45883, Saint Henry, Ohio Arthritis Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Arthritis Score in 45883, Saint Henry, Ohio is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.89 percent of residents in 45883 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.12 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grand Lake Health System with a distance of 16.73 miles from the area.

## Arthritis Score: Navigating Healthcare in Saint Henry, Ohio (ZIP Code 45883)

Deciding to relocate to Saint Henry, Ohio, is a significant life choice, particularly for individuals managing arthritis. The tranquility of this Mercer County village, nestled amidst fertile farmlands, offers a unique charm. However, when considering a move, especially with health concerns, a thorough understanding of **transportation** options and **healthcare access** is crucial. This "Arthritis Score" write-up provides a detailed assessment of the challenges and opportunities for residents of ZIP Code 45883, focusing on the practical realities of accessing medical care.

The primary concern for those with arthritis is the ease of reaching medical appointments. Pain, stiffness, and limited mobility can make even short journeys arduous. Therefore, this analysis examines the **transportation** landscape, providing insight into how residents of Saint Henry can navigate the healthcare system.

**Driving the Distance:**

For most residents, the automobile remains the dominant mode of **transportation**. Saint Henry's location, approximately 15 miles from Celina, the county seat, and a similar distance from the larger city of Coldwater, influences healthcare access. The main arteries for travel are State Route 118, which runs directly through Saint Henry, and State Route 703, connecting to Celina.

Reaching the Mercer Health Medical Group in Celina, a common destination for primary care and specialist appointments, typically involves a 20-30 minute drive. This journey is generally straightforward, with well-maintained roads. However, inclement weather, such as snow or ice, can significantly impact travel times and safety, a critical consideration for individuals with arthritis.

Specialist care often necessitates travel to larger regional centers like Lima, Ohio, about a 45-minute drive via US-127 and I-75. This route involves highway driving, which can be tiring for those with joint pain. Furthermore, traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can exacerbate the challenges of a longer commute. The availability of ample parking and accessible entrances at medical facilities in both Celina and Lima is also a key factor in the "Arthritis Score."

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options in Mercer County are limited. The Western Ohio Regional Transit Authority (WORTA) provides demand-response service. This means that individuals must schedule rides in advance, often requiring several days' notice. WORTA operates within a relatively small service area, and its accessibility for individuals with disabilities (ADA) is a critical factor.

While WORTA vehicles are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other ADA features, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking make it less than ideal for spontaneous appointments or urgent care needs. The lack of fixed-route bus services in Saint Henry presents a significant challenge for those who cannot or prefer not to drive. The "Arthritis Score" reflects this limited public **transportation** availability as a major hurdle to **healthcare access**.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the region, though their availability and response times can vary, particularly in rural areas. The reliability of ride-sharing for scheduled medical appointments is a crucial factor. Individuals with arthritis must consider the potential for delays or cancellations, which can be especially problematic.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by local ambulance services or specialized medical **transportation** companies, provide a more structured option for non-emergency medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and vehicles equipped to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, these services typically come at a higher cost, and their availability should be verified in advance. The "Arthritis Score" weighs the cost and availability of these services.

**Healthcare Facilities and Accessibility:**

The proximity of healthcare facilities is a primary determinant of **healthcare access**. The Mercer Health Medical Group in Celina offers a range of primary care physicians, specialists, and ancillary services. The hospital itself provides emergency care and inpatient services. The physical accessibility of these facilities, including ramps, elevators, accessible parking, and accessible examination rooms, is paramount for individuals with arthritis.

In addition to Mercer Health, residents may seek care at facilities in Lima or other surrounding communities. The "Arthritis Score" takes into account the accessibility features of these facilities. The availability of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitative services within a reasonable distance is also a critical component of the score.

**Moving to Saint Henry: Considerations for Arthritis Patients:**

For individuals with arthritis considering **moving to Saint Henry**, a careful evaluation of these **transportation** and **healthcare access** factors is essential. The relative isolation of the village, combined with the limited public **transportation** options, presents challenges.

However, the close-knit community and the availability of local support services, such as home healthcare and in-home physical therapy, can mitigate some of these challenges. The "Arthritis Score" encourages prospective residents to research the availability of these services.

The decision to move to Saint Henry requires a thoughtful assessment of individual needs and priorities. While the rural setting offers peace and quiet, the practicality of accessing healthcare must be carefully weighed. The "Arthritis Score" aims to provide a clear picture of the realities of **healthcare access** for residents of ZIP Code 45883, empowering them to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The "Arthritis Score" will be updated regularly to reflect changes in **transportation** and **healthcare access** options.