45875, Ottawa, Ohio Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 45875, Ottawa, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.65 percent of residents in 45875 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.29 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Hospital with a distance of 12.25 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Ottawa, Ohio (ZIP Code 45875)

Relocating to Ottawa, Ohio (ZIP Code 45875) presents a unique set of considerations for individuals managing asthma. This write-up assesses the "Asthma Score" for healthcare access, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely medical care. We’ll explore drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those seeking to make Ottawa their home.

The Asthma Score, in this context, reflects the ease and reliability of reaching healthcare providers, particularly during an asthma exacerbation. Factors like travel time, mode of transportation, and availability of services are crucial. A high score indicates excellent access, while a low score suggests potential difficulties. We’ll evaluate the current landscape, providing insights for individuals considering moving to Ottawa, a charming town nestled in Putnam County.

**Drive Times: The Road to Relief**

The primary mode of transportation in Ottawa is the personal vehicle. Accessing healthcare in this area heavily relies on driving. The nearest hospital, Mercy Health – Putnam County Hospital, is conveniently located within Ottawa. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger cities.

Driving to Mercy Health – Putnam County Hospital is generally straightforward. From most locations within the 45875 ZIP code, the drive is typically less than 10 minutes. This proximity is a significant advantage, especially during an asthma emergency. The hospital offers a comprehensive emergency department, crucial for immediate care.

For specialized pulmonology services, patients may need to travel to Lima, Ohio, approximately 20 miles away. This journey usually takes around 30 minutes via US-224 East and I-75 North. While manageable, this drive time increases the potential for stress during an asthma flare-up. The condition can worsen with anxiety.

Further specialized care, such as allergy specialists or advanced pulmonary centers, might require travel to Toledo, Ohio, approximately 80 miles away. This trip, primarily via US-224 East and I-75 North, can take upwards of 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and preparation, especially for those with severe asthma.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Ottawa are limited. The Putnam County Council on Aging (PCCOA) provides demand-response transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While this service can be used for medical appointments, it requires advance booking and may not be readily available during an acute asthma episode.

The PCCOA vehicles are designed with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts. However, the service operates within Putnam County and may not extend to healthcare providers in Lima or Toledo. Information about the PCCOA can be found through the Putnam County website.

The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. This limitation impacts healthcare access, particularly for those with mobility issues or those who cannot drive due to the severity of their asthma.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Ottawa, although their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Securing a ride, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, could be challenging. The reliability of ride-sharing is a crucial factor in the Asthma Score.

Medical transport services, such as ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), provide a vital link to healthcare. The Putnam County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) offers ambulance services for emergencies. These services are equipped to handle acute asthma exacerbations and provide immediate medical attention.

NEMT services are available for non-emergency medical appointments. These services often provide transportation for individuals who require assistance with mobility or those who cannot drive. Several NEMT providers operate in the region, including local companies and national brands.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The Asthma Score for Ottawa (45875) is moderate. The proximity of Mercy Health – Putnam County Hospital provides a significant advantage for immediate care. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create potential challenges for accessing specialized care in Lima and Toledo.

The availability of ride-sharing services offers an alternative, although their reliability remains a concern. Medical transport services, including ambulance and NEMT, provide a crucial safety net, particularly during emergencies.

**Moving to Ottawa: Considerations for Asthma Management**

Individuals with asthma considering moving to Ottawa should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and transportation options. The following factors are essential:

* **Proximity to Emergency Care:** The close proximity of Mercy Health – Putnam County Hospital is a major advantage.
* **Access to Specialists:** Assess the travel time and transportation options for accessing pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists.
* **Reliability of Transportation:** Consider the availability and reliability of personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, and medical transport.
* **Emergency Preparedness:** Develop an asthma action plan and ensure easy access to emergency medications.
* **Support Network:** Build a support network of family, friends, or neighbors who can assist with transportation during emergencies.

Moving to Ottawa offers a peaceful lifestyle with a strong sense of community. However, individuals with asthma must proactively address their healthcare needs by carefully considering transportation options and planning for potential challenges. This proactive approach will help ensure that healthcare access remains a priority. The Asthma Score, while moderate, can be improved through careful planning and utilization of available resources.