44817, Bloomdale, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 44817, Bloomdale, Ohio is 45 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.51 percent of residents in 44817 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 13.54 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Bloomdale (ZIP Code 44817)

Bloomdale, Ohio (ZIP Code 44817), a charming village nestled in Wood County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, for individuals managing asthma, the ease of accessing healthcare is a crucial consideration. This "Asthma Score" write-up assesses the transportation landscape, evaluating the accessibility of medical resources, particularly for those seeking to move to Bloomdale or currently residing there. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation providers, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access.

The primary concern for asthma sufferers is timely access to medical care, especially during exacerbations. Bloomdale's location necessitates understanding the transportation infrastructure that connects residents to hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. The ability to quickly reach a healthcare provider can significantly impact the management and outcomes of asthma.

**Roadways and Drive Times:**

The most common mode of transportation in and around Bloomdale is by personal vehicle. The proximity to major roadways dictates the accessibility of healthcare facilities. The primary artery connecting Bloomdale to larger towns is **State Route 18**. Heading east on SR-18 leads to Bowling Green, the county seat, and offers a direct route to Wood County Hospital. The drive time to Wood County Hospital is approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to Toledo, approximately 30-40 minutes away, depending on traffic conditions. The most direct route involves taking **Interstate 75 (I-75)** north from SR-18. This highway provides access to a wider range of hospitals and specialists in the Toledo area, including ProMedica Toledo Hospital and Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center. The I-75 corridor can experience heavy traffic during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Alternatively, for those seeking care in Findlay, Ohio, approximately 30 minutes south, **State Route 235** offers a less congested option. This route leads to Blanchard Valley Hospital, providing another choice for healthcare services.

The drive times, while generally manageable, highlight the dependence on personal vehicles. This reliance necessitates reliable transportation and the ability to drive or have access to someone who can. The absence of readily available public transportation significantly impacts healthcare access for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle.

**Public Transportation: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Bloomdale and the surrounding area are limited. Wood County does not have a comprehensive public transit system that extends to Bloomdale. The Wood County Senior Center, located in Bowling Green, offers limited transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, but these services are primarily focused on providing transportation to medical appointments within the county.

The lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals with asthma who may not be able to drive or who may experience sudden asthma attacks that require immediate medical attention. The absence of regular bus routes or other public transportation options restricts healthcare access, particularly for those with limited mobility or financial resources.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bowling Green and Toledo areas, but their availability in Bloomdale is less consistent. The frequency of ride-sharing services may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for urgent medical needs can be risky due to potential delays in response times.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized option for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. Several medical transportation providers operate in the region, including:

* **CareRide:** This company provides non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
* **First Transit:** This provider offers transportation services for individuals with disabilities and seniors, often contracted by Medicaid or other insurance providers.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** While primarily focused on emergency medical services, some local ambulance services may offer non-emergency transportation for scheduled appointments.

These medical transportation services offer a more reliable option than ride-sharing, especially for those with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. However, availability and cost can vary, and it's crucial to pre-arrange transportation whenever possible.

**Healthcare Access: A Synthesis:**

Bloomdale's healthcare access presents a mixed picture. While the drive times to nearby hospitals and clinics are generally reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options pose significant challenges for individuals with asthma.

The availability of ride-sharing services is inconsistent, and the frequency of medical transportation providers may be limited. This underscores the importance of planning and preparation for individuals with asthma. Establishing a clear plan for transportation to medical appointments, including emergency situations, is paramount.

**Asthma Score Summary:**

The "Asthma Score" for Bloomdale, considering transportation and healthcare access, is moderate. The proximity to healthcare facilities is a positive factor, but the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create potential barriers. For individuals considering moving to Bloomdale, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and the availability of reliable transportation options is crucial.

The absence of readily available public transportation options and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services necessitate careful planning. Individuals with asthma should prioritize establishing relationships with local medical transportation providers and ensuring they have a reliable backup plan for emergency situations.

The overall "Asthma Score" reflects the need for proactive planning and reliance on personal vehicles, with medical transportation options offering a valuable, albeit sometimes limited, resource. Understanding these transportation dynamics is essential for managing asthma effectively and ensuring timely access to healthcare in Bloomdale.