45168, Russellville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45168, Russellville, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.61 percent of residents in 45168 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland District Hospital with a distance of 26.63 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Russellville (ZIP Code 45168)

Russellville, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Brown County, presents a unique landscape for assessing healthcare access. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 45168, considering the challenges and opportunities presented by transportation options to reach medical facilities. The score will be determined by evaluating drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. This information is particularly relevant for individuals considering **moving to Russellville**, as it directly impacts their healthcare **access**.

The foundation of healthcare access in Russellville begins with the automobile. Driving remains the primary mode of **transportation** for most residents. The closest major healthcare providers are in Georgetown, approximately a 20-minute drive via State Route 125. This route is generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact travel times. Further afield, Cincinnati, with its vast array of specialized medical facilities, is roughly a 1-hour and 15-minute drive, primarily utilizing US-68 North and connecting to major interstates.

The drive to Mount Orab, about 30 minutes away, offers another option, mainly via State Route 32. This route is often less congested than the Cincinnati corridor, offering a viable alternative for routine appointments and urgent care needs. However, traffic, especially during peak hours, can still extend travel times. For those seeking more specialized care, the drive to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, a leading regional hospital, can extend to 1 hour and 30 minutes or more, depending on traffic and the specific route taken.

Public transit options in Russellville are limited. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. Brown County General Health District offers some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, these services are often in high demand and may require advance booking, which can be problematic for urgent medical needs. The absence of frequent, reliable public **transportation** is a substantial factor contributing to the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Russellville. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments. While these services can provide a valuable backup option, they are not a dependable primary mode of **transportation** for healthcare needs. The limited presence of ride-sharing services impacts the overall health score.

Medical transport services are available for individuals requiring specialized assistance. These services are typically utilized for non-emergency medical transport (NEMT), such as transportation to dialysis appointments or doctor visits. Several companies, including local ambulance services, offer these services. However, the cost can be substantial, and availability may be limited, particularly during peak demand. These services are crucial for those with mobility limitations, but their accessibility and affordability are essential considerations.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Russellville, ZIP Code 45168, is moderate. The primary challenge is the reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation**. While drive times to nearby healthcare providers are reasonable, the lack of robust public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers for some residents. The cost and potential limitations of medical transport services further contribute to the challenges.

For individuals **moving to Russellville**, a careful consideration of these factors is crucial. Those without personal vehicles, or with mobility limitations, will face greater challenges in accessing healthcare. The need for reliable **transportation** should be a key factor in their decision-making process. The availability of family, friends, or community support for **transportation** can significantly improve the overall health score for individuals in this situation.

The presence of local healthcare providers, such as family physicians and urgent care clinics, is a positive factor. These facilities provide convenient access to basic medical services, reducing the need for frequent long-distance travel. However, the availability of specialized care, such as cardiology or oncology, requires travel to larger medical centers, adding to the **transportation** burden.

The overall health score is also impacted by the demographics of Russellville. The aging population and the presence of individuals with disabilities increase the demand for specialized **transportation** services. The socioeconomic status of the residents also plays a role, as lower-income individuals may struggle to afford the costs associated with personal vehicle ownership, ride-sharing, or medical transport.

The future health score could be improved by investing in public **transportation** options. Expanding the availability and frequency of public transit, particularly to connect Russellville with healthcare facilities in surrounding communities, would significantly enhance **healthcare access** for all residents. Promoting ride-sharing programs and subsidizing the cost of medical transport for low-income individuals would also improve the overall health score.

Furthermore, community initiatives that provide volunteer driver programs or carpooling services could alleviate some of the **transportation** challenges. Increased awareness of available resources and services, such as the Brown County General Health District's transportation program, is also essential.

In conclusion, while Russellville offers reasonable access to basic healthcare services, the limited **transportation** options create significant challenges for many residents. The overall health score is moderate, reflecting the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited availability of public transit and ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport. Individuals considering **moving to Russellville** should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and the availability of support networks to ensure they can adequately access the healthcare services they require. Addressing the **transportation** barriers through strategic investments and community initiatives is crucial to improving the overall health score and ensuring equitable **healthcare access** for all residents of ZIP Code 45168.