45866, Montezuma, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 45866, Montezuma, Ohio is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

97.62 percent of residents in 45866 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grand Lake Health System with a distance of 10.07 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Montezuma, OH (ZIP Code 45866)

The crisp, rural air of Montezuma, Ohio, nestled within ZIP code 45866, offers a certain tranquility. However, for individuals managing asthma, the serenity of this small community must be weighed against the realities of healthcare access. Understanding the complexities of transportation options is crucial for residents, and those considering moving to Montezuma, to effectively manage their condition. This "Asthma Score" write-up analyzes the available transportation infrastructure, evaluating its impact on healthcare access for asthma sufferers.

The primary concern for residents with asthma in Montezuma revolves around timely access to medical care during exacerbations. This necessitates a thorough understanding of drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly those equipped to handle acute asthma episodes. The nearest hospitals with emergency departments are located in Celina, Ohio, and in St. Marys, Ohio. Driving to Mercer Health in Coldwater, Ohio, is also a viable option.

Navigating these routes requires familiarity with the local road network. From Montezuma, the most direct route to Mercer Health in Coldwater is generally via **State Route 118** south. The drive time is approximately 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This is a relatively manageable commute for routine check-ups or scheduled appointments.

Traveling to Celina, Ohio, requires a slightly longer journey. The most common route involves heading north on **State Route 118** and then east on **State Route 29**. The drive time to Mercer County Community Hospital in Celina typically ranges from 20 to 25 minutes. This increased travel time could pose a challenge during an asthma flare-up.

Reaching Joint Township District Memorial Hospital in St. Marys, Ohio, involves a journey of similar length. The most direct route from Montezuma is south on **State Route 118**, then east on **State Route 274**. The drive time is comparable to the Celina route, approximately 20 to 25 minutes.

The reliability of these drive times is subject to change due to weather conditions, especially during winter months. Snow and ice can significantly increase travel times and potentially hinder access to emergency care. Residents with asthma should always factor in potential delays and plan accordingly, perhaps by keeping an emergency inhaler readily accessible in their vehicle.

Public transportation options in Montezuma are extremely limited. Mercer County does not have a fixed-route public transit system. This presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. The lack of public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative methods, such as family members, friends, or ride-sharing services.

While a formal public transit system is absent, the county does offer a demand-response service, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, coordinated through the Mercer County Transit, requires advance booking and may not be readily available during an asthma emergency. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of this service is crucial, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can also access healthcare. However, the limited operating hours and the need for pre-arrangement can be a major obstacle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may be available in the area, but their reliability and availability are not guaranteed. The rural nature of Montezuma means that ride-sharing services may be less readily accessible compared to urban areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather could also add to the financial burden of accessing healthcare. The availability of these services should be verified in advance, and contingency plans should be in place.

Medical transportation services provide a specialized solution for non-emergency medical transport. Companies like First Call Medical Transportation or Medicar offer services that can be pre-arranged for appointments or specialized needs. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing but offer the advantage of trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to handle medical needs.

For individuals considering moving to Montezuma, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is paramount. The limited public transit options and the reliance on private vehicles or ride-sharing services require careful consideration. Prospective residents with asthma should evaluate their ability to drive, or their access to reliable transportation.

Furthermore, the financial implications of healthcare access should be considered. The cost of ride-sharing services, medical transportation, or even the increased fuel costs associated with driving to appointments can add to the financial burden of managing asthma.

The "Asthma Score" for Montezuma, Ohio, reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access for individuals with asthma. While the drive times to nearby hospitals are relatively manageable, the lack of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers. The need for pre-planning, reliance on private vehicles, and the potential financial burden of transportation all contribute to a lower "Asthma Score."

For residents with asthma, or those considering moving to Montezuma, a proactive approach to healthcare access is essential. This includes developing a comprehensive asthma action plan, maintaining a readily accessible supply of medication, and establishing a reliable transportation network. Understanding the limitations of the local transportation infrastructure is crucial for ensuring timely access to medical care and effectively managing asthma in this rural community.