43457, Risingsun, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43457, Risingsun, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.43 percent of residents in 43457 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.26 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 15.72 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Risingsun, Ohio (ZIP Code 43457)

The crisp air of Risingsun, Ohio, in ZIP code 43457, holds a certain charm, a promise of rural tranquility. Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the idyllic setting presents a complex equation. Healthcare access, a critical component of asthma management, becomes a logistical puzzle. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the intricacies of transportation options available, providing a detailed analysis for those considering moving to Risingsun, or currently residing there, and needing to access crucial medical care.

The cornerstone of this analysis rests on the reality of commute times. Risingsun, a village nestled in Wood County, is not a metropolis. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are located in surrounding cities, necessitating travel. The primary thoroughfare for vehicular traffic is **State Route 199**, which snakes through the village, connecting it to the larger network of roads. To the west, this route leads towards Bowling Green, a city boasting a significant concentration of medical services.

Driving to the Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, a journey of approximately 18 miles, typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. **Interstate 75**, a major north-south artery, is accessible via **State Route 18**, offering a more direct, albeit potentially congested, route. This option could shave off a few minutes, but the unpredictable nature of interstate traffic must be factored into the equation, especially during peak hours.

To the east, **State Route 199** connects to **State Route 18**, providing access to the city of Fremont, approximately 17 miles away. Fremont is home to ProMedica Memorial Hospital, a facility offering a range of specialized medical services. The drive to Fremont usually takes between 25 to 35 minutes, again, dependent on traffic flow.

Beyond these established routes, secondary roads, such as **Sand Ridge Road** and **Bradner Road**, offer alternative paths. However, these roads are often less maintained and can add to travel time, particularly during inclement weather. The crucial element is the unpredictability of time, an important factor for anyone managing asthma, where timely access to medical attention can be life-saving.

Public transportation options in Risingsun are limited. Wood County, like many rural areas, lacks a robust public transit system. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) operates a demand-response service, primarily designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While this service can be utilized for medical appointments, it necessitates advance booking and is subject to availability. The WCCOA service is not a fixed-route system and does not have designated route numbers. It does, however, offer ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. The availability of this service is crucial for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle, making it a lifeline for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability is not guaranteed. The presence of these services is contingent upon driver availability, which can fluctuate significantly, especially during off-peak hours or in the more rural areas. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is therefore not advisable. The reliability of ride-sharing is a key factor to consider when assessing the overall asthma score.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for non-emergency medical transport, offer another avenue for accessing healthcare. These services, such as First Transit and American Medical Response (AMR), provide scheduled transportation to and from medical appointments. They often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during transit. However, these services typically require pre-booking and can be costly, making them less accessible for some individuals. The cost of these services must be factored into the overall assessment of healthcare access.

The availability of these transportation options directly impacts the asthma score. The longer the travel time to a healthcare facility, the lower the score. The reliability of the transportation method also plays a significant role. A consistently available and dependable transportation option will improve the score, while a less reliable option will diminish it.

For individuals with asthma, healthcare access is not merely about distance; it is about the ability to reach medical care quickly and efficiently. The ability to access medical care is paramount for the effective management of asthma. This includes regular check-ups, access to medications, and the ability to seek immediate medical attention during an asthma exacerbation.

Considering a move to Risingsun requires careful consideration of these transportation factors. While the village offers a peaceful environment, the limitations in transportation options pose challenges for individuals managing asthma. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services necessitate meticulous planning.

The "Asthma Score" for Risingsun, Ohio, ZIP code 43457, is therefore, moderate. While the village offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the relative distance to healthcare facilities and the limitations in transportation options necessitate proactive planning and a reliance on personal vehicles. The availability of the WCCOA demand-response service and the potential for medical transportation services provide critical lifelines for those who cannot drive.

Ultimately, the suitability of Risingsun for individuals with asthma hinges on their ability to navigate these transportation challenges. Careful consideration of these factors, along with a proactive approach to healthcare planning, is essential for ensuring optimal asthma management in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community. The asthma score is a dynamic assessment, and it is crucial to regularly re-evaluate it based on individual needs and the evolving landscape of transportation options.