43402, Bowling Green, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43402, Bowling Green, Ohio is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.58 percent of residents in 43402 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 0.83 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43402

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access is a critical consideration for anyone contemplating a move, especially when assessing the overall health score of a potential new home. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 43402, encompassing Bowling Green, Ohio, and meticulously examines the transportation landscape that connects residents to essential medical services. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the ease and efficiency with which individuals can reach healthcare providers, directly impacting their overall well-being.

The primary arteries of transportation in and around Bowling Green are crucial to understanding healthcare access. Interstate 75 (I-75) serves as a major north-south thoroughfare, providing a relatively direct route to healthcare facilities in Toledo, approximately 20 miles north. However, the potential for traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. US Route 6, a major east-west road, offers access to local medical services and connects to other regional healthcare providers.

Drive times to healthcare facilities within ZIP Code 43402 itself are generally manageable. Wood County Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, is conveniently located within the city limits, minimizing travel time for many residents. Local clinics and physician offices are also readily accessible, contributing to a favorable score for immediate healthcare needs. However, the availability of specialized care might necessitate travel to Toledo or other regional centers.

Public transportation presents another dimension to healthcare access. The Bowling Green Transit System (BG Transit) provides bus services within the city. While the system is relatively small, it offers routes that connect to key locations, including medical facilities. Crucially, BG Transit adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. This commitment to inclusivity is a significant positive factor in the overall health score.

Beyond BG Transit, regional bus services operated by the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) offer connections to Toledo and its extensive healthcare network. These routes, while potentially involving longer travel times, open up access to a broader range of specialized medical services. TARTA also provides ADA-compliant services, enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Careful consideration of these public transit options is vital for those who do not drive or prefer alternative transportation methods.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bowling Green and offer a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, transportation option. Their presence enhances the overall health score by providing on-demand access to healthcare facilities. Individuals can summon a ride directly from their homes, eliminating the need to rely solely on public transit or personal vehicles. However, the availability and cost of these services can fluctuate, particularly during peak demand or in areas with limited coverage.

Medical transportation services play a crucial role in supporting individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs that preclude them from driving or using standard transportation options. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the Bowling Green area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with boarding and disembarking, and can accommodate individuals with wheelchairs or other mobility devices. The availability and reliability of these services are essential for ensuring that vulnerable populations can access necessary healthcare.

The presence of specialized medical transportation services significantly boosts the overall health score. They provide a lifeline for individuals who might otherwise struggle to reach their appointments, ensuring continuity of care and promoting overall well-being. When moving to Bowling Green, it is important to research the specific NEMT providers that serve the area and understand their service areas, costs, and availability.

The availability of healthcare providers within ZIP Code 43402 itself is a critical factor in the overall health score. Wood County Hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient care, and various specialty clinics. This local presence significantly reduces the need for extensive travel for routine medical needs. The proximity of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities contributes to a favorable score for immediate healthcare access.

However, the availability of specialized medical services may necessitate travel outside of Bowling Green. The proximity to Toledo, with its larger hospitals and specialized medical centers, provides access to a broader range of healthcare options. This proximity is a positive factor, but the drive times and potential traffic congestion must be considered.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43402 is relatively positive. The presence of a local hospital, readily accessible clinics, and physician offices contributes to a favorable score for immediate healthcare needs. The availability of public transportation, including ADA-compliant services, enhances accessibility for individuals who do not drive or have mobility challenges. Ride-sharing services and medical transportation options further improve the score by providing convenient alternatives for accessing healthcare facilities.

However, the need for specialized medical services may require travel to Toledo or other regional centers. The drive times and potential traffic congestion on I-75 and US Route 6 must be factored into the overall assessment. The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services and medical transportation options should also be carefully considered.

When assessing the overall health score, it is essential to consider individual needs and circumstances. Factors such as age, mobility, and the need for specialized medical care will influence the perceived ease of access to healthcare. For individuals with chronic conditions or complex medical needs, the availability of specialized services and the efficiency of transportation options are particularly critical.

In conclusion, ZIP Code 43402 offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, supported by a combination of local providers, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation services. While the need for specialized care may necessitate travel to regional centers, the overall transportation infrastructure supports a relatively favorable health score. Anyone moving to Bowling Green should carefully evaluate their individual healthcare needs and consider the transportation options available to ensure they can easily access the medical services they require.