43556, Sherwood, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43556, Sherwood, Ohio is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.26 percent of residents in 43556 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.61 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sherwood, Ohio (ZIP Code 43556)

The crisp, rural air of Sherwood, Ohio (ZIP Code 43556) offers a certain tranquility, a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, for individuals managing asthma, the serenity of this small town must be balanced with the practicalities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare facilities, offering a comprehensive assessment for those considering moving to Sherwood or already residing within its borders. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities inherent in accessing necessary medical care, focusing on the critical aspect of transportation.

The health and well-being of asthmatics depend on timely access to medical professionals and medications. This write-up will meticulously explore the various transportation options available, from the familiar comfort of personal vehicles to the complexities of public transit and the emerging convenience of ride-sharing services. The assessment will consider drive times, route availability, accessibility features, and the overall practicality of each mode of transportation, ultimately painting a detailed picture of healthcare access within this specific ZIP code.

**The Road to Recovery: Driving to Healthcare**

For many Sherwood residents, the most direct route to healthcare involves the familiar comfort of a personal vehicle. The primary arteries connecting Sherwood to medical facilities are US-24 and State Route 18. Traveling east on US-24 provides access to Defiance, a neighboring city with several healthcare options. The drive to the ProMedica Defiance Hospital, a major regional healthcare provider, typically takes around 20-25 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose challenges, potentially extending travel times.

Heading west on US-24 offers access to Fort Wayne, Indiana, a larger metropolitan area with a wider array of specialized medical services. The drive to Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, a comprehensive facility, can take approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the city. State Route 18 provides a more direct, albeit slower, route to the east, connecting Sherwood to smaller towns with clinics and physician offices.

Navigating these routes requires careful planning, especially for individuals experiencing an asthma exacerbation. The availability of reliable transportation, including a well-maintained vehicle and a designated driver if needed, is crucial. The distance to larger hospitals necessitates considering potential delays due to traffic or inclement weather, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and the availability of emergency services.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Sherwood and the surrounding areas are limited. The Northwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (NORTA) primarily serves the Toledo area, and its reach into rural communities like Sherwood is minimal. Currently, there are no direct NORTA bus routes that operate within ZIP Code 43556 or directly connect to major healthcare facilities in Defiance or Fort Wayne.

Individuals relying on public transit would likely need to utilize a combination of services, potentially involving a ride to a central hub, followed by a bus connection. This would significantly increase travel times and introduce multiple points of potential delay. The lack of direct routes underscores the challenges faced by individuals without access to personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on any hypothetical connecting routes would need to be carefully investigated. Ensuring that buses have ramps or lifts, designated seating, and audio-visual announcements is critical for individuals with disabilities. The current lack of robust public transit options presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have become increasingly prevalent, offering a potential solution for transportation needs. However, the availability of these services in Sherwood is variable and may be limited compared to larger urban areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized option. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including assistance with entering and exiting vehicles and navigating medical facilities. Several medical transportation companies may serve the Sherwood area, including, but not limited to, CareRide, First Transit, and local, independent providers.

However, the availability of these services can vary, and advance booking is often required. The cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and coverage by insurance providers should be carefully investigated. The reliability and timeliness of these services are critical, as missed appointments can have serious consequences for individuals managing asthma.

**Moving to Sherwood: A Transportation Perspective**

For individuals considering moving to Sherwood, the availability of reliable transportation for healthcare access should be a paramount consideration. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of having access to a well-maintained car and a valid driver's license. The limited public transit options and the potential variability of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning.

The proximity to Defiance and Fort Wayne offers access to a range of healthcare facilities, but the travel times must be factored into the decision-making process. Individuals with asthma should proactively identify local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians and pulmonologists, and assess the accessibility of their offices.

Furthermore, prospective residents should investigate the availability of medical transportation services and understand the associated costs and insurance coverage. The ability to secure reliable transportation for routine appointments and emergency situations is crucial for managing asthma effectively.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Accessing healthcare in Sherwood, Ohio (ZIP Code 43556) requires a multifaceted approach to transportation. While the rural setting offers a sense of peace, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges for individuals managing asthma. Careful planning, proactive identification of transportation resources, and a thorough understanding of available options are essential.

For individuals considering moving to Sherwood, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of healthcare services is crucial. The ability to secure reliable and timely transportation is paramount for maintaining optimal health and well-being. The "Asthma Score" for this ZIP code highlights the importance of prioritizing transportation when evaluating the suitability of Sherwood as a place to live, ensuring that healthcare access is not a barrier to a fulfilling and healthy life.