43145, New Holland, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43145, New Holland, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.46 percent of residents in 43145 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adena Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 9.18 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43145 (New Holland, Ohio)

This assessment provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 43145, focusing on their ability to access healthcare. This score integrates various factors related to transportation, recognizing that a resident's health is inextricably linked to their capacity to reach medical services. The analysis considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those living in and considering moving to New Holland, Ohio.

ZIP Code 43145, encompassing the village of New Holland and surrounding areas, presents a unique challenge. It is a rural community where access to healthcare is often dictated by the availability of transportation. The "Overall Health Score" reflects the degree to which residents can overcome these barriers, ensuring timely and reliable access to medical care.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary determinant of healthcare access in New Holland is the automobile. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles to reach medical facilities. The most direct route to larger healthcare providers, such as those in Washington Court House (approximately 15 miles) or Circleville (approximately 20 miles), involves navigating a network of local roads and highways.

Traveling north on US-62 provides access to Washington Court House, the county seat, and home to the Adena Fayette Medical Center. The drive typically takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Southbound travel on US-62 connects New Holland to Circleville. This route provides access to Berger Hospital, offering a wider range of specialized services. The drive usually takes about 30-40 minutes.

Local roads, such as OH-753 and OH-41, offer alternative routes, though they may be less direct and potentially slower, especially during inclement weather. These roads are often narrow and winding, requiring careful driving. The condition of these roads, especially during winter months, can significantly impact travel times and accessibility.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in ZIP Code 43145 are limited. The availability of public transit is a critical component of the "Overall Health Score," as it directly impacts those without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for residents.

The absence of a dedicated bus route serving New Holland limits healthcare access for those who cannot drive. This makes it difficult for elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and low-income residents to reach medical appointments. The lack of public transportation exacerbates existing health disparities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary. Availability is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant barrier for some residents, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer an alternative. These services often cater to individuals with mobility issues or those requiring specialized assistance. Local medical transportation providers may include services like Fayette County Transportation. However, the availability and cost of these services can also be a concern.

**ADA Accessibility:**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates accessibility standards for public transportation and facilities. However, the limited public transit options in New Holland raise concerns about ADA compliance. Individuals with disabilities may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare due to the lack of accessible transportation.

Ensuring ADA compliance in all forms of transportation, including ride-sharing and medical transport, is critical for improving the "Overall Health Score" for residents with disabilities. This includes providing accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist passengers.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43145 is moderately low. The reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create barriers to accessing healthcare. The absence of a robust public transit system and the associated challenges for ADA accessibility are critical concerns.

To improve the "Overall Health Score," several recommendations are crucial. First, efforts should be made to enhance public transportation options. This could involve expanding existing routes or establishing new routes that connect New Holland to healthcare facilities in surrounding areas.

Second, collaboration between local healthcare providers, transportation services, and community organizations is essential. This collaboration can facilitate the development of coordinated transportation programs, such as subsidized ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

Third, promoting awareness of available transportation options is vital. Residents should be informed about ride-sharing services, medical transportation providers, and any existing public transit options. This can be achieved through community outreach programs, informational materials, and online resources.

Fourth, addressing the affordability of transportation is critical. Subsidies, grants, or other financial assistance programs can help reduce the cost of transportation for low-income residents and those with limited financial resources.

Fifth, investing in infrastructure improvements is essential. This includes maintaining and improving the condition of local roads, ensuring safe and reliable travel for all residents.

**Conclusion:**

Improving healthcare access in ZIP Code 43145 requires a multi-faceted approach. By addressing the limitations of existing transportation options, promoting collaboration, and increasing awareness, the "Overall Health Score" can be significantly improved. This will ensure that all residents, including those considering moving to New Holland, have the opportunity to receive timely and reliable medical care. The ability to access healthcare is a fundamental right, and improving transportation infrastructure is crucial for fostering a healthier community.