43527, Holgate, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 43527, Holgate, Ohio is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.60 percent of residents in 43527 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Defiance Hospital with a distance of 10.43 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Holgate, Ohio (ZIP Code 43527)

Holgate, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Henry County, offers a tranquil lifestyle, drawing individuals and families seeking a slower pace. However, the peace of this rural community necessitates careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for residents managing chronic conditions like hypertension. This analysis provides a "Hypertension Score" for ZIP code 43527, evaluating the ease of **transportation** to essential medical services, including specialists and pharmacies, crucial for effective hypertension management.

The score considers factors like drive times, public transit availability, and ride-share options, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for those needing regular medical attention. This information is especially pertinent for prospective residents, offering a realistic view of **healthcare access** when **moving to Holgate**.

### The Hypertension Score: A Multifaceted Assessment

The Hypertension Score is not a single number but a composite evaluation. It weighs the following elements: proximity to primary care physicians, access to cardiology specialists, availability of pharmacies, and the feasibility of different modes of **transportation**. Each aspect receives a rating, ultimately contributing to an overall understanding of the challenges and advantages of managing hypertension within Holgate.

### Driving Times: The Dominant Mode of Transportation

For many Holgate residents, personal vehicles remain the primary means of **transportation**. The closest primary care physicians are generally located within Holgate itself, offering convenient access. However, accessing specialized care, particularly cardiology, necessitates travel.

The most direct route to larger medical facilities in Defiance, Ohio, involves taking County Road 424, then connecting to US-24 West. This drive typically takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Defiance Hospital offers a range of specialists, including cardiologists, making it a vital resource for Holgate residents.

Another option involves traveling east on State Route 18 to reach Napoleon, Ohio. This route is slightly longer, around 30-35 minutes, but offers access to additional medical providers and specialized services. The choice often depends on the specific specialist needed and individual preferences.

For more comprehensive care, including specialized cardiology services, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Toledo, Ohio. This journey involves taking US-24 East to I-75 North, resulting in a drive time of approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, potentially longer during peak traffic hours. This longer commute adds a layer of complexity for individuals with hypertension, especially during urgent situations.

### Public Transit: A Limited Resource

Public **transportation** options in Holgate and the surrounding areas are limited. Henry County does offer a dial-a-ride service, but it is essential to understand its limitations. The service requires advance booking and operates within a defined service area, which may not encompass all desired destinations.

The Henry County Transit system is designed to provide **transportation** for various needs, including medical appointments. However, the service's availability and scheduling constraints may pose challenges for individuals with hypertension requiring frequent or unscheduled medical visits. The lack of fixed-route bus service significantly restricts access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

The dial-a-ride service offers ADA-accessible vehicles, ensuring **transportation** for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the need for advance booking and potential wait times can be a barrier to timely healthcare access.

### Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and availability in Holgate may be inconsistent. The presence of these services is a plus, but it's essential to check availability in advance, especially for appointments scheduled outside of peak hours.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, can be a valuable resource. Several companies, such as First Call Medical Transport and MedTrans, offer non-emergency medical **transportation** in the region. These services provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ensuring safe and reliable **transportation** to and from medical appointments. However, these services often come with a cost, which should be factored into the overall healthcare budget.

### Pharmacy Access: A Critical Component

Access to pharmacies is a crucial element of hypertension management. Holgate has a local pharmacy, providing convenient access to medications and essential pharmaceutical services. However, for specialized medications or services, residents may need to travel to pharmacies in Defiance or Napoleon.

The availability of 24-hour pharmacies in the area is limited. This is a significant consideration for individuals experiencing medication-related emergencies or needing immediate access to prescriptions.

### The Hypertension Score: A Summary

Considering all factors, the Hypertension Score for Holgate, Ohio (ZIP code 43527) reflects a moderate level of healthcare accessibility. While the presence of local primary care physicians and a local pharmacy provides a foundation for basic care, access to specialized services, particularly cardiology, necessitates **transportation** to nearby cities.

The reliance on personal vehicles is a key factor. The limited public transit options and the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services pose challenges for those without access to a car or the ability to drive. Medical **transportation** services offer a viable alternative but come with associated costs.

Individuals with hypertension considering **moving to Holgate** should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and the availability of support systems. Planning for potential travel times, understanding the limitations of public **transportation**, and exploring the availability of medical **transport** services are crucial steps in ensuring effective hypertension management.

The Hypertension Score for Holgate highlights the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating **healthcare access**. While the community offers a peaceful environment, individuals must be prepared to manage the logistical aspects of their healthcare needs. This assessment underscores the need for individuals to take a proactive approach to managing their health, including understanding their **transportation** options and the resources available to them.