43516, Deshler, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43516, Deshler, Ohio is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.78 percent of residents in 43516 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry County Hospital, Inc with a distance of 16.59 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Deshler, Ohio (ZIP Code 43516)

The heart of a healthy life beats strongest when access to healthcare is readily available. For residents of Deshler, Ohio (ZIP code 43516), this fundamental need is intertwined with the complexities of transportation. Evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach medical appointments, especially those managing hypertension, forms the basis of our "Hypertension Score." This score considers various transportation options, their associated travel times, and the accessibility features that directly impact the ability of residents to receive timely and effective care. Understanding this landscape is crucial for current residents and those considering moving to Deshler, ensuring they can maintain optimal health within their community.

The primary determinant of our score is the drive time to the nearest healthcare facilities. The Deshler area is served by a network of highways and local roads. Driving from the heart of Deshler, residents primarily utilize **U.S. Route 24** and **State Route 18** to access medical services. A significant healthcare provider, Blanchard Valley Health System, has a facility in **Findlay, Ohio**, approximately 25 miles away. This drive, predominantly on US-24 East, typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Smaller clinics and physician offices are available in nearby towns like **Napoleon**, which is about a 15-20 minute drive via US-24 West. These local options offer a more immediate solution for routine checkups and medication refills, vital for managing hypertension. However, the availability of specialized care and advanced diagnostic services often necessitates the longer commute to Findlay. These drive times are crucial for patients needing regular appointments, especially those with uncontrolled hypertension, who require prompt medical attention.

Public transportation options in Deshler are limited. The primary mode of public transit is the **Henry County Transit**, which provides demand-response services. Unfortunately, the routes and schedules are not readily available online. Therefore, it is essential to call the transit agency directly to determine route numbers, schedules, and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features. The absence of a fixed-route bus system significantly impacts the Hypertension Score, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to health conditions.

Ride-sharing services, like **Uber** and **Lyft**, are available in the Deshler area, though their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This variability can pose a challenge for patients with hypertension who need to schedule appointments and medication pickups on short notice. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for individuals with limited financial resources, further impacting their healthcare access.

Medical transportation services are an important consideration for those with mobility limitations. Several companies offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation** are two such providers that might serve the Deshler area. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. However, availability and scheduling require advance planning, which can be challenging for urgent medical needs.

The ADA accessibility of transportation options is a critical factor in the Hypertension Score. For individuals with mobility impairments, the availability of accessible vehicles, ramps, and other accommodations is paramount. The Henry County Transit, as a demand-response service, should offer accessible vehicles. However, the reliability and availability of these services must be evaluated to ensure they meet the needs of all residents.

The "Hypertension Score" also considers the availability of telehealth services. Telehealth, or remote healthcare, has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The ability to consult with a physician remotely, receive medication refills, and monitor blood pressure at home can significantly improve healthcare access, particularly for those with transportation challenges. The availability of telehealth services from local providers and the ease with which residents can access these services contribute positively to the score.

The economic factors associated with transportation also influence the Hypertension Score. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and public transportation fares can all impact a patient's ability to attend medical appointments. For individuals with limited incomes, the financial burden of transportation can lead to delayed or missed appointments, potentially worsening their health outcomes. The availability of transportation assistance programs or subsidies can mitigate these financial barriers and improve healthcare access.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Deshler, Ohio, reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are reasonable, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on private vehicles create challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services provides alternative options, but their reliability and cost can be barriers. The integration of telehealth services and the availability of transportation assistance programs can further improve the score.

For those considering moving to Deshler, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and preferences, considering factors such as their ability to drive, their financial resources, and their reliance on public transportation or other services. A thorough evaluation of these factors will help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being within the community.

In conclusion, the "Hypertension Score" for Deshler, Ohio, highlights the interplay between transportation and healthcare access. While the community offers some advantages, such as relatively short drive times to healthcare facilities, the limitations in public transportation and the reliance on private vehicles create challenges for some residents. Continued efforts to improve public transportation options, promote telehealth services, and provide transportation assistance programs will be essential to improving healthcare access and supporting the health and well-being of all residents, especially those managing hypertension.