45872, North Baltimore, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 45872, North Baltimore, Ohio is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.28 percent of residents in 45872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 13.39 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in North Baltimore (ZIP Code 45872)

The air hangs heavy with the promise of rural tranquility in North Baltimore, Ohio (ZIP code 45872). Yet, for individuals managing asthma, the serene landscape presents a complex challenge: healthcare access. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, crafting an "Asthma Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can reach essential medical care. The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for those considering moving to North Baltimore, as reliable transportation is paramount for managing asthma effectively.

The foundation of healthcare access in 45872 rests on the automobile. Driving is the primary mode of transportation. Residents typically navigate the area via US-68, a vital artery connecting North Baltimore to surrounding communities. State Route 18 also provides access, particularly for east-west travel. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially impacting drive times.

Reaching Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, a crucial healthcare destination, involves a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes via I-75 North. This interstate offers a relatively direct route, but traffic fluctuations can extend travel times, especially during rush hour or inclement weather. For those needing specialized care, Toledo, approximately an hour's drive north via I-75, offers a wider array of medical facilities.

The Asthma Score acknowledges the importance of understanding the limitations of relying solely on personal vehicles. This is particularly relevant for individuals without a car, those unable to drive, or those facing financial constraints.

Public transportation options in 45872 are limited. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) provides demand-response transportation services. This service, while offering a lifeline for some, requires advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. The WCCOA's vehicles may or may not have ADA features; confirm this during booking. Public transit is not a robust component of the healthcare access equation in this area.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are present in the region, but their availability in North Baltimore is variable. Demand fluctuates, and wait times can be significant, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for scheduled appointments or urgent care could be problematic. The Asthma Score must reflect this uncertainty.

Medical transport services are available, but their cost and availability are critical factors. These services, including those offered by private ambulance companies, are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or utilize ride-sharing. However, the financial burden of medical transport can be substantial, impacting healthcare access.

The Asthma Score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The proximity to primary care physicians, specialists, and emergency services.
* **Public Transportation:** The reliability, accessibility, and frequency of public transit options.
* **Ride-Sharing:** The availability, cost, and wait times for ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and reliability of medical transport services.

The Asthma Score is not a simple numerical rating; it is a holistic assessment. It recognizes that healthcare access is multifaceted and that transportation is a crucial determinant of health outcomes, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions like asthma.

For residents of 45872, the Asthma Score is moderate. While the drive times to essential medical facilities are generally reasonable, the limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of car ownership. Those considering moving to North Baltimore should carefully assess their transportation options.

The Asthma Score is not a static measure. It can be improved through community initiatives. Enhancing public transportation options, advocating for increased ride-sharing availability, and supporting affordable medical transport services are crucial steps. These efforts can significantly improve healthcare access and enhance the quality of life for residents with asthma.

The availability of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move to North Baltimore. The Asthma Score provides a valuable framework for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. By acknowledging the challenges and opportunities, residents, healthcare providers, and community leaders can work together to create a healthier and more accessible environment for everyone.

The score reflects the reality of rural healthcare access, where personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. While drive times to essential services are manageable, the limitations of public transit and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present challenges. The Asthma Score is a call to action, highlighting the need for community-driven solutions to improve healthcare access in North Baltimore.

The Asthma Score is a dynamic tool, reflecting the ongoing evolution of healthcare access. It emphasizes the importance of comprehensive planning and collaboration. By understanding the transportation landscape, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Those moving to North Baltimore should carefully assess their transportation options and consider the potential impact on their ability to manage their asthma effectively.