43164, Williamsport, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43164, Williamsport, Ohio is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

34.80 percent of residents in 43164 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.08 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adena Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 16.93 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in Williamsport, OH (ZIP Code 43164)

Williamsport, Ohio, a tranquil community nestled in Pickaway County, presents a unique landscape for evaluating overall health. This assessment, focusing on healthcare access via transportation, provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for residents, particularly those considering moving to Williamsport. The score considers the ease and efficiency of reaching essential medical services, a critical determinant of well-being. The analysis delves into drive times, public transportation options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport, painting a detailed picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape.

The primary factor influencing the 'Overall Health Score' is the time and effort required to reach healthcare facilities. Williamsport's location, while offering rural charm, necessitates understanding the transportation infrastructure. Driving is the predominant mode, and the efficiency of this system significantly impacts the score. Residents primarily rely on State Route 56, a crucial artery connecting Williamsport to larger towns and healthcare hubs. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, especially near the intersection with US Route 62.

US Route 62 serves as a major thoroughfare, offering access to more comprehensive medical facilities located in Circleville and beyond. Drive times to Circleville, the nearest town with a hospital (Berger Hospital), typically range from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within the city. This relatively short drive time contributes positively to the 'Overall Health Score'.

For those seeking specialized care or more extensive medical services, Columbus, Ohio, presents a significant healthcare destination. The drive to Columbus, utilizing US Route 62 and eventually connecting to Interstate 71, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. This longer travel time, while offering access to a wider array of medical specialists and facilities, slightly lowers the score, highlighting the potential for increased travel-related stress and fatigue, especially during emergencies.

Public transportation options in Williamsport are limited. The Pickaway County Transit provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed for frequent healthcare access. The availability of public transit is a key consideration for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The lack of robust public transit, particularly routes directly serving healthcare facilities, negatively impacts the 'Overall Health Score'. The absence of ADA-compliant features on all public transit vehicles further diminishes the score for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Williamsport, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This variability impacts the reliability of ride-sharing as a primary means of healthcare access. The potential for increased costs, especially during emergencies, can also contribute to a lower 'Overall Health Score' for those reliant on ride-sharing.

Medical transport services are another crucial element in the healthcare access equation. Several specialized medical transport providers operate in the region, offering services for non-emergency medical appointments and emergency situations. These services, including ambulance and medical car services, are vital for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. The responsiveness and efficiency of these services directly influence the 'Overall Health Score'. The availability of medical transport is essential, especially for residents with chronic conditions or those recovering from medical procedures.

The 'Overall Health Score' also considers the availability of local healthcare providers within Williamsport itself. The presence of family practices, urgent care clinics, and pharmacies contributes positively to the score, reducing the need for frequent travel to distant facilities. The proximity of these local resources enhances convenience and reduces the burden of healthcare access. Access to local pharmacies for medication refills and consultations is a significant factor in improving the score.

For individuals considering moving to Williamsport, understanding the transportation landscape is paramount. The 'Overall Health Score' provides a valuable framework for assessing the ease of accessing healthcare. While Williamsport offers a peaceful environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options necessitate careful consideration. Potential residents should factor in drive times, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the responsiveness of medical transport providers.

The 'Overall Health Score' for Williamsport, based on this analysis, is moderately positive. The relatively short drive to Circleville for basic medical needs contributes positively. However, the longer travel times to Columbus for specialized care, the limited public transportation options, and the variability of ride-sharing services introduce challenges. The availability of medical transport and the presence of local healthcare providers mitigate some of these challenges.

In conclusion, the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in Williamsport (ZIP Code 43164) reflects a balance of advantages and disadvantages. While the community offers a peaceful lifestyle, potential residents must carefully consider the transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. Understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-sharing, and the responsiveness of medical transport services is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare access and overall well-being. The score emphasizes the importance of careful planning and preparation for managing healthcare needs in this rural setting.