43106, Bloomingburg, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43106, Bloomingburg, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.25 percent of residents in 43106 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adena Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 6.34 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43106

This report assesses the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of ZIP Code 43106, centered around Bloomingburg, Ohio. It evaluates the transportation infrastructure, travel times, and available options for reaching medical facilities, ultimately assigning an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of accessing essential healthcare. This score considers the impact of transportation limitations on residents' well-being, particularly those considering **moving to Bloomingburg**.

The geography of 43106 presents both opportunities and challenges. Bloomingburg, a small village nestled in Fayette County, offers a rural charm. However, its location necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most transportation needs. The surrounding terrain is relatively flat, facilitating easier driving conditions compared to more mountainous regions. This advantage is tempered by the distances to larger medical centers and the limited availability of alternative transportation.

**Drive-Time Analysis:**

The primary roadways serving 43106 are US Route 62 and State Route 38. These routes are crucial for accessing healthcare. The nearest hospital, Fayette County Memorial Hospital in Washington Court House, is approximately a 15- to 20-minute drive via US-62. This proximity offers a relatively favorable starting point for healthcare access. However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger hospitals in Columbus, Ohio.

Driving to major hospitals in Columbus, such as OhioHealth Grant Medical Center or The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, requires a commute of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic. The most direct route involves taking US-62 North to I-71 North. The presence of I-71, a major interstate, provides a high-speed corridor, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly extend travel times.

Another option involves utilizing State Route 38 North to connect with I-70 East, leading to Columbus. This route may offer alternative options, particularly if traffic on I-71 is heavy. However, it can also be subject to delays due to construction or accidents. The variability in drive times highlights the dependence on personal vehicles and the potential for unforeseen circumstances to impact healthcare access.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public transportation options in 43106 are extremely limited. Fayette County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. This lack of public **transportation** significantly disadvantages residents who do not own vehicles, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.

While there might be limited demand-response services, such as those offered by local social service agencies, these services are typically restricted to specific populations and require advance booking. They are not a reliable or readily available alternative to private vehicles. The absence of fixed-route buses or other public transit options severely restricts **healthcare access** for many residents.

Furthermore, the lack of ADA-accessible public transit options exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities. Without accessible transportation, attending medical appointments and accessing healthcare services becomes significantly more difficult, potentially impacting their overall health and well-being.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

The availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, in 43106 is limited. While these services may be available, their presence is not guaranteed, and wait times can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport, may be available. However, these services often require pre-booking and can be expensive. The cost and availability of these services vary, potentially creating challenges for individuals needing regular medical care.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors outlined above, the Overall Health Score for **healthcare access** in 43106 is **Moderate**. The proximity to Fayette County Memorial Hospital provides a degree of convenience for basic medical needs. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation significantly impact access to specialized care and services.

The **transportation** infrastructure presents challenges for residents, particularly those without personal vehicles. The lack of readily available public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services create barriers to **healthcare access**. These limitations are especially impactful for individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and those with limited financial resources.

For individuals **moving to Bloomingburg**, it is crucial to consider the **transportation** implications for healthcare. Prospective residents should factor in the potential travel times to medical facilities, the cost of personal vehicle ownership, and the limited alternatives available.

**Recommendations:**

* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Support efforts to establish or expand public transit services in Fayette County, including fixed-route buses and demand-response options. Prioritize ADA-accessible vehicles to ensure inclusivity.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing Partnerships:** Encourage local partnerships with ride-sharing companies to offer discounted or subsidized transportation for medical appointments.
* **Promote Medical Transportation Awareness:** Increase awareness of available medical transportation services and their costs.
* **Enhance Community Support:** Foster community-based programs that assist residents with transportation needs, such as volunteer driver programs or carpooling initiatives.
* **Telehealth Expansion:** Encourage the adoption of telehealth services by local healthcare providers to reduce the need for in-person appointments, particularly for follow-up care and consultations.

By addressing these recommendations, the community can improve **healthcare access** for all residents of 43106, enhancing their overall health and well-being. The current situation necessitates proactive measures to mitigate the **transportation** challenges and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive timely and appropriate medical care.