43010, Catawba, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43010, Catawba, Ohio is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

67.01 percent of residents in 43010 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Urbana Hospital with a distance of 9.39 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43010

Assessing healthcare accessibility within ZIP code 43010, encompassing the charming community of Catawba, Ohio, requires a multifaceted approach. We must consider the time it takes to reach medical facilities, the modes of transportation available, and the specific needs of the population. This analysis aims to provide an "Overall Health Score," illuminating the ease or difficulty residents face when seeking medical care. The score will be derived from a combination of factors, including drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The primary determinant of healthcare access is the distance and time required to reach a medical facility. For residents of Catawba, the closest hospitals and specialized clinics are located in neighboring cities. Driving is the most common mode of transportation. The primary roadways serving the area are **US Route 68**, **State Route 19**, and **State Route 54**. Depending on the specific location within 43010 and the destination, drive times can vary considerably.

Reaching Springfield Regional Medical Center, a major healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey primarily utilizes **US Route 68** and can be subject to congestion during peak hours. For those seeking specialized care at facilities in Dayton, such as the Kettering Health Network, the commute extends to about 45 minutes to an hour, often involving travel on **Interstate 70**.

The availability of public transportation is a crucial factor in healthcare access, especially for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. Unfortunately, the public transit options in Catawba and the surrounding area are limited. The primary provider is the **Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority (GDRTA)**, which operates bus routes in the Dayton area. However, these routes do not directly serve Catawba. Residents would likely need to rely on a combination of private transportation to reach a GDRTA stop.

Furthermore, the GDRTA’s website indicates that all fixed-route buses are equipped with **ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features**, including ramps and lifts. This is vital for residents with mobility impairments. However, the lack of direct routes to Catawba significantly limits the utility of public transportation for healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative mode of transportation, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a vehicle. The availability of these services in Catawba is generally good, but the cost can be a significant barrier for some residents. The price of a ride to Springfield or Dayton can be substantial, particularly during peak hours or when demand is high.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, also play a vital role. Companies like **CareRide** and **Medicaid Transportation Services** provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services cater to individuals with disabilities or those unable to drive themselves. While these services exist, their availability and scheduling can vary. Booking in advance is often required, and the cost may not be fully covered by insurance, leading to out-of-pocket expenses.

Healthcare access is also significantly impacted by the availability of primary care physicians and specialists within the community. While Catawba itself may not have a wide array of medical practices, the proximity to Springfield and Dayton provides access to a broader range of healthcare providers. However, this access is contingent upon the ability to travel to these locations.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP code 43010 is moderately impacted. While residents have access to medical facilities in nearby cities, the reliance on personal vehicles or costly ride-sharing services creates challenges. The limited public transportation options and the potential for long drive times further contribute to a less-than-ideal score.

Considering all factors, the overall health score for healthcare access in 43010 can be categorized as "Fair to Good." The proximity to Springfield and Dayton provides access to a range of medical services. However, the lack of robust public transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential cost of ride-sharing services create barriers for some residents.

For individuals considering moving to Catawba, Ohio, understanding these transportation challenges is critical. Prospective residents should factor in the time and cost associated with accessing healthcare when making their decision. They should also consider their individual transportation needs and preferences.

To improve the health score, several interventions could be implemented. Expanding public transportation options, including routes that directly serve Catawba, would significantly enhance healthcare access. Subsidizing ride-sharing services for low-income residents could also help. Furthermore, promoting the establishment of medical practices within the community, such as a primary care clinic, would reduce drive times and improve convenience.

The health score is not static. It is influenced by ongoing developments in transportation and healthcare. As the community grows and evolves, the health score will likely change. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of Catawba have adequate access to the healthcare they need.