45146, Martinsville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45146, Martinsville, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

49.76 percent of residents in 45146 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.57 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland District Hospital with a distance of 11.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45146 (Martinsville, Ohio)

Understanding healthcare access is paramount, especially when considering a move to a new area. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for ZIP Code 45146, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities. It delves into drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, offering a comprehensive view for prospective residents. This information is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Martinsville, Ohio, and evaluating their ability to maintain and improve their health.

The "Overall Health Score" is not a single numerical value but a qualitative assessment based on the accessibility and efficiency of transportation options to healthcare providers. It considers factors like distance, travel time, mode of transport, and the availability of services catering to individuals with disabilities. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the ease with which residents of 45146 can access essential medical care.

**Driving Times and Road Networks:**

The primary mode of transportation in Martinsville is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The road network, while relatively straightforward, influences healthcare access significantly. The most direct route to larger healthcare facilities typically involves navigating local roads and then connecting to major highways.

For residents of 45146, accessing healthcare often means traveling to Wilmington or Hillsboro. The drive to Wilmington, approximately 15 miles, usually takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The journey primarily involves using State Route 28, a key artery connecting Martinsville to Wilmington. The road is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be heavier during peak hours, especially near Wilmington.

Traveling to Hillsboro, roughly 20 miles, requires using State Route 753 and, potentially, US Route 50. The drive time is similar to Wilmington, around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within Hillsboro. These routes are generally less congested than those closer to larger metropolitan areas.

The condition of the roads and potential for delays due to accidents or construction should be considered when assessing healthcare access. While the driving distances are not excessive, reliable transportation is crucial for timely medical attention.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Martinsville and the surrounding areas are limited. This impacts the "Overall Health Score" negatively, particularly for individuals who do not drive or cannot drive. The lack of robust public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for certain populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The primary public transit provider in the region is likely to be the Clinton CountyClinton County Transit System (CCTS). CCTS operates on a demand-response basis, meaning that riders must schedule their trips in advance. This system provides transportation within Clinton County, including to Wilmington, but the availability and frequency of service may be limited, particularly to Martinsville.

The CCTS website or phone line is the best source of information about scheduling a ride. Riders need to call in advance, preferably 24 hours, to schedule a trip. The service may be available for medical appointments, but it is essential to confirm availability and potential wait times. The CCTS provides ADA-accessible vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area but may have limited availability, especially in Martinsville itself. The reliability of these services can vary, and wait times might be longer compared to larger cities. Ride-sharing can be a viable option for those who need occasional transportation to healthcare appointments, but it may not be a consistent or affordable solution for regular medical needs.

Medical transport services are available for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services cater to patients who need transportation to and from medical appointments, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel.

Medical transport providers include, but are not limited to, private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation companies. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, but they provide a crucial service for individuals with mobility limitations or other medical needs.

**Healthcare Access and the "Overall Health Score":**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in 45146 reflects a mixed picture. While the driving distances to healthcare facilities in Wilmington and Hillsboro are manageable, the lack of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services pose challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of individual mobility and access to a reliable vehicle. For those who cannot drive, the limited public transit and the cost of medical transport services create significant barriers to healthcare access.

The "Overall Health Score" is diminished by the limitations in public transit and the potential for longer wait times or higher costs associated with alternative transportation options. This is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating moving to Martinsville, Ohio, and highlights the need to carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

To improve the "Overall Health Score" for 45146, several initiatives could be considered. Expanding public transit options, including fixed-route services or increased demand-response services, would significantly enhance healthcare access for non-drivers.

Collaboration between healthcare providers and transportation services could streamline appointment scheduling and transportation logistics. This would involve coordinating appointment times with available transportation options, ensuring patients can arrive at their appointments on time.

Promoting the availability and awareness of ride-sharing and medical transport services would also be beneficial. This could involve providing information about these services at local healthcare facilities and community centers.

Ultimately, a multi-faceted approach that addresses the transportation challenges faced by residents of 45146 is crucial for ensuring equitable healthcare access. This includes investing in public transit, supporting ride-sharing and medical transport, and fostering collaboration between healthcare providers and transportation services.