43556, Sherwood, Ohio Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 43556, Sherwood, Ohio is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.26 percent of residents in 43556 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.61 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sherwood, Ohio (ZIP Code 43556)

Considering a move to Sherwood, Ohio (ZIP Code 43556) and managing arthritis? This "Arthritis Score" aims to assess the accessibility of healthcare, specifically rheumatology and related services, factoring in transportation options. This is crucial, as individuals with arthritis often face mobility challenges, making reliable transportation a cornerstone of healthcare access. We’ll examine drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services to paint a clear picture of navigating healthcare in this community.

Sherwood, a small village in Defiance County, presents a unique transportation landscape. The rural setting means navigating distances is often necessary. Understanding this is paramount when considering healthcare access. The “Arthritis Score” will help you understand how easily you can receive care.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Sherwood. Accessing rheumatology care often necessitates travel to larger towns and cities. From Sherwood, the most direct route to major medical centers involves navigating the local road network.

A trip to Parkview Physicians Group in Fort Wayne, Indiana, a common destination for specialized care, typically entails a drive of approximately 50 miles. This journey primarily uses **US-24 West**. Expect drive times to fluctuate between 1 hour and 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This can be a manageable trip, but the frequency of appointments and the potential for traffic delays must be factored into your decision-making.

Another option is the Toledo area, which offers a wider array of healthcare facilities. Driving to Toledo, approximately 60 miles away, requires utilizing **US-24 East** and then connecting to **I-475 North** or **US-23 North**. The drive time typically ranges from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes. This longer journey demands careful planning, especially for individuals experiencing pain or fatigue.

**Navigating Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Sherwood are limited. Defiance County does offer a public transit service, but its route network is not designed for frequent or convenient access to specialized healthcare facilities outside of the immediate area.

The service operates on a demand-response basis, meaning you must schedule rides in advance. This can be challenging for individuals with arthritis, who may experience unpredictable flare-ups requiring urgent medical attention. Furthermore, the vehicles are not always equipped with features specifically designed for individuals with mobility limitations, though they are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The service may provide transportation to local medical appointments within Defiance County, but trips to Fort Wayne or Toledo are less likely to be accommodated. This limits the usefulness of public transit for rheumatology care.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Toledo and Fort Wayne areas. However, their presence in Sherwood is less consistent. Securing a ride may require advanced planning and could be subject to surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand. The availability of ride-sharing services can be a significant advantage, but their reliability in a rural setting should be carefully evaluated.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other assistive devices.

Several medical transport companies serve the region, including:

* **Care Ambulance Service:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Response Ambulance Service:** Offers non-emergency transport and may be able to accommodate specific mobility needs.
* **Mobile Medical Transportation:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation services.

These services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs, including mileage fees. However, they offer a reliable option for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to other forms of transportation.

**Healthcare Access and the "Arthritis Score"**

The "Arthritis Score" for Sherwood, Ohio (43556) reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape. While driving provides the primary access to healthcare, the limited public transit and the potential for ride-share unreliability necessitate careful planning.

The availability of medical transport services offers a valuable alternative, but their cost and the need for advance booking should be considered. The score will be impacted by the distance to specialized care, the availability and reliability of transportation options, and the individual’s mobility needs.

**Making the Right Choice: Moving to Sherwood**

Moving to a new community requires careful consideration of various factors, including healthcare access. For individuals with arthritis, transportation is a critical element. When considering a move to Sherwood, it is essential to:

* Assess your mobility needs and ability to drive.
* Research the availability and cost of medical transport services.
* Explore the potential for ride-sharing services.
* Factor in the drive times to rheumatology and related specialists.
* Consider the availability of local healthcare providers and support services.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Sherwood is the right place for you. The "Arthritis Score" provides a framework for assessing healthcare access and ensuring that your needs are met. This will help you to live comfortably and receive the care you need.

**Disclaimer:** *This "Arthritis Score" write-up is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical or legal advice. Transportation options and healthcare availability may change. Consult with healthcare professionals and transportation providers for the most up-to-date information.*