45246, Cincinnati, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45246, Cincinnati, Ohio is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.92 percent of residents in 45246 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Fairfield Hospital with a distance of 2.98 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Navigating Healthcare in 45246

Considering a move to Cincinnati, specifically the 45246 ZIP code? Understanding healthcare access is paramount for your overall well-being. This analysis provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' based on the ease of **transportation** to medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. This score aims to equip you with the knowledge needed to make an informed decision about your healthcare needs in this area.

The 45246 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Symmes Township and Mason, enjoys a relatively suburban character. This impacts healthcare access, primarily through the lens of personal vehicle **transportation**. Drive times are a critical factor, especially for routine appointments and emergencies.

**Drive Times: The Road to Wellness**

From central 45246, a significant portion of healthcare facilities are readily accessible. Mercy Health – West Hospital, while technically outside the ZIP code, is often the closest major hospital, typically a 20-25 minute drive via I-71 South. This route, a major artery, usually offers a smooth journey, though rush hour can significantly extend travel times.

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, a nationally recognized pediatric facility, requires a longer commute, around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. The primary route involves navigating I-71 South and then transitioning onto various surface streets near the hospital. Consider the potential for delays, particularly during school drop-off and pick-up times.

For specialized care, such as oncology or cardiology, the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC) represents a significant option. Reaching UCMC generally takes around 35-45 minutes, primarily utilizing I-71 South. Traffic fluctuations can substantially impact these travel times, especially during peak periods.

Smaller, specialized clinics and urgent care facilities are scattered throughout the region. Accessing these facilities is generally easier, with drive times often ranging from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on location within the ZIP code. Surface streets such as Mason-Montgomery Road and Fields Ertel Road are vital for this short-distance **transportation**.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Network**

The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating under the brand name Metro, provides public transit services in the Cincinnati area. However, the 45246 ZIP code has limited direct public **transportation** options to major healthcare facilities.

Metro routes primarily serve the more urban areas of Cincinnati. While specific route numbers vary, they generally involve a combination of bus transfers to reach hospitals and medical centers. The routes often lack direct connections, which can result in extended travel times, potentially exceeding an hour or more for some destinations.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. Metro offers ADA-compliant buses, featuring ramps and designated seating areas. However, the frequency of service and the need for transfers can pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. Planning your trip in advance and utilizing Metro's online trip planner is essential.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the 45246 area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or prefer not to drive. However, ride-sharing costs can accumulate, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical **transportation** services, such as CareRide and GoHealth, are specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with mobility needs. While they offer a valuable service, availability and cost vary.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The 'Overall Health Score' for the 45246 ZIP code reflects a mixed picture. While the area benefits from relatively short drive times to many healthcare facilities, the limited public transit options present a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternatives, but their cost and availability must be considered.

The score is influenced by the suburban nature of the area. The reliance on personal vehicles for **transportation** underscores the importance of considering traffic patterns and potential delays when planning healthcare appointments. The availability of various medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance is a positive factor.

**Factors Influencing the Score**

* **Drive Time Accessibility:** The proximity of healthcare facilities to the ZIP code is a key positive factor. The ability to reach many facilities within 30 minutes contributes to a favorable score.
* **Public Transit Limitations:** The lack of direct and frequent public transit options to major hospitals and medical centers significantly impacts the score negatively.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability of ride-sharing services and specialized medical **transportation** provides alternative options, but their associated costs and potential availability constraints influence the score.
* **Specialized Care Access:** The drive times to specialized facilities, such as Cincinnati Children's Hospital and UCMC, are a factor.
* **ADA Accessibility:** The availability of ADA-compliant public transit is a positive factor, but the need for transfers can still be a challenge.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision**

For those considering **moving to Cincinnati** and residing in the 45246 ZIP code, understanding healthcare access is vital. The 'Overall Health Score' highlights the importance of personal vehicles for healthcare **transportation**. While ride-sharing and medical transport services offer viable alternatives, potential residents should consider their individual needs and preferences when evaluating this area.

Before making a decision, prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs, consider their reliance on public transit or ride-sharing, and factor in potential travel times to various medical facilities. A proactive approach to healthcare access planning ensures a smoother transition and contributes to a higher quality of life in the 45246 ZIP code.