43420, Fremont, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43420, Fremont, Ohio is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.37 percent of residents in 43420 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.03 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.06 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fremont, Ohio (ZIP Code 43420)

Fremont, Ohio, nestled along the Sandusky River, presents a unique tapestry of life, a blend of small-town charm and accessible amenities. For individuals managing asthma, the ease of **healthcare access** is paramount, a critical consideration when **moving to Fremont**. This write-up, an "Asthma Score" assessment, delves into the **transportation** landscape within and surrounding ZIP code 43420, evaluating the feasibility of reaching essential medical services, particularly for those with respiratory sensitivities.

The primary focus is on accessibility to healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, pulmonologists, emergency rooms, and pharmacies. This assessment considers the various modes of **transportation** available, analyzing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, all within the context of managing asthma.

**Drive Time Dynamics:**

The cornerstone of **transportation** in Fremont is undoubtedly the automobile. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles for daily commutes, including journeys to healthcare facilities. The primary thoroughfares facilitating these trips are US-20, the major east-west artery; OH-19, running north-south; and the network of local roads that weave through the city.

For routine appointments, the drive times are generally manageable. Proximity to the ProMedica Memorial Hospital, located at 715 Oak Harbor Road, is a significant advantage. From most residential areas within 43420, the hospital is accessible within a 10-15 minute drive, contingent upon traffic conditions. The route typically involves navigating local streets to connect with OH-19 or US-20, depending on the origin point.

Specialist appointments, such as pulmonology consultations, may necessitate travel to larger regional centers like Toledo, approximately 40 miles north. This journey, primarily via the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90) or US-20, can take around an hour, potentially longer during peak traffic. Patients with asthma should factor in this extended travel time, considering the potential for exacerbations and the need for readily available medication and inhalers.

Emergency situations demand swift access to medical care. The proximity of ProMedica Memorial Hospital offers a crucial advantage. However, in the event of severe respiratory distress, the ambulance service, provided by the Fremont Fire Department, is the primary mode of transport. Response times are generally efficient within the city limits, but the time required to stabilize a patient and transport them to the hospital remains a critical factor.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transit in Fremont is limited, presenting challenges for individuals reliant on this mode of **transportation**. The Sandusky County Public Transportation (SCPT) offers bus services, but the routes and frequency are restricted, especially on weekends and evenings.

The primary routes operated by SCPT are designed to serve the general public, but they may not be ideally suited for individuals with asthma, particularly those experiencing acute symptoms. Bus stops may not always be conveniently located near medical facilities, and the unpredictable nature of bus schedules can add to the stress of managing a respiratory condition.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. SCPT buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the availability of these features and the overall suitability of public transit for asthma patients require careful evaluation. Individuals considering using public transit should contact SCPT directly to confirm route availability, schedule adherence, and the presence of accessible features.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Fremont, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. The availability of these services, however, can be variable, especially during off-peak hours and in less populated areas. Patients with asthma should ensure reliable access to these services for appointments and emergencies.

Medical transport services cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services, such as First Call Medical Transportation and others, provide non-emergency medical transport, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. This is a crucial option for individuals who cannot drive or use public transit due to their asthma.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services should be factored into the overall **healthcare access** assessment. These services can be more expensive than driving or using public transit, especially for frequent appointments.

**Pharmacies and Medication Access:**

Access to pharmacies is a critical component of asthma management. Fremont has several pharmacies, including chain pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens, as well as independent pharmacies. These pharmacies offer prescription refills, over-the-counter medications, and asthma-related supplies, such as inhalers and nebulizers.

The proximity of pharmacies to residential areas and healthcare facilities is generally good within 43420. However, individuals with asthma should verify the pharmacy's hours of operation, especially for after-hours refills.

**Overall Asthma Score Considerations:**

The "Asthma Score" for Fremont, Ohio (43420) is a nuanced assessment. While the proximity of ProMedica Memorial Hospital provides a significant advantage, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges.

Individuals with asthma should carefully evaluate the following factors when considering **moving to Fremont**:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Providers:** Assess the distance and travel time to primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and emergency rooms.
* **Reliability of Transportation:** Evaluate the availability and reliability of personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.
* **Public Transit Feasibility:** Determine the suitability of public transit based on route availability, schedule adherence, and ADA accessibility.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Confirm the proximity and operating hours of pharmacies.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Develop a plan for accessing emergency medical services, including ambulance services and emergency room access.

**Conclusion:**

Fremont, Ohio, offers a blend of advantages and challenges for individuals with asthma. The relative proximity to healthcare providers, coupled with the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, provides a degree of **healthcare access**. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles necessitate careful planning and consideration. By proactively assessing the **transportation** landscape and developing a comprehensive asthma management plan, individuals can navigate the challenges and thrive in this community. This assessment is a starting point, and further research and personalized evaluation are crucial for making informed decisions about **moving to Fremont** and managing asthma effectively.