43463, Stony Ridge, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43463, Stony Ridge, Ohio is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.34 percent of residents in 43463 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.82 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 22.63 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stony Ridge (43463)

The quiet charm of Stony Ridge, Ohio, nestled within ZIP code 43463, offers a serene escape. Yet, for residents managing hypertension, the ease of accessing vital healthcare becomes a crucial consideration. This write-up explores the intricate landscape of transportation options available, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment to aid individuals in understanding their healthcare access within this rural community. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities that await.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Stony Ridge is, undeniably, the automobile. The ability to drive oneself or rely on a caregiver significantly impacts the timeliness and convenience of medical appointments. For residents, the primary route to healthcare facilities often involves navigating the network of highways and roads. A journey to Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, the closest major hospital, typically entails a drive of approximately 20-25 minutes. This route primarily utilizes **State Route 199** south, seamlessly merging onto **US-6** west.

Conversely, reaching ProMedica Toledo Hospital, a more comprehensive facility, necessitates a longer commute, roughly 40-45 minutes. This trip involves navigating **State Route 199** north, connecting to **I-75** north. The reliability of these routes is generally high, though weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can introduce delays. The condition of the roads is typically well-maintained, but the rural nature of the area means that traffic congestion is rarely a significant factor.

Public transportation options within 43463 are limited, presenting a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) offers a demand-response service, providing transportation to medical appointments for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while valuable, requires advance booking and may have limited availability, particularly during peak hours. Information on specific routes, schedules, and ADA accessibility features can be obtained directly from WCCOA.

The absence of a robust public transit system highlights the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential challenges for those unable to drive. The "Hypertension Score" for public transit in Stony Ridge would, therefore, be relatively low, emphasizing the importance of alternative transportation strategies.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have made inroads into many areas, but their availability in rural communities like Stony Ridge is often inconsistent. While occasional ride-sharing options may exist, relying on them for regular medical appointments is risky. The unpredictability of availability, coupled with potentially higher fares, makes this a less dependable transportation solution.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, offer a more specialized approach. Companies like Care Ambulance Service and ProMedica Transportation Services operate in the region, providing stretcher and wheelchair transportation. These services are typically more expensive than ride-sharing and require prior arrangements. However, they offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot safely travel by other means.

The "Hypertension Score" for medical transport would be higher than public transit, but lower than personal vehicle access, due to the cost and the need for pre-planning.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in Stony Ridge (43463) is influenced by several factors. The primary determinant is the availability of reliable personal transportation. Individuals with access to a car, or with caregivers willing to provide transportation, enjoy the greatest ease of healthcare access. The drive times to nearby hospitals and clinics are manageable, although longer commutes to specialized facilities in Toledo are a consideration.

For those without personal vehicles, the "Hypertension Score" decreases significantly. The limited public transit options, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport create significant barriers. These individuals must carefully consider their transportation needs when planning medical care.

The "Hypertension Score" is also influenced by the location of healthcare facilities. While Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green offers essential services, the proximity to larger hospitals in Toledo provides access to a wider range of specialists and advanced treatments. The ability to travel to these facilities, whether by personal vehicle or alternative means, is crucial.

For individuals considering moving to Stony Ridge, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is paramount. Those with hypertension, or any chronic condition requiring regular medical care, should prioritize access to reliable transportation. This may involve ensuring access to a personal vehicle, identifying potential caregivers, or researching the availability of medical transport services.

The availability of local pharmacies and the proximity of primary care physicians also play a vital role in healthcare access. Having convenient access to medication refills and routine check-ups can significantly improve the management of hypertension.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in Stony Ridge (43463) is a nuanced assessment. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the lack of robust public transportation presents a challenge for those without personal vehicles. Careful consideration of transportation options, including drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, is essential for residents managing hypertension. Understanding these factors empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensures they can access the vital services they need.