43465, Walbridge, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43465, Walbridge, Ohio is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.69 percent of residents in 43465 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.33 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 25.09 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Walbridge, Ohio (ZIP Code 43465)

The shadow of hypertension, often called high blood pressure, looms over many communities, demanding proactive management. In the context of a move to Walbridge, Ohio (ZIP Code 43465), understanding the ease of **transportation** to **healthcare** facilities becomes paramount. This write-up delves into the practicalities of accessing care, assigning a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the challenges and opportunities residents face in managing their health.

Our score will consider factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and the presence of medical **transportation** services. A higher score indicates greater ease of access, while a lower score highlights potential hurdles.

The heart of our analysis begins with the roadways. Walbridge, a village in Wood County, enjoys a strategic location, offering relatively straightforward access to healthcare. Primary routes include Interstate 75 (I-75), the major north-south artery, and U.S. Route 20, a vital east-west corridor. Local roads like Main Street and Wales Road provide access to essential services within the village.

Driving times to healthcare providers are generally favorable. The closest hospitals, such as Mercy Health – St. Charles Hospital in Oregon, Ohio, are accessible via I-75 and typically involve a drive of under 15 minutes, traffic permitting. Other options, including ProMedica Toledo Hospital and the University of Toledo Medical Center, are reachable within 20-30 minutes, again contingent on traffic flow.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge for those without them. Public **transportation** options exist, but their coverage is limited. The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides bus service to the area. Route 20, for example, offers service along Woodville Road, connecting Walbridge to Toledo. The service operates on a limited schedule, potentially impacting the convenience of appointments.

TARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and designated seating, making them accessible to individuals with mobility impairments. However, the frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, might pose a barrier for those needing regular medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area. These offer an alternative to driving or relying on public transit, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. The availability and cost of ride-shares can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day, and could represent a significant expense for routine healthcare visits.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by private companies, can be crucial for individuals who require specialized assistance. These services often provide door-to-door service, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, their availability and cost vary, and they may require advance booking.

The presence of local pharmacies within Walbridge, such as those located along Main Street, enhances **healthcare access**. Residents can conveniently fill prescriptions and consult with pharmacists, reducing the need for frequent trips to larger facilities.

Considering all these factors, we can now formulate the Hypertension Score for Walbridge, Ohio (ZIP Code 43465). The relatively short drive times to hospitals and the availability of ride-sharing services are positive factors. However, the limited public transit options and the potential cost of ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services present challenges, especially for those with mobility limitations or limited financial resources.

Therefore, based on the current landscape of **transportation** options and **healthcare access**, the Hypertension Score for Walbridge, Ohio (ZIP Code 43465) is a 7 out of 10. This indicates that while healthcare is reasonably accessible, improvements in public transit frequency and the availability of affordable medical **transportation** services would significantly enhance the score.

For individuals considering **moving to Walbridge**, this score provides a crucial insight into the practicalities of managing their health. Careful consideration of individual needs and circumstances is essential. Those who rely on public transit should familiarize themselves with TARTA schedules and routes. Individuals who cannot drive should research ride-sharing options and medical **transportation** services.

Furthermore, residents should explore local pharmacies and healthcare providers to establish a strong support system. Proactive planning and resourcefulness are key to navigating the healthcare landscape and effectively managing hypertension. The village's proximity to larger cities provides ample access to specialized care.

In conclusion, while Walbridge offers a generally accessible environment for healthcare, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services necessitate careful planning and resourcefulness, especially for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Residents should actively seek out the most convenient and affordable means of accessing care to maintain their well-being. The village’s location, with its convenient highway access, offers a solid foundation for healthcare access, but further improvements in public **transportation** would significantly improve the Hypertension Score.