43517, Edgerton, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43517, Edgerton, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.44 percent of residents in 43517 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.75 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Edgerton, Ohio (ZIP Code 43517)

Edgerton, Ohio, a charming village nestled in Williams County, presents a unique landscape for residents managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation infrastructure available to individuals in ZIP code 43517, assessing its impact on healthcare access, particularly for those requiring regular medical attention for hypertension. We'll explore drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, painting a comprehensive picture for those considering a move to Edgerton or seeking to understand the healthcare accessibility within the community.

The ability to efficiently and reliably access healthcare is paramount for individuals managing hypertension. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist appointments are crucial components of effective treatment. The availability of diverse transportation options significantly impacts the ability of residents to adhere to their prescribed medical regimens. This analysis considers the various transportation modalities available in Edgerton, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses in the context of healthcare access.

**Driving Times and Roadways: The Cornerstone of Commute**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this method hinges on the road network and the distances to healthcare facilities. Within Edgerton, the most direct route to larger medical centers often involves navigating US Route 6, a major east-west thoroughfare. This highway offers relatively smooth travel, but traffic can become congested during peak hours, potentially extending drive times and impacting the timely arrival at appointments.

Heading west on US-6 leads towards larger cities like Bryan, Ohio, where Bryan Hospital provides comprehensive medical services. The drive to Bryan typically takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This relatively short commute makes Bryan a feasible option for routine check-ups and specialist visits. However, the lack of alternative routes can become problematic if US-6 experiences delays due to accidents or construction.

To the east, US-6 connects to larger metropolitan areas, including Fort Wayne, Indiana. While Fort Wayne offers a wider array of specialized medical services, the drive time increases significantly, often exceeding an hour. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential traffic delays, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing acute symptoms. The availability of Interstate 80/90, the Ohio Turnpike, provides an alternative, albeit toll-based, route to these larger medical hubs, potentially reducing travel time, but adding to the overall cost.

Local roads, such as State Route 49 and State Route 2, provide access to smaller towns and medical clinics. These routes offer scenic drives, but they can be winding and less direct, potentially increasing travel time. Furthermore, the quality of these roads can vary, especially during inclement weather, which can further complicate travel.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within Edgerton and the surrounding areas are limited. Williams County does not currently have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or prefer not to drive. This underscores the importance of alternative transportation solutions, particularly for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

While there is no regularly scheduled public transit, Williams County offers a demand-response transportation service for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, often requiring advance booking, may provide transportation to medical appointments within the county. However, the limited operating hours and the potential for delays can pose challenges for those with strict appointment schedules. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is essential to ensure that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize this service.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

The emergence of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, has provided an alternative transportation option in many areas. However, the availability of these services in Edgerton is inconsistent. The limited population density and the distance to major urban centers may result in longer wait times or the unavailability of ride-sharing services, especially during off-peak hours. This uncertainty presents a challenge for individuals who rely on these services for healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transport providers, offer a dedicated solution for individuals requiring assistance with transportation to medical appointments. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited depending on the specific needs of the patient and the distance to the healthcare facility.

**Assessing the Hypertension Score: A Synthesis**

The "Hypertension Score" for Edgerton, Ohio (43517), reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to Bryan Hospital offers relatively convenient access to routine medical care, the limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services pose challenges. The longer drive times to larger medical centers in Fort Wayne necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential traffic delays.

For individuals considering a move to Edgerton, or for current residents managing hypertension, a thorough assessment of their individual transportation needs is essential. Those who are able to drive and own a vehicle will likely find the existing infrastructure adequate for accessing healthcare. However, individuals who rely on public transportation, ride-sharing, or medical transport services should carefully evaluate the availability and reliability of these options.

The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the need for community initiatives to improve healthcare access. This could include advocating for expanded demand-response transportation services, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies, or promoting the development of local medical clinics.

Ultimately, the "Hypertension Score" for Edgerton is influenced by the individual's ability to navigate the existing transportation landscape. While the community offers certain advantages, particularly the proximity to Bryan, the limited options necessitate careful planning and proactive strategies to ensure consistent and reliable access to healthcare. This is especially crucial for individuals managing hypertension, where regular medical attention is essential for maintaining their health and well-being. This assessment provides a starting point for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Edgerton, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their health and transportation needs. The future of healthcare access in Edgerton hinges on a collaborative effort to improve transportation options and ensure that all residents can receive the care they need.