43416, Elmore, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43416, Elmore, Ohio is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.62 percent of residents in 43416 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.99 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 12.58 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Elmore, Ohio (ZIP Code 43416)

Relocating to a new community, especially with the added complexity of managing asthma, necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. This “Asthma Score” write-up, specifically tailored for ZIP Code 43416 (Elmore, Ohio), aims to provide a comprehensive overview of transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for ensuring timely and efficient healthcare delivery. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and specialized medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents with asthma.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Elmore, and indeed the surrounding region, is the automobile. Personal vehicles offer the most direct and flexible route to medical appointments. Driving to the nearest hospitals, the Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, or the Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, presents the primary option for many.

Traveling to Wood County Hospital, a vital local resource, involves navigating the rural landscape. The journey typically begins on **State Route 105**, a major artery connecting Elmore to Bowling Green. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-25 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but weather can significantly impact travel times, particularly during winter months.

For specialized care or a broader range of services, the larger medical centers in Toledo become necessary. Reaching Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center from Elmore entails a longer commute. The most direct route utilizes **State Route 579** east, merging onto **Interstate 280** south. Expect a drive time of roughly 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic. Rush hour, particularly in the Toledo area, can considerably extend this time, making early morning or late afternoon appointments potentially challenging. Alternative routes, such as utilizing **State Route 2** and **Interstate 75**, exist but may not always offer a faster journey, especially during peak traffic.

Public transportation options in Elmore and the surrounding areas are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. While the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides service in the Toledo metropolitan area, its reach into Elmore is minimal.

TARTA does not directly serve Elmore. However, individuals could potentially utilize a combination of services, though this is not practical. This would involve a ride to a TARTA hub outside of Elmore, and then a bus to a healthcare facility. This is not a viable option for someone with asthma. This lack of public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a car. This is a critical factor for anyone considering moving to Elmore, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, though their availability in Elmore may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Ride-share availability fluctuates based on driver density and demand. Booking a ride may require advance planning, especially for appointments scheduled during off-peak hours or in the evenings.

The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent medical appointments. The financial burden of relying on ride-sharing could be substantial, potentially impacting healthcare affordability. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly in inclement weather, also presents a consideration.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services provide specialized transportation, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including but not limited to, ProMedica Transportation and LifeCare Ambulance.

These services can be invaluable for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. However, they typically require advance booking and can be more expensive than ride-sharing or personal vehicles. The availability of these services, particularly during peak demand, should be confirmed prior to relocating.

The “Asthma Score” for Elmore, Ohio, reflects a mixed picture regarding healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles presents both advantages and disadvantages. While drive times to nearby hospitals are reasonable, the absence of robust public transportation and the potential variability of ride-share services pose challenges.

For individuals with asthma, the ability to quickly and reliably access medical care is paramount. The drive times to hospitals in Bowling Green and Toledo, while manageable, require careful planning, especially considering potential traffic delays and weather conditions. The limited public transit options necessitate a reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or specialized medical transport services.

The decision to move to Elmore, Ohio, requires a careful evaluation of these transportation factors. Prospective residents with asthma should thoroughly assess their ability to access healthcare, considering their individual needs and circumstances. The availability of personal vehicles, the potential costs of ride-sharing, and the need for specialized medical transport services should be carefully considered.

Ultimately, the “Asthma Score” for Elmore highlights the importance of proactive planning and informed decision-making. By understanding the transportation landscape and the available healthcare resources, individuals with asthma can make informed choices and ensure their healthcare needs are adequately met. The availability of reliable transportation is crucial for maintaining good health and quality of life.