45821, Cecil, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 45821, Cecil, Ohio is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.64 percent of residents in 45821 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ridgeview Hospital with a distance of 24.29 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 45821

The journey to managing hypertension in Cecil, Ohio (ZIP Code 45821) is more than a medical endeavor; it’s a transportation challenge. This write-up explores the complexities of healthcare access in this rural community, focusing on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services. Understanding these factors is crucial for residents managing hypertension and for individuals considering moving to Cecil, as they directly impact the ability to receive timely and consistent care.

The very fabric of Cecil’s healthcare access is woven with the threads of transportation. The sprawling landscape necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for the majority of residents. This dependence, however, presents challenges for those with mobility limitations, limited access to vehicles, or those who simply prefer alternative modes of travel. The "Hypertension Score" in this context becomes a measure of how easily residents can access necessary medical appointments, pharmacies, and other healthcare resources, especially when managing a chronic condition like hypertension.

The primary arteries of Cecil's transportation network are the state highways and county roads. Route 127, a north-south artery, provides the most direct access to larger towns and cities where comprehensive healthcare facilities are more readily available. Traveling south on Route 127, one can reach Van Wert, approximately 15 miles away. This drive typically takes around 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Further south, Fort Wayne, Indiana, a regional healthcare hub, is accessible via Route 127 and then U.S. 30, a journey of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the time of day.

East-west travel is primarily facilitated by county roads and state routes. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can be subject to delays due to agricultural traffic, especially during planting and harvesting seasons. Accessing healthcare facilities to the east, in communities like Defiance, requires navigating these roads, adding travel time and potentially increasing the burden on individuals with hypertension. The condition necessitates regular check-ups and medication refills, making transportation reliability paramount.

Public transportation options in 45821 are limited. There is no dedicated public bus system operating within Cecil itself. The nearest public transit options are likely to be found in the larger cities of Van Wert or Fort Wayne, which would require a car or ride-sharing service to get to. This lack of accessible public transit exacerbates the challenges for individuals who are unable to drive or who cannot afford the costs associated with owning and maintaining a vehicle. The absence of ADA-compliant buses or routes further restricts healthcare access for individuals with disabilities, making the "Hypertension Score" particularly low for this demographic.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is not consistent. The availability of these services is often dependent on driver availability, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be risky, as cancellations or delays can disrupt treatment plans and lead to missed appointments, which can have serious consequences for individuals managing hypertension.

Medical transportation services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or who require assistance with mobility. Several providers operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require advance booking and may have limitations on the distance or type of service provided. The cost of these services can be a significant financial burden, particularly for individuals with limited incomes or those who require frequent transportation. The availability of these services, and their affordability, directly impact the "Hypertension Score" for residents.

The challenges of transportation in 45821 have a direct impact on healthcare access, especially for those with hypertension. The need for regular check-ups, medication refills, and potential specialist appointments necessitates reliable and accessible transportation options. The lack of robust public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transportation all contribute to a lower "Hypertension Score" for the community.

For those considering moving to Cecil, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. The availability of a personal vehicle is almost essential for accessing healthcare. Prospective residents should also research the availability and cost of medical transportation services, as well as the proximity of healthcare facilities and pharmacies. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape effectively is paramount for managing hypertension and maintaining overall health.

The “Hypertension Score” in 45821 is not just a measure of medical care; it reflects the intricate relationship between transportation and health. The rural nature of the community, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, presents significant barriers to healthcare access. The journey to managing hypertension in Cecil is a journey defined by the roads, the limited public transit options, and the dependence on personal vehicles. Addressing these transportation challenges is essential for improving the health and well-being of all residents, and for ensuring that Cecil remains a viable and healthy place to live.