43623, Toledo, Ohio Alzheimers Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Alzheimers Score in 43623, Toledo, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.20 percent of residents in 43623 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Promedica Toledo Hospital with a distance of 3.48 miles from the area.

## Alzheimer's Score: Commuting to Healthcare in 43623

This analysis assesses the transportation landscape within ZIP code 43623, focusing on healthcare access for individuals potentially facing cognitive decline, particularly those considering a move to Toledo, Ohio. The "Alzheimer's Score" considers factors crucial for navigating healthcare appointments, including drive times, public transit accessibility, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities for those living with, or at risk of, Alzheimer's disease.

43623, encompassing parts of Maumee, Ohio, presents a suburban environment with varied transportation options. The primary challenge lies in its reliance on personal vehicles. The area is not densely populated, which impacts the frequency and reach of public transit. This makes navigating the healthcare system potentially difficult for those who can no longer drive or prefer not to.

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation. Accessing healthcare facilities often involves navigating major thoroughfares. For example, reaching the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC), a major regional healthcare provider, from various points within 43623 typically requires utilizing the Anthony Wayne Trail (US-24) and, depending on the origin, possibly the I-475/US-23 interchange. The drive can vary from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, which can be particularly problematic for individuals with cognitive impairments. Rush hour and inclement weather add further complexity, potentially increasing travel times and stress levels.

Further, the drive to ProMedica Flower Hospital, another major healthcare provider, often involves using the Maumee-Western Road and the Anthony Wayne Trail. This drive is generally shorter, around 10 to 20 minutes. However, the need to navigate intersections and manage traffic signals can be challenging for those with diminished cognitive abilities.

Public transportation, offered by the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA), presents an alternative, but its effectiveness in 43623 is limited. The routes serving the area are less frequent than those in more urbanized areas. Route 20, for example, provides service along Maumee-Western Road, offering a connection to downtown Toledo and, subsequently, to some healthcare facilities. However, the frequency is lower, and the routes are not always direct. This can result in extended travel times and multiple transfers, which can be overwhelming for individuals with cognitive impairments.

TARTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. This is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility issues that often accompany Alzheimer's. However, the limited route coverage and potential for long wait times remain significant barriers to reliable healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the Toledo area. These services offer a convenient alternative to driving, providing door-to-door transportation. However, the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. Furthermore, individuals with cognitive decline may require assistance from a caregiver or family member to manage the ride-sharing process, including booking the ride and ensuring they arrive at the correct destination.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, are also available. Brands like CareRide and several local providers offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, these services can be more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit, and booking in advance is often required.

The availability of these services in 43623 is a crucial factor in the Alzheimer's Score. The score considers the ease of access to these services, the cost, and the level of support they provide. For example, a high score would be assigned to a location with readily available, affordable, and accessible transportation options, with services that cater to the specific needs of individuals with cognitive impairments.

Healthcare access is a critical component of quality of life, especially for those managing Alzheimer's disease. The ability to attend appointments, receive necessary treatments, and maintain social connections is vital for their well-being. The transportation challenges faced by residents of 43623 can significantly impact their ability to access these essential services.

When considering moving to Toledo, particularly to a ZIP code like 43623, individuals and families should carefully assess the transportation options available. They should consider their ability to drive, the availability of public transit, the cost of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transport.

The proximity to healthcare facilities is also a key factor. While 43623 offers access to several hospitals and clinics, the travel time and the ease of access to these facilities must be considered. The Alzheimer's Score takes this into account, evaluating the distance to healthcare providers and the availability of transportation options to reach them.

The overall Alzheimer's Score for 43623 reflects the transportation landscape's strengths and weaknesses. While the area offers access to major healthcare providers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges for those with cognitive impairments. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides some relief, but cost and availability can be a concern.

The score is not a static number but a reflection of the complex interplay between transportation, healthcare access, and the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's. It serves as a valuable tool for individuals and families considering a move to Toledo and for healthcare providers seeking to improve access to care for their patients in 43623. This analysis underscores the importance of proactive planning and the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options for those facing cognitive decline.