45164, Port William, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 45164, Port William, Ohio is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.56 percent of residents in 45164 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Highland District Hospital with a distance of 23.35 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Port William (ZIP Code 45164)

Port William, Ohio (ZIP Code 45164), a charming village nestled amidst the rolling hills of Clinton County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. For individuals managing hypertension, the ability to readily access medical care, including regular check-ups, medication refills, and specialist appointments, is paramount. This write-up explores the transportation landscape impacting healthcare access in Port William, offering a "Hypertension Score" assessment, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for anyone considering moving to Port William, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions.

The "Hypertension Score" is not a formal medical metric. Instead, it represents a subjective assessment of the ease with which residents can access essential healthcare services, factoring in the transportation variables. A higher score suggests better access, while a lower score indicates potential barriers.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Healthcare Access**

For most Port William residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Assessing drive times to healthcare facilities is therefore critical. The closest major medical center is Clinton Memorial Hospital in Wilmington, approximately 15-20 minutes away, depending on traffic. The journey typically involves navigating Ohio State Route 73, a well-maintained two-lane highway.

From Port William, accessing Wilmington involves a straightforward drive. However, inclement weather can impact travel times, particularly during winter months. The route is generally clear, but drivers should remain vigilant, especially during periods of ice or snow.

Further afield, residents may need to travel to larger hospitals in Cincinnati or Dayton for specialized care. Reaching Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center from Port William requires a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via Interstate 71 South. This journey can be subject to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Dayton, home to several hospitals, is about a 1-hour drive via State Route 73 West and Interstate 75 North.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Port William are limited. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles, or those unable to drive. This presents a significant challenge for individuals with hypertension, who may require frequent medical appointments.

The lack of public transit presents a challenge for those with limited mobility or financial constraints. The absence of readily available public transportation contributes to a lower "Hypertension Score" for residents relying on alternative modes of transport.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Port William area, but their availability can be inconsistent. Demand fluctuates, and wait times can be longer compared to larger metropolitan areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option. Companies like CareRide and MedTrans provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-booking and may have associated fees, but they provide a vital link to healthcare for those with mobility limitations. These services are particularly crucial for individuals with hypertension who may experience dizziness or fatigue, making driving unsafe.

**Assessing the "Hypertension Score"**

Considering the factors above, the "Hypertension Score" for healthcare access in Port William, for individuals managing hypertension, is moderate. The proximity to Clinton Memorial Hospital offers a reasonable level of access for routine care. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential for variable ride-sharing availability, and the cost of medical transport services create barriers.

The score is further impacted by the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care, which increases drive times and potential for traffic delays. The overall "Hypertension Score" reflects the dependence on personal vehicles and the need for careful planning when accessing healthcare services.

**Implications for Moving to Port William**

For individuals considering moving to Port William, particularly those with hypertension or other chronic conditions, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is crucial. The availability of a personal vehicle is highly recommended. Researching the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is essential.

Prospective residents should also consider the location of their preferred healthcare providers and the associated drive times. Planning for potential traffic delays and inclement weather is also vital. Understanding the transportation landscape is critical for ensuring consistent access to healthcare and managing hypertension effectively.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access**

Several strategies could improve healthcare access for Port William residents. Expanding public transportation options, even on a limited basis, would significantly benefit those without personal vehicles. Partnering with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be beneficial.

Promoting awareness of medical transport services and providing financial assistance for those in need would further enhance access. Finally, encouraging the establishment of telehealth services and local clinics could bring healthcare closer to home.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Living in Port William offers a peaceful lifestyle. However, residents, especially those managing hypertension, must carefully consider the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access. Understanding the drive times, public transit limitations, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services is essential for ensuring consistent access to medical care. While the "Hypertension Score" is moderate, proactive planning and awareness of available resources can help residents navigate the healthcare landscape and maintain their well-being. This detailed analysis is a valuable resource for anyone considering moving to Port William, providing insights into the practicalities of healthcare access in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.