43438, Kelleys Island, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43438, Kelleys Island, Ohio is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.21 percent of residents in 43438 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Firelands Regional Medical Center with a distance of 10.19 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43438

This analysis examines healthcare access for residents of ZIP Code 43438, focusing on the challenges and opportunities related to transportation for individuals managing asthma. The goal is to provide a comprehensive “Asthma Score,” considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Kelleys Island, as their ability to manage asthma effectively hinges on reliable access to healthcare.

ZIP Code 43438 encompasses Kelleys Island, a small island in Lake Erie, Ohio. This geographic isolation presents unique transportation hurdles. The primary mode of transport to the mainland is by ferry. Healthcare access is thus inextricably linked to the ferry schedule and the availability of transportation from the mainland ferry terminals to medical facilities.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Relief**

The most direct route to healthcare from Kelleys Island involves a ferry ride to Marblehead, Ohio. From the Marblehead ferry terminal, the drive to the nearest hospitals and specialist clinics becomes the next critical factor.

The drive to Magruder Hospital in Port Clinton, Ohio, typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, covering approximately 8 miles. The route primarily utilizes Ohio State Route 163. This hospital offers a range of services, including an emergency room, which is crucial for asthma exacerbations. The journey is relatively straightforward, but traffic conditions, especially during peak hours or summer weekends, can significantly impact travel time.

For more specialized care, residents may need to travel further. The drive to Firelands Regional Medical Center in Sandusky, Ohio, is approximately 25 to 35 minutes, spanning around 20 miles. This route involves Ohio State Route 2 and the Ohio Turnpike (Interstate 80/90). Firelands provides a broader range of specialist services, including pulmonology, offering comprehensive asthma management. The Ohio Turnpike requires a toll, adding to the overall cost of healthcare access.

The drive to the University of Toledo Medical Center, a larger facility with extensive specialist care, is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, covering roughly 50 miles. The journey involves taking the Ohio Turnpike (Interstate 80/90) and then Interstate 75. This longer drive time necessitates careful planning, especially during an asthma emergency.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Waters and the Roads**

Public transit options are limited. The primary public transportation component is the ferry service to and from Kelleys Island. The Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line operates the primary ferry service. The schedule varies seasonally, with more frequent service during the summer months. This variability directly impacts healthcare access.

Once on the mainland, public bus services are available, but they may not be readily accessible from the ferry terminals. The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides services in the Toledo area, but its routes may not directly connect to the ferry terminals. This makes coordinating transportation from the ferry to medical appointments complex.

ADA accessibility on the ferry is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. The Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line strives to provide accessible services, but it's essential to confirm specific accommodations are available. Similarly, the ADA compliance of any connecting public transit options must be verified.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: On-Demand Assistance**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability on Kelleys Island and near the ferry terminals may be inconsistent. The availability of drivers can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability presents a significant challenge for asthma sufferers who may require immediate transportation to a healthcare facility.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, including those that serve the Toledo and Sandusky areas. These services require pre-booking, which necessitates proactive planning. Their availability for urgent situations is crucial, but may be limited by the need for advance notice.

**Asthma Score Considerations: A Multifaceted Evaluation**

The “Asthma Score” for ZIP Code 43438 must account for several factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, while relatively short to Port Clinton, can be significantly longer to access specialized care. The reliance on ferry schedules introduces an element of uncertainty. Public transit options are limited, and ride-sharing availability is variable. Medical transport services offer a viable alternative, but they require pre-planning.

The score should also consider the impact of seasonal variations. Winter weather can disrupt ferry services and make road travel more hazardous. Summer weekends bring increased traffic, extending drive times.

**Moving to Kelleys Island: A Healthcare Access Perspective**

For individuals with asthma considering a move to Kelleys Island, a thorough assessment of these transportation challenges is paramount. The "Asthma Score" is not a single number but a comprehensive evaluation of access to care.

The proximity to Magruder Hospital offers a degree of reassurance for immediate needs. However, the need for specialized care necessitates longer travel times and careful planning. The reliability of ferry service, the availability of ride-sharing, and the accessibility of medical transport services must be meticulously investigated.

Individuals with asthma must also consider the importance of having a robust asthma management plan. This plan should include readily available rescue medications, a clear understanding of asthma triggers, and a proactive approach to managing their condition. The isolation of Kelleys Island demands a proactive approach to healthcare.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Island's Healthcare Landscape**

ZIP Code 43438 presents unique challenges for individuals with asthma. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are manageable, the reliance on ferry service, the limited public transit options, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create complexities.

The "Asthma Score" for this area reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The score can be improved by developing a robust asthma management plan, establishing relationships with local healthcare providers, and proactively planning transportation to medical appointments. For those considering moving to Kelleys Island, a thorough understanding of these factors is essential for ensuring effective asthma management and a healthy quality of life. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is key to unlocking the benefits of island living while effectively managing a chronic respiratory condition.