45255, Cincinnati, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45255, Cincinnati, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.65 percent of residents in 45255 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.19 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health-Anderson Hospital with a distance of 1.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45255

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and accessibility plays a significant role. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of ZIP code 45255, focusing on the ease of commuting to healthcare facilities. The score considers various transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this Cincinnati community.

The "Overall Health Score" is based on a weighted average of these factors, with drive times receiving the highest weight due to their direct impact on accessibility. Public transit availability and reliability are given significant consideration, followed by the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. This holistic approach aims to provide a realistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare within and around 45255.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

For residents of 45255, the primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are Interstate 275 (I-275) and Interstate 75 (I-75). These highways provide crucial links to major hospitals and medical centers in the Cincinnati metropolitan area. The proximity of these major roadways is a significant advantage, offering relatively quick access to a wide range of healthcare providers. However, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times.

For example, a trip from 45255 to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, a major tertiary care facility, typically involves navigating I-275 and I-75. During off-peak hours, this journey might take approximately 20-30 minutes. However, during rush hour, the same trip could easily extend to 45 minutes or even an hour, significantly impacting the timeliness of medical care. Similarly, accessing hospitals in the northern suburbs, such as TriHealth's Bethesda North Hospital, often involves traveling on I-275, potentially adding considerable travel time depending on traffic conditions.

Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities, often located along major thoroughfares like Colerain Avenue and Hamilton Avenue, offer more localized options. While these facilities may be closer geographically, their scope of services might be limited compared to larger hospitals. Therefore, residents must weigh the convenience of proximity against the comprehensive care offered by larger medical centers. The ability to quickly reach these facilities is critical for managing urgent medical needs.

**Public Transit Accessibility:**

The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating under the brand name Metro, provides public transportation services in the Cincinnati area. Several Metro bus routes serve the 45255 ZIP code, offering an alternative to driving. These routes, including numbers 19, 20, and 23, provide access to various healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can be a limiting factor.

Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial consideration. Metro buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential transfer times can still pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring urgent medical attention. While Metro offers a cost-effective transportation option, it may not be the most efficient or convenient choice for all residents, particularly those with complex medical needs or time-sensitive appointments. The overall impact on healthcare access depends on individual circumstances and the availability of accessible routes.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer on-demand transportation options, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. These services can be particularly beneficial for individuals who do not own a car or who are unable to drive due to medical conditions. The ease of booking a ride and the relatively short wait times make ride-sharing a valuable asset for accessing healthcare.

However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier for some residents, especially for frequent trips to healthcare facilities. Additionally, surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further increase transportation costs. The availability of ride-sharing services may also vary depending on the time of day and the specific location within the 45255 ZIP code.

Specialized medical transport services cater to individuals with specific medical needs, such as those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. Several providers, including CareRide and MedTrans, operate in the Cincinnati area, offering transportation to and from medical appointments. These services are particularly important for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require medical assistance during transport.

While medical transport services provide a crucial service, they can be expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of these services can also be limited, especially for short-notice appointments. The overall accessibility of ride-sharing and medical transport services is a crucial factor in determining the "Overall Health Score" for residents of 45255.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the various transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for accessing healthcare in 45255 is considered moderate. The proximity to major highways offers relatively quick access to major hospitals, but traffic congestion can significantly impact drive times. Public transit provides a cost-effective alternative, but service frequency and accessibility limitations can pose challenges. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenient options, but their cost and availability can be barriers.

**Recommendations:**

* **Improve Public Transit:** Increase the frequency of Metro bus routes serving 45255, especially during evenings and weekends. Enhance the accessibility of bus stops and improve the overall reliability of the public transit system.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Programs:** Explore partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates for medical appointments, particularly for low-income residents.
* **Expand Medical Transport Services:** Increase the availability of medical transport services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher transport, to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities.
* **Community Awareness:** Educate residents about the available transportation options for accessing healthcare, including public transit routes, ride-sharing services, and medical transport providers.
* **Strategic Location:** For individuals considering moving to Cincinnati, especially those with healthcare needs, 45255 offers a decent balance of accessibility. However, it's crucial to factor in specific healthcare requirements and transportation preferences when making a decision.

By addressing these recommendations, the community can enhance healthcare access for all residents of 45255, improving their overall health and well-being. This includes providing more efficient transportation options for individuals seeking medical care. The goal is to create a healthcare landscape that is accessible, affordable, and responsive to the diverse needs of the community.