45761, Millfield, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45761, Millfield, Ohio is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.89 percent of residents in 45761 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth O'Bleness Hospital with a distance of 6.96 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45761

Millfield, Ohio, nestled within the 45761 ZIP code, presents a unique tapestry of rural charm and challenges. Understanding the overall health score for residents requires a deep dive into healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation. This write-up will illuminate the realities of getting medical care, factoring in drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport options. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Millfield and assessing their healthcare needs.

The foundation of healthcare access in 45761 is undeniably the automobile. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles to reach medical facilities. The primary arteries for travel are State Route 33 and State Route 13. These roads, while offering scenic views, can become congested during peak hours, extending drive times. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, further complicates travel.

Drive times to the nearest hospitals and clinics are a critical factor. Athens, approximately 15 minutes away via State Route 33, houses OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital, a comprehensive medical center. Further afield, in Nelsonville, roughly 20 minutes via State Route 13, are clinics and urgent care facilities. For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Columbus, a journey of around two hours via US-33, which can be a significant barrier for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations.

Public transportation offers a limited alternative. The Athens County Transit System (ACTS) provides bus service, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily for Athens and do not offer frequent service to Millfield. The ACTS route 1 and route 2 serve the area, but their schedules are limited, and the routes may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities. ADA-accessible buses are available, but the overall frequency and coverage are insufficient to meet the needs of many residents, particularly those without the ability to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability in a rural setting like Millfield are questionable. Availability can fluctuate significantly, and surge pricing during peak demand or inclement weather can make these services cost-prohibitive. The lack of consistent availability poses a significant challenge for those needing regular medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as Medflight, offer a crucial lifeline for emergency situations. However, these services are primarily for critical care and are not a viable option for routine appointments. Other medical transport providers may be available, but their costs and coverage areas need to be carefully considered.

Healthcare access is further complicated by the demographics of Millfield. The population includes a significant percentage of elderly residents and individuals with disabilities, groups that are disproportionately affected by transportation barriers. The lack of convenient and affordable transportation options can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, ultimately impacting health outcomes.

The overall health score for residents of 45761, therefore, reflects a mixed picture. While adequate healthcare facilities exist within a reasonable driving distance, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation and ride-sharing create significant challenges. The cost and availability of transportation are significant factors in healthcare access.

Moving to Millfield requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Prospective residents, especially those with existing health conditions or limited mobility, should thoroughly assess their ability to manage the commute to healthcare. This includes evaluating the reliability of their personal vehicles, understanding the limitations of public transit, and exploring the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. Addressing the transportation challenges in 45761 is crucial for improving the overall health score of its residents. This includes advocating for increased public transportation services, exploring innovative ride-sharing partnerships, and ensuring the affordability of medical transport options.

The health score is not merely a number; it is a reflection of the quality of life and the well-being of the community. It is a call to action, urging policymakers, healthcare providers, and community members to work together to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare system for all residents of Millfield.

The success of healthcare access in 45761 depends on creative solutions. The lack of transportation options impacts healthcare access. The rural nature of the area means the lack of options for people needing to get to healthcare is a significant problem. The community needs to find solutions to improve the health score.