43460, Rossford, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43460, Rossford, Ohio is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.24 percent of residents in 43460 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.49 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 28.46 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Rossford, Ohio (ZIP Code 43460)

The journey to managing hypertension in Rossford, Ohio (ZIP code 43460) involves a complex interplay of factors, with transportation playing a pivotal role in healthcare access. This write-up explores the transportation landscape, analyzing drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability to generate a "Hypertension Score" – a composite metric reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential healthcare services. The score will serve as a valuable tool for individuals considering moving to Rossford and for current residents seeking to optimize their healthcare journey.

The prevalence of hypertension, often called high blood pressure, demands proactive management. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle adjustments are crucial. However, these efforts are significantly hampered if transportation barriers impede access to healthcare providers. Our analysis delves into the specific transportation options available to residents of 43460, considering their impact on timely and consistent healthcare delivery.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries of Rossford**

Rossford's geographical layout and its proximity to larger metropolitan areas like Toledo significantly influence drive times to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries facilitating healthcare access are the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90), providing a direct route to hospitals and clinics located further afield. The journey to the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC), a major regional healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes via the Ohio Turnpike or a slightly longer route using US-24 and then I-75.

Access to ProMedica Toledo Hospital, another prominent healthcare institution, requires a similar travel time, often utilizing I-75. The presence of these major highways, however, doesn’t guarantee seamless access. Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend drive times, particularly on I-75, which experiences heavy commuter traffic.

Local roads, such as Lime City Road, Buck Road, and Maumee-Western Road, offer alternative routes to nearby clinics and primary care physicians. However, these roads are often subject to stoplights and slower speed limits, potentially adding to travel time.

The availability of parking at healthcare facilities is another consideration. While most hospitals and clinics offer parking, the cost and availability can impact the overall convenience of accessing care. The Hypertension Score will factor in both the average drive times and the potential parking challenges.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Wheels of the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA)**

The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides public transportation services within the Rossford area. While TARTA’s coverage is present, it is limited, and the frequency of routes can be a significant consideration for those relying on public transit. Several routes serve the Rossford area, including Route 20, which provides access to downtown Toledo and connections to other routes. Route 24, which operates along Woodville Road, offers another option for accessing healthcare facilities.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial factor. TARTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can present challenges for those with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent medical appointments. The Hypertension Score will consider the accessibility features of TARTA services and the frequency of routes serving healthcare destinations.

The journey time on public transit is typically longer than driving, with potential wait times between connections. This factor is particularly relevant for individuals with hypertension, as timely access to medication refills and routine check-ups is essential for managing their condition.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Navigating the Digital Landscape**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option. Their availability in Rossford provides on-demand access to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. The Hypertension Score will consider the cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing relative to other transportation options.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, offer specialized assistance. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Brands like CareRide and MedRide are available in the Toledo area. While these services offer convenience and specialized care, they can be more expensive than other options. The Hypertension Score will assess the availability and cost of medical transportation services.

**Formulating the Hypertension Score: A Composite Assessment**

The Hypertension Score for Rossford (ZIP code 43460) will be a composite metric derived from the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Average travel times to key healthcare facilities (UTMC, ProMedica Toledo Hospital, and local clinics) during peak and off-peak hours.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Frequency of TARTA routes, accessibility features (ADA compliance), and travel times.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability and Cost:** Availability of Uber and Lyft services and the estimated cost of rides to healthcare destinations.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** Availability and cost of medical transportation services.
* **Parking Availability and Cost:** Assessment of parking facilities at major healthcare providers.

The score will be presented on a scale, with higher scores indicating greater ease of access to healthcare and lower scores reflecting greater transportation challenges.

**Implications for Moving to Rossford and Healthcare Management**

The Hypertension Score will be a valuable tool for individuals considering moving to Rossford. It will provide insights into the accessibility of healthcare services, allowing prospective residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. For current residents, the score will highlight the most efficient and cost-effective transportation options for managing their hypertension.

The analysis underscores the importance of proactive planning and transportation awareness for individuals with hypertension. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing services. They should also consider the potential impact of traffic congestion and parking challenges on their healthcare access.

The Hypertension Score will be a dynamic metric, subject to change based on evolving transportation infrastructure and healthcare service availability. Regular updates will ensure that the score remains a relevant and reliable resource for residents of Rossford (ZIP code 43460). By understanding the transportation landscape, residents can proactively manage their hypertension and improve their overall healthcare experience. The goal is to foster a community where healthcare access is not a barrier, but a readily available resource for all.