43467, West Millgrove, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43467, West Millgrove, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.76 percent of residents in 43467 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 19.74 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in West Millgrove (ZIP Code 43467)

The heart of this analysis beats with a singular purpose: to assess the accessibility of healthcare for residents of West Millgrove, Ohio, ZIP code 43467, specifically focusing on the challenges and opportunities surrounding hypertension management. Our "Hypertension Score" considers the multifaceted landscape of transportation options, from the convenience of personal vehicles to the complexities of public transit, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access in this rural community. This is especially pertinent for individuals considering moving to West Millgrove, as understanding the ease of reaching medical care is paramount.

West Millgrove, a small village nestled within Wood County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. Its rural character translates to limited public transit options, making personal vehicle ownership almost a necessity. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in surrounding towns and cities, necessitating travel. This distance, coupled with potential traffic and weather conditions, can significantly impact the ability of residents to regularly access healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension.

**The Road to Care: Driving Times and Routes**

The primary arteries connecting West Millgrove to healthcare are the roadways. Traveling by car is the most common method of transportation. The nearest significant medical center is Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, approximately a 20-minute drive via Ohio State Route 235 South and then Ohio State Route 64 East. This route, while generally straightforward, can be affected by seasonal weather, especially during winter months, potentially extending travel times and increasing the risk of delays.

For specialized care, residents often travel to Toledo, a city with a wider range of medical facilities. Reaching Toledo typically involves a drive of around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. The primary route involves taking Ohio State Route 235 North to U.S. Route 6, then onto Interstate 75 North. This route, while offering faster travel speeds, can be prone to congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours, adding to the stress and time commitment of healthcare appointments.

Other routes involve taking local roads, such as Township Road 16, Township Road 15, and Township Road 14. While these roads can offer scenic drives, they are less direct and may not be suitable for emergency situations. The condition of these local roads also varies, particularly after inclement weather.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in West Millgrove are extremely limited. Wood County offers a public transit system, but its routes and frequency are not designed to serve the specific needs of residents requiring regular medical appointments. The service is primarily focused on providing transportation within Wood County, and its reach to West Millgrove is often restricted.

The Wood County Transit system may offer demand-response services, requiring advance booking and subject to availability. These services might be the only option for individuals without access to a personal vehicle, but they may not be ideal for time-sensitive appointments or emergencies. The lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those unable to drive.

ADA accessibility, while mandated for public transit, may still present challenges in rural areas. Ensuring the availability of accessible vehicles and trained personnel is crucial for individuals with disabilities. The limited frequency of services and the need for advance booking can also pose difficulties for those with mobility issues or other health concerns.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Toledo area, but their presence in West Millgrove is less consistent. Availability can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not always feasible, especially in a rural setting.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance services or specialized medical transport companies, are available for individuals requiring assistance. These services are typically reserved for urgent or non-emergency medical transportation. However, they may not be a practical solution for routine check-ups or chronic disease management.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with limited incomes or those requiring frequent appointments. This adds another layer of complexity to the issue of healthcare access.

**The Hypertension Score: Assessing the Impact**

The "Hypertension Score" for West Millgrove, 43467, reflects the combined impact of these transportation factors on healthcare access. The score would be negatively impacted by the limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for travel delays. The score would be slightly offset by the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, although these are not always reliable or affordable.

The score would also consider the proximity of essential services like pharmacies, which are crucial for managing hypertension. The availability of local pharmacies and their operating hours would be factored in.

**Implications for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For residents of West Millgrove managing hypertension, the challenges are clear. Regular access to medical care, including physician appointments, medication refills, and lifestyle counseling, can be difficult. This can lead to delayed care, poorer health outcomes, and increased healthcare costs.

For individuals considering moving to West Millgrove, a thorough assessment of transportation options and healthcare access is essential. The availability of reliable transportation is a critical factor in ensuring access to necessary medical services. Potential residents should carefully evaluate their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, or the feasibility of utilizing ride-sharing or medical transport services.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Improving healthcare access in West Millgrove requires a multifaceted approach. Expanding public transit options, even with limited resources, could significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted rates or subsidized services could also be beneficial. Encouraging the use of telehealth services, where appropriate, can reduce the need for in-person visits.

Investing in community health initiatives, such as educational programs on hypertension management and promoting healthy lifestyles, is crucial. The goal is to empower residents to proactively manage their health and navigate the challenges of accessing healthcare in a rural environment.

The "Hypertension Score" serves as a critical indicator of the challenges and opportunities surrounding healthcare access in West Millgrove. By understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare, we can work towards creating a healthier community for all residents. The ability to reach healthcare, for those moving to West Millgrove, is a crucial factor in making the decision to live there.