45896, Waynesfield, Ohio Hypertension Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Hypertension Score in 45896, Waynesfield, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.16 percent of residents in 45896 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lima Memorial Health System with a distance of 11.71 miles from the area.

## Hypertension Score: Accessing Healthcare in Waynesfield (ZIP Code 45896)

Waynesfield, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Auglaize County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when it comes to accessing healthcare, especially for residents managing hypertension. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 45896, provides a detailed look at the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, offering insights for current residents and those considering moving to Waynesfield. Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals seeking to maintain their health and well-being, particularly those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

The ability to reach medical facilities is a cornerstone of effective hypertension management. Regular check-ups, medication refills, and the potential need for urgent care necessitate reliable transportation options. This analysis delves into the available transportation infrastructure, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses that impact healthcare access within and around Waynesfield.

The primary mode of transportation in Waynesfield is, unsurprisingly, the personal vehicle. The town is relatively small, with limited public transit options. Therefore, the drive time to healthcare facilities is largely dependent on the road network. Residents of Waynesfield can reach several healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance.

The most direct route to Lima, Ohio, a major hub for healthcare services, involves taking **State Route 198** east. This route offers a relatively straightforward drive, typically taking around 20 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic. Within Lima, residents have access to larger hospitals like Mercy Health-St. Rita's Medical Center and Lima Memorial Health System, offering comprehensive care for hypertension and related complications.

Alternatively, accessing healthcare facilities to the west in St. Marys, Ohio, can be achieved via **State Route 198** west, connecting to **State Route 66**. This drive is generally shorter, taking approximately 15 to 20 minutes, providing access to facilities like Joint Township District Memorial Hospital. The proximity of these healthcare providers is a significant advantage for Waynesfield residents.

Navigating the roads, however, can present challenges. Rural roads can be subject to weather-related delays, particularly during winter months. Road construction, though less frequent, can also impact travel times. Residents, especially those with hypertension, need to factor these potential delays into their travel plans, ensuring they can arrive at appointments on time and avoid unnecessary stress.

Public transportation options in Waynesfield are extremely limited. Auglaize County does not have a comprehensive public bus system. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals who do not own a car, those who are unable to drive due to health conditions or age, and those who may have limited financial resources. The absence of a reliable public transportation system necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially limiting access for individuals with lower incomes.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or other health needs. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility requirements.

The availability of these services can be a lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves to appointments. However, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, and the booking process may require careful planning.

The location of pharmacies and the ease of medication access are also critical components of hypertension management. Waynesfield has limited options for pharmacies within the immediate vicinity. Residents typically rely on pharmacies located in Lima or St. Marys. This necessitates a drive to pick up prescriptions, adding to the overall transportation burden.

The availability of telehealth services offers a promising alternative to in-person appointments. Telehealth allows patients to consult with their healthcare providers remotely, reducing the need for travel. However, telehealth access depends on reliable internet connectivity and the willingness of healthcare providers to offer this service.

For individuals considering moving to Waynesfield, careful consideration of these transportation factors is essential. Assessing the availability of transportation options, understanding potential travel times, and evaluating the cost of various modes of transport are crucial steps in ensuring access to healthcare. Prospective residents should research the availability of public transportation, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. They should also consider the proximity of pharmacies and the availability of telehealth services.

The overall "Hypertension Score" for Waynesfield, based on the transportation landscape, is moderate. While the proximity of healthcare facilities in Lima and St. Marys provides a significant advantage, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges for some residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative solutions, but their cost and reliability can be limiting factors.

Improving healthcare access in Waynesfield requires a multi-faceted approach. This could involve advocating for the expansion of public transportation options, promoting the availability of telehealth services, and supporting initiatives that make ride-sharing and medical transport more affordable and accessible.

The focus should be on ensuring that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, can easily access the healthcare they need to manage their hypertension and maintain their overall well-being. This includes not only the physical transportation to medical facilities, but also the ability to obtain medications, receive timely follow-up care, and have access to preventative health services.

In conclusion, while Waynesfield offers access to healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles present challenges for some residents, particularly those managing hypertension. Understanding these factors is crucial for both current residents and those considering moving to Waynesfield. By carefully evaluating the available transportation options and advocating for improvements in healthcare access, the community can work towards ensuring that all residents can live healthy and fulfilling lives.