43567, Wauseon, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 43567, Wauseon, Ohio is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.68 percent of residents in 43567 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Health Center with a distance of 1.77 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Wauseon (ZIP Code 43567)

The decision to move to a new community, particularly one with a unique geographic profile like Wauseon, Ohio (ZIP Code 43567), necessitates a thorough understanding of healthcare access. For individuals managing asthma, this understanding becomes paramount. This write-up provides an "Asthma Score" assessment, focusing on transportation options to healthcare facilities, considering the specific challenges and opportunities within this ZIP code. We'll delve into drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, offering a comprehensive perspective for those prioritizing healthcare access in their relocation plans.

Wauseon, nestled in Fulton County, presents a landscape dominated by agricultural land, intersected by key transportation arteries. The town's relatively small size influences healthcare accessibility, but the surrounding area and the presence of major highways offer diverse possibilities. The "Asthma Score" will reflect the ease with which a resident can reach medical care, factoring in the potential for exacerbations and the need for prompt intervention.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

For many, personal vehicle transportation remains the most direct route to healthcare. Understanding drive times is crucial. Fulton County Health Center, the primary hospital serving Wauseon, is the central destination. From most residential areas within 43567, a drive to the hospital will likely involve travel on local roads like Ottokee Street, Main Street, and Fulton Street. These roads generally experience low traffic volume, contributing to shorter travel times.

However, the potential for delays exists, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather conditions. The primary highway serving the area is US-20A, which connects Wauseon to surrounding communities. US-20A is a vital route for accessing healthcare outside of Wauseon, such as in Archbold or Bryan. Traveling east on US-20A provides access to the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90), offering further connectivity to larger healthcare centers in Toledo and beyond.

The drive time to Fulton County Health Center from most parts of Wauseon is typically under 10 minutes. Traveling to Toledo, a major healthcare hub, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and the specific destination. The Ohio Turnpike, while offering a faster route, involves tolls, which should be factored into the overall cost of transportation.

**Public Transit: Limited but Functional**

Public transportation options in Wauseon are limited but available. The Fulton County Transit System provides demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system is crucial for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The transit system operates within Fulton County, offering connections to healthcare facilities within the county and limited access to neighboring areas.

The Fulton County Transit System offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Riders with asthma may benefit from requesting a vehicle with air conditioning, especially during warmer months. The scheduling process requires advance planning, which could present challenges during urgent medical situations. However, the system provides a valuable lifeline for those lacking alternative transportation.

**Ride-Share Services: A Growing Presence**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, have a presence in Wauseon, though their availability may fluctuate depending on driver availability. The presence of these services provides another transportation option, especially for those needing occasional rides to medical appointments. The convenience of on-demand transportation can be particularly beneficial for individuals with unpredictable asthma symptoms.

However, ride-share services are subject to surge pricing during peak demand, potentially increasing the cost of transportation. The reliability of these services in rural areas can also be variable, and wait times may be longer compared to urban environments. The availability of ride-share services should be verified before relying on them as a primary mode of transportation.

**Medical Transport: Specialized Support**

For individuals requiring specialized medical transportation, several options are available. Ambulance services, such as those provided by Fulton County EMS, are available for emergency situations. These services offer rapid transport to the nearest hospital, ensuring prompt medical attention during asthma exacerbations.

Additionally, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services are available for scheduled appointments. These services provide transportation for individuals who require assistance but do not need an ambulance. Several medical transport brands operate in the area, including local ambulance services and regional NEMT providers. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey to healthcare facilities.

**Healthcare Access: The Asthma Score Perspective**

The "Asthma Score" for 43567 reflects a mixed picture. While Wauseon offers a local healthcare facility, the reliance on personal vehicles for quick access to specialized care or emergency services in larger hospitals in Toledo presents a challenge. Public transportation and ride-share services offer alternative options, but their limitations must be considered.

The limited public transit options and potential for variable ride-share availability can impact the accessibility of healthcare for some residents. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

For individuals moving to Wauseon with asthma, careful planning is essential. Assessing the proximity to healthcare facilities, understanding the available transportation options, and establishing a clear plan for managing asthma exacerbations are critical steps. Proximity to US-20A and the Ohio Turnpike provides access to a broader range of healthcare facilities, but the reliance on personal vehicles or scheduled transportation adds complexity.

Ultimately, the "Asthma Score" for Wauseon is moderate, reflecting a community with accessible healthcare but with some transportation limitations. The ability to drive, or access reliable transportation, is a critical factor in ensuring prompt medical attention. The decision to move to Wauseon should be made with a clear understanding of these transportation challenges and the available resources to mitigate them.