43072, Saint Paris, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43072, Saint Paris, Ohio is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.09 percent of residents in 43072 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.67 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Urbana Hospital with a distance of 12.24 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43072 (Saint Paris, Ohio)

The health and well-being of a community are inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. This analysis focuses on the critical element of **transportation** within ZIP Code 43072, examining the ease with which residents of Saint Paris, Ohio, can reach medical facilities. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services, ultimately providing an “Overall Health Score” based on the challenges and opportunities presented by this vital aspect of healthcare **access**. Considering the implications for those **moving to Saint Paris**, this assessment provides a crucial perspective.

Saint Paris, a charming village nestled in Champaign County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The village's relative isolation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. The surrounding rural environment, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, can pose challenges when seeking timely medical care. The “Overall Health Score” will reflect these factors, considering the various transportation options available.

**Drive Times: The Road to Recovery**

The primary arteries serving Saint Paris are State Route 55 and State Route 235. Driving to the nearest hospitals and clinics is a central concern. The Springfield Regional Medical Center, located approximately 20 miles east, is a common destination. Expect a drive of around 30 to 45 minutes via State Route 55 and then onto US-68. Traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

Another critical healthcare provider is Mercy Health – Urbana Hospital, about 15 miles west. The drive typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, primarily utilizing State Route 55. This is a slightly closer option, offering a more convenient route for certain medical needs.

For specialized care, residents might need to travel to Dayton, approximately 40 miles south. Reaching hospitals like Miami Valley Hospital or Kettering Health Dayton involves navigating State Route 55 south and then connecting to Interstate 70. This journey can take upwards of an hour, potentially longer during rush hour. The distance and potential for delays add a layer of complexity to healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Saint Paris are limited. Champaign County, like many rural areas, does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The Champaign County Transit System (CCTS) offers demand-response services, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This system is designed primarily for essential trips, including medical appointments.

The CCTS does provide curb-to-curb service, but its availability is restricted by operating hours and geographical coverage. Scheduling a ride requires careful planning, and the service may not be suitable for urgent medical needs. The lack of fixed routes and frequent schedules presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles.

**ADA Compliance:** The CCTS strives to provide accessible transportation for individuals with disabilities. All vehicles are equipped with accessibility features, including ramps or lifts, to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. Passengers with disabilities are encouraged to notify the CCTS when booking their ride to ensure appropriate accommodations are available.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Saint Paris, though their presence may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability can fluctuate depending on driver density and demand. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning, including booking rides well in advance to ensure availability and account for potential wait times.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations, provide another option. Companies like MedTrans and First Medical Transportation operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve scheduled rides to and from medical appointments, utilizing specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other medical equipment. While these services can be invaluable, they often require pre-authorization from insurance providers and may involve additional costs.

**Overall Health Score and Considerations**

Based on the factors analyzed, the "Overall Health Score" for transportation to healthcare in ZIP Code 43072 is moderate. The reliance on personal vehicles presents the most significant advantage, offering flexibility and control over travel times. However, the distance to hospitals and the potential for traffic delays add a layer of complexity.

The limited public transit options and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose challenges, particularly for individuals without access to a personal vehicle or those with mobility limitations. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net for those with specific needs, but the associated costs and pre-authorization requirements must be considered.

**Implications for Those Moving to Saint Paris:**

Individuals considering **moving to Saint Paris** must carefully assess their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities. The village's relative isolation necessitates proactive planning. Consider the following:

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** Identify the nearest hospitals, clinics, and specialists to determine potential drive times.
* **Transportation alternatives:** Evaluate the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options.
* **Public transit limitations:** Understand the restrictions and scheduling requirements of the Champaign County Transit System.
* **Personal vehicle dependence:** A personal vehicle is highly advantageous for accessing healthcare in Saint Paris.
* **Emergency preparedness:** Develop a plan for accessing emergency medical services, including knowing the location of the nearest emergency room and potential ambulance response times.

**Conclusion:**

While Saint Paris offers a tranquil lifestyle, the challenges of accessing healthcare due to transportation limitations must be acknowledged. The "Overall Health Score" reflects a landscape where personal vehicles are essential, public transit is limited, and ride-sharing availability can be variable. Those **moving to Saint Paris** should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs, consider the available transportation options, and plan accordingly to ensure timely and reliable access to medical care. The community's health and well-being depend on it.