43406, Bradner, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43406, Bradner, Ohio is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.90 percent of residents in 43406 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 11.87 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Bradner, Ohio (ZIP Code 43406)

The quiet village of Bradner, Ohio, nestled within ZIP code 43406, offers a tranquil escape for many. However, for residents managing hypertension, the serenity of rural living can be complicated by the realities of healthcare access. This write-up explores the "Hypertension Score" – a hypothetical metric assessing the ease with which individuals in Bradner can access necessary medical care, specifically focusing on transportation options and their impact on managing high blood pressure. This is crucial for those considering moving to Bradner, ensuring they can effectively manage their health.

The Hypertension Score considers factors such as drive times to medical facilities, public transportation availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options. A high score indicates excellent access, while a low score signals potential challenges. This score is not a definitive judgment but rather a guide for understanding the practicalities of healthcare access in this specific geographic area.

**The Geography of Healthcare Access:**

Bradner is primarily surrounded by farmland, with its closest neighboring towns offering the bulk of essential services. The primary healthcare hubs for Bradner residents are located in Bowling Green, approximately 15 miles to the southwest, and Northwood, about 20 miles to the northeast. These distances, while seemingly manageable, can become significant barriers for individuals with hypertension, who often require regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential emergency care.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Wellness:**

Driving remains the dominant mode of transportation in Bradner. The primary routes connecting Bradner to Bowling Green and Northwood are crucial for healthcare access. Traveling to Bowling Green involves navigating State Route 23, a two-lane highway that can experience traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Drive times can vary from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Reaching Northwood involves a journey on State Route 199, a more direct route but still subject to seasonal weather challenges. Drive times to Northwood generally range from 25 to 40 minutes. These drive times, though seemingly short, become critical for those experiencing hypertensive crises, emphasizing the importance of readily available and reliable transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Solution:**

Public transportation options in and around Bradner are limited. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) provides demand-response transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities within Wood County. These services, while valuable, often require advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. The WCCOA offers door-to-door service, essential for those with mobility limitations, and is ADA-compliant.

Regular public bus routes, offering more frequent and flexible service, are not available directly in Bradner. Residents would need to travel to Bowling Green to access the Bowling Green Transit System (BGTS), which offers limited routes within the city. This adds additional travel time and complexity to accessing healthcare. The BGTS buses are ADA-accessible, but the initial travel to Bowling Green remains a hurdle.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving, particularly for those unable to drive themselves. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially in rural areas. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could also add to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Specialized medical transport services, such as those offered by ProMedica Transportation and other private companies, are available. These services provide transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those requiring wheelchair-accessible vehicles or stretcher transport. While these services offer a valuable lifeline, they often come with higher costs and require advance booking.

**The Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment:**

Considering the various transportation options, the Hypertension Score for Bradner, Ohio (43406) is moderate. While driving offers the most direct access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays pose challenges. Public transportation options are limited, and ride-sharing services may not always be readily available. Specialized medical transport provides a safety net but comes with added costs.

For individuals with hypertension, the key is proactive planning. Establishing a relationship with a local healthcare provider, understanding the availability of transportation options, and having a contingency plan for emergencies are essential.

**Implications for Moving to Bradner:**

For those considering moving to Bradner, understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access is crucial. Individuals with hypertension should carefully assess their ability to manage their condition within the existing transportation framework. This includes considering the accessibility of their chosen healthcare provider, the availability of transportation for routine appointments and emergencies, and the potential costs associated with various transportation options.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape:**

Living in Bradner offers a peaceful lifestyle, but it requires careful consideration of healthcare access. The Hypertension Score, a composite of various transportation factors, highlights the need for proactive planning and a clear understanding of the available resources. While challenges exist, with careful planning and a commitment to healthcare management, individuals with hypertension can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape in Bradner and maintain their well-being. The decision to move to Bradner should include a thorough assessment of these factors, ensuring a smooth transition and continued access to vital healthcare services.