43451, Portage, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43451, Portage, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.31 percent of residents in 43451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 4.60 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 43451

The journey to effective hypertension management is often a multifaceted one, encompassing lifestyle adjustments, medication adherence, and regular check-ups. But for residents of ZIP Code 43451, the logistics of *transportation* to *healthcare* providers add another layer of complexity. This analysis delves into the accessibility of medical care for individuals managing hypertension, crafting a “Hypertension Score” that considers the *transportation* landscape and its impact on *healthcare access* within this specific geographical area. Understanding these factors is crucial, especially for those *moving to Portage* and seeking to maintain their health.

ZIP Code 43451 encompasses the village of Portage, Ohio, a rural community where reliance on personal vehicles is paramount. The primary arteries for *transportation* are US-6, running east-west, and OH-281, a north-south thoroughfare. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly around the intersection of US-6 and I-75, a major north-south interstate. Drive times to medical facilities, therefore, become a critical component of the Hypertension Score.

Let's consider the drive times. The nearest significant medical hub is Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, approximately 10-15 minutes away via US-6. This relatively short commute is a positive factor, contributing to a higher score. However, specialized care, such as cardiology or nephrology, might necessitate travel to Toledo, roughly 30-45 minutes away via I-75. This longer duration, especially during inclement weather or rush hour, could negatively impact the score, potentially hindering timely access to specialized consultations or emergency care.

Public *transportation* options within 43451 are limited. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) offers a demand-response service, providing rides to medical appointments, but this requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent situations. There are no fixed-route buses operating within the ZIP code. The absence of readily available public *transportation* significantly lowers the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or prefer not to. The lack of accessibility for those with disabilities, without dedicated ADA-compliant routes, further compounds the challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in response to weather conditions. Reliance on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments could become financially burdensome, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments. The variable nature of ride-sharing contributes a moderate impact on the Hypertension Score.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, are available for individuals requiring assistance. These services are typically reserved for patients with specific medical needs or those unable to travel independently. The cost of these services is a significant factor, often not fully covered by insurance, and can be a barrier to *healthcare access*, especially for those with limited financial resources.

The Hypertension Score also considers the proximity of pharmacies to the residents. Access to medication refills is crucial for hypertension management. Portage has a local pharmacy and several national chain pharmacies are located within a short drive, primarily in Bowling Green. This proximity to pharmacies is a positive factor, ensuring convenient access to prescribed medications.

The availability of telehealth services further influences the score. Many healthcare providers now offer virtual consultations, reducing the need for in-person visits for certain types of appointments. The ability to access telehealth services, provided the patient has reliable internet access, can improve the Hypertension Score by mitigating *transportation* barriers.

The overall Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 43451 is moderate. While the proximity to Wood County Hospital and local pharmacies is favorable, the limitations in public *transportation*, the potential cost and unreliability of ride-sharing, and the longer travel times to specialized care centers in Toledo create challenges. This score emphasizes the importance of personal vehicle ownership for residents and highlights the need for proactive planning when managing hypertension.

For individuals *moving to Portage* with hypertension, the following recommendations are pertinent. Establish a relationship with a primary care physician in the area and discuss *transportation* options for routine check-ups and specialist referrals. Explore the availability of telehealth services from your healthcare provider. Consider the financial implications of relying on ride-sharing services or medical *transportation* and budget accordingly.

The Hypertension Score is not static. It can fluctuate based on individual circumstances, such as health status, financial resources, and access to support networks. The score serves as a valuable tool for understanding the *transportation* landscape and its impact on *healthcare access* in 43451, empowering residents to navigate the complexities of hypertension management effectively.

Furthermore, the score can be enhanced through community initiatives. Increased awareness of the WCCOA’s demand-response service, advocacy for expanded public *transportation* options, and promotion of telehealth services can positively influence the score. Collaborations between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government can improve *healthcare access* and support the well-being of individuals managing hypertension in Portage.

In conclusion, the Hypertension Score for ZIP Code 43451 highlights the critical link between *transportation* and *healthcare access*. By understanding the challenges and opportunities within this rural community, residents can proactively manage their health and ensure they receive the care they need. This is particularly important for those *moving to Portage*, who should carefully consider the *transportation* infrastructure and its impact on their ability to manage their hypertension effectively.