available at the desired time, making it less convenient for urgent medical needs. The service operates on a demand-response basis, with limited capacity and operating hours.

While this service can be a lifeline for those without personal vehicles, it presents challenges. The need for advance booking requires careful planning, and the potential for delays necessitates flexibility. The service also lacks the frequency and coverage of public transit systems in more urban areas. It is important to note whether the vehicles used by the service have ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features to accommodate individuals with mobility impairments.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Greenfield, though their availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes them a less reliable option for urgent medical needs. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes.

Medical transport services, such as MedTransport and other local providers, offer a more specialized solution for those with mobility limitations or other medical needs. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel. However, they can be costly, and advance booking is usually required.

**The Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

Considering all factors, the "Overall Health Score" for **healthcare access** in Greenfield, OH (45123) is moderate. While residents have access to local healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles for specialized care and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services pose challenges.

The drive times to nearby hospitals are reasonable, but the potential for delays due to traffic and weather conditions necessitates careful planning. The limited availability and reliability of alternative **transportation** options, particularly for those without personal vehicles, can create barriers to accessing timely medical care.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

Several factors contribute to the overall score. The proximity of Adena Greenfield Medical Center provides a convenient access point for primary care. However, the need to travel to Hillsboro, Washington Court House, or Chillicothe for specialized care adds to the commute time and potential stress.

The lack of a robust public transit system and the variable availability of ride-sharing services limit the options for those without personal vehicles. The cost and availability of medical transport services can also be a barrier for some residents.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several steps could be taken. Enhancing the frequency and coverage of public transit services would significantly benefit residents without personal vehicles. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road widening and traffic signal optimization, could reduce drive times and improve safety. Promoting telehealth services could also expand **healthcare access** for residents, particularly those in rural areas.

**The Importance of Context**

It's crucial to consider the context of Greenfield's rural setting. While the **transportation** options may be limited compared to urban areas, the community's strong sense of neighborliness and the availability of volunteer services can help mitigate some of the challenges. For anyone **moving to Greenfield**, understanding these nuances is essential for making informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

In conclusion, while Greenfield offers a welcoming environment, the challenges associated with **healthcare access** highlight the need for ongoing efforts to improve **transportation** options and ensure that all residents can readily access the medical care they need. The "Overall Health Score" serves as a starting point for evaluating and addressing these critical issues.