43512, Defiance, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43512, Defiance, Ohio is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.52 percent of residents in 43512 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Defiance Hospital with a distance of 1.00 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Defiance, Ohio (ZIP Code 43512)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for individuals managing asthma, extends far beyond the doctor's office door. It encompasses the complexities of transportation, the availability of options, and the impact of these factors on overall well-being. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 43512 (Defiance, Ohio), provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, evaluating the ease and accessibility of healthcare access, considering the unique challenges presented by asthma management and the available transportation infrastructure. This is critical information for anyone considering moving to Defiance, particularly those managing respiratory conditions.

The very fabric of healthcare access in Defiance is woven with the threads of transportation. The ability to attend appointments, pick up prescriptions, and access emergency care significantly impacts an individual's ability to effectively manage their asthma. Understanding the available modes of transportation and their associated challenges is paramount to assessing the overall "Asthma Score" for this region.

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation in Defiance. The central artery for travel is **US-24**, a major east-west highway. Accessing healthcare facilities via this route is generally straightforward, although traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can introduce delays. **State Route 66** and **State Route 18** provide additional routes, offering alternative paths to healthcare providers. The drive to the most prominent healthcare facility, ProMedica Defiance Hospital, is typically a short one, usually under 10 minutes depending on the starting point within the ZIP code.

However, driving isn't always a viable option. Individuals who cannot drive, or prefer not to, are then faced with a different set of challenges. Public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options become crucial lifelines. The absence of robust public transportation can significantly lower the "Asthma Score" for those reliant on alternatives.

Defiance County does offer some limited public transportation options. The Defiance County Council on Aging provides transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, these services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours, potentially hindering spontaneous healthcare needs. The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility limitations, further influencing the "Asthma Score."

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another potential solution, but their presence in Defiance is limited. Availability can be inconsistent, and the cost of these services can be prohibitive for frequent healthcare appointments. The reliance on ride-sharing, therefore, is not a reliable solution for consistent healthcare access.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies, provide non-emergency medical transportation. However, these services often require pre-booking and may be subject to specific eligibility criteria. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier to access.

The "Asthma Score" also considers the proximity of pharmacies and other essential healthcare services. The availability of pharmacies within the ZIP code is generally good, with several options available for prescription refills and over-the-counter medications. However, the distance to these pharmacies and the ease of access via transportation methods must be factored into the overall score.

The impact of seasonal weather conditions on transportation cannot be overlooked. Defiance experiences all four seasons, including harsh winters with snow and ice. These conditions can significantly impact road conditions, potentially delaying or even preventing access to healthcare facilities. This factor further complicates the "Asthma Score" assessment.

The availability of urgent care facilities and emergency services is another critical consideration. ProMedica Defiance Hospital provides emergency care, but the distance and ease of access to this facility are vital. The "Asthma Score" would be negatively impacted if access to emergency care is hampered by transportation limitations.

Considering all these factors, the "Asthma Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43512 presents a mixed picture. While the proximity of healthcare facilities and pharmacies is generally good, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation and ride-sharing services pose significant challenges for individuals with asthma, particularly those who are unable to drive or have limited mobility.

The "Asthma Score" can be improved by expanding public transportation options, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and providing financial assistance for medical transportation. Furthermore, improved awareness of available resources and services is crucial.

For individuals considering moving to Defiance, or for those already residing there, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and a careful evaluation of the available resources are essential. Understanding the limitations and potential challenges associated with healthcare access is critical for successful asthma management. The "Asthma Score" serves as a valuable tool for evaluating these factors and making informed decisions about healthcare access.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all residents of Defiance, including those with asthma, have equitable access to the healthcare they need, regardless of their transportation limitations. This requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, local government, and community organizations to improve the transportation infrastructure and support services. The future of healthcare access in Defiance hinges on the ability to address these challenges and create a more accessible and supportive environment for all residents.