43333, Lewistown, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43333, Lewistown, Ohio is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.12 percent of residents in 43333 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.70 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mary Rutan Hospital with a distance of 9.00 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43333 (Lewistown, Ohio)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. In Lewistown, Ohio (ZIP Code 43333), this access is heavily influenced by transportation options, creating a complex web of challenges and opportunities for residents. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, offering a nuanced understanding for those considering moving to Lewistown or seeking to improve healthcare access within the community.

Lewistown, a rural community, presents unique transportation hurdles. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The ability to drive oneself or rely on a driver is paramount. The main arteries for accessing healthcare facilities outside of Lewistown are **State Route 273** and **State Route 292**, connecting to larger roadways like **U.S. Route 33**. These routes, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to seasonal weather, particularly snow and ice during winter months.

Drive times to healthcare facilities are a critical factor. The closest primary care options are likely within a 15-20 minute drive, depending on traffic and the specific location within Lewistown. However, access to specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical services, necessitates travel to larger regional centers. For instance, a trip to Mary Rutan Hospital in Bellefontaine, Ohio, typically takes around 25-35 minutes via U.S. Route 33. Reaching facilities in larger cities like Columbus, Ohio, can easily exceed an hour, demanding significant time and financial resources. This dependence on personal vehicles can be a significant barrier for those without them, or for those with mobility limitations.

Public transportation options in Lewistown are limited. The Logan County Transit system offers some services, but the routes and frequency are not designed to specifically cater to healthcare access. The routes are not designed to be healthcare-specific. The service may provide a degree of mobility within the county, but it's unlikely to offer direct or timely access to all necessary medical appointments. Information on ADA accessibility features (e.g., wheelchair lifts, ramps) is available through the Logan County Transit website or by contacting their office directly.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in the area, but their availability is sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The reliability of these services for medical appointments is questionable. The unpredictable nature of ride availability can lead to missed appointments or significant delays, impacting the continuity of care. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a financial burden, particularly for frequent appointments or long distances.

Medical transportation services are a crucial component of healthcare access for those with mobility limitations or specific medical needs. Several medical transport providers serve the Lewistown area, including private ambulance services and non-emergency medical transport companies. These services offer transportation to and from medical appointments, providing a vital lifeline for individuals who cannot drive themselves. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and pre-booking is often required, necessitating careful planning.

The overall "Overall Health Score" for healthcare access in Lewistown, Ohio (ZIP Code 43333) is moderate, with a significant reliance on personal vehicles. While primary care options are relatively accessible, access to specialized care and the limitations of public transit and ride-sharing services pose considerable challenges. The availability of medical transport services provides a crucial safety net, but the cost and planning requirements add complexity.

For individuals considering moving to Lewistown, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the availability and reliability of alternative transportation options, including medical transport services. The cost of transportation should be factored into the overall cost of living.

Improving healthcare access in Lewistown requires a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transportation options, potentially with dedicated routes or services for medical appointments, could significantly improve accessibility. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical needs could also be beneficial. Increasing awareness of available medical transport services and providing financial assistance for those in need are crucial steps.

Furthermore, the expansion of telehealth services could mitigate the need for frequent travel, particularly for follow-up appointments or consultations. Encouraging the recruitment of healthcare professionals to Lewistown and the surrounding area could also bring more services closer to home.

The "Overall Health Score" is dynamic, reflecting the changing needs of the community and the evolution of transportation and healthcare technologies. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of healthcare access are essential to ensure that all residents of Lewistown have the opportunity to live healthy and fulfilling lives. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape directly impacts the well-being of the community.