45861, Melrose, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 45861, Melrose, Ohio is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

81.45 percent of residents in 45861 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.79 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Paulding County Hospital with a distance of 9.91 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare in Melrose, Ohio (ZIP Code 45861)

Melrose, Ohio, nestled within the 45861 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for individuals managing hypertension. This write-up analyzes the transportation infrastructure and healthcare access within and surrounding Melrose, providing a "Hypertension Score" that reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services. This score considers factors like drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. For those considering moving to Melrose, this analysis provides a critical perspective on managing their health within this community.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Melrose is the ability to reach medical facilities. For residents with hypertension, timely access to appointments, medications, and emergency care is paramount. The most direct route to healthcare often involves personal vehicles.

Driving is the dominant mode of transportation in this rural area. The primary arteries for navigating to healthcare facilities are US Route 127 and State Route 118. Traveling south on US-127 connects Melrose to the larger towns of Celina and Van Wert, where specialized medical services are more readily available. State Route 118 offers a more direct route east towards the city of Delphos.

Drive times, however, can vary significantly depending on the destination and traffic conditions. A typical drive to Van Wert Health, the closest hospital, averages around 20-25 minutes via US-127. Reaching Celina for other medical options, such as Mercer Health, might take approximately 30-40 minutes. Delphos, accessed via State Route 118, presents a slightly shorter drive time, typically around 15-20 minutes. These times assume normal traffic conditions, and inclement weather, common in Ohio, can significantly extend them.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. Van Wert County does not have a traditional public bus system. This severely limits the accessibility of healthcare for those without personal vehicles. Individuals reliant on public transit face significant challenges in reaching medical appointments, obtaining prescriptions, and managing their hypertension effectively. The lack of robust public transportation is a significant factor negatively impacting the Hypertension Score for Melrose residents.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, though their presence is not as consistent as in more urban areas. Availability can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying solely on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments is not always feasible. The unpredictable nature of ride-sharing availability contributes to the challenges of healthcare access for Melrose residents.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Several providers operate within the region, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies. These services typically require pre-booking and can be costly. While they provide a crucial lifeline for those unable to drive or utilize other transportation options, their cost and the need for advance planning can create barriers to healthcare access.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features on any medical transport vehicle are essential for those with mobility issues. Ensuring that these vehicles are accessible is critical for providing equitable healthcare access to all residents.

The availability of pharmacies within Melrose is also a crucial factor. Having convenient access to medication refills is essential for managing hypertension. The presence of a local pharmacy, or easy access to one in a nearby town, significantly improves the Hypertension Score.

The overall Hypertension Score for Melrose, Ohio (45861) reflects the interplay of these factors. While the presence of hospitals and medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance provides a foundation for healthcare access, the limitations of public transportation and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services present significant challenges. The dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for extended drive times, particularly during inclement weather, contribute to a moderate level of healthcare access.

For individuals managing hypertension, careful consideration of transportation options is essential. Planning appointments in advance, exploring medical transport services, and ensuring access to medication refills are crucial strategies.

Moving to Melrose requires a realistic assessment of the transportation landscape. While the community offers a peaceful and rural environment, the challenges of healthcare access must be weighed against the benefits. Individuals with hypertension should prioritize researching healthcare facilities, pharmacies, and transportation options before making a move.

The Hypertension Score for Melrose is not simply a number; it is a reflection of the community's ability to support the health and well-being of its residents. Improving this score requires addressing the limitations of public transportation, promoting the availability of ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability and accessibility of medical transport options. This will contribute to a healthier and more supportive environment for all residents, especially those managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The goal is to create a community where healthcare access is not a barrier but a readily available resource, allowing residents to thrive in their chosen home.