43438, Kelleys Island, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43438, Kelleys Island, Ohio is 22 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.21 percent of residents in 43438 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.51 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Magruder Hospital with a distance of 13.51 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43438

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report, focusing on ZIP code 43438 (Kelleys Island, Ohio), analyzes the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in navigating the transportation landscape to reach medical facilities. The objective is to provide an "Overall Health Score" reflecting the ease and efficiency with which residents can access necessary medical services. This analysis is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Kelleys Island, as transportation limitations significantly impact healthcare access.

Kelleys Island, a jewel in Lake Erie, presents a unique challenge. Its island location necessitates reliance on ferry services for most transportation needs. This geographic constraint immediately impacts healthcare access, creating a situation where residents are not just commuting, but embarking on a journey. The Overall Health Score will reflect this complexity.

**Drive Times and Road Networks:**

The primary challenge for car travel is the ferry. Residents must first drive to the mainland. From Kelleys Island, the most direct route to the mainland involves taking the Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line. The drive to the ferry terminal, located at 510 W Main St, Marblehead, OH 43440, is relatively straightforward. Once on the mainland, residents have access to a network of highways and roads.

From the Marblehead ferry terminal, individuals can utilize Ohio State Route 269, connecting to Ohio State Route 2, a major east-west artery. This route provides access to hospitals and medical facilities in Sandusky, Port Clinton, and surrounding areas. Traffic conditions, especially during peak seasons, can impact drive times.

Driving to Firelands Regional Medical Center in Sandusky, a major healthcare provider, typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes from the ferry terminal, excluding the ferry crossing. This drive involves navigating Route 2 and local roads. Similarly, accessing Magruder Hospital in Port Clinton is a shorter trip, around 15-20 minutes from the ferry terminal via Route 2. These drive times are estimates and can be significantly affected by traffic, weather, and the ferry schedule.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options are limited. There is no public bus service directly connecting Kelleys Island to mainland healthcare facilities. The primary public transit option is the ferry service itself. While the Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line provides a vital link, it does not offer direct transportation to medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. The Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line strives to accommodate passengers with disabilities. They provide accessible boarding ramps and designated seating areas. However, the transfer from the ferry to ground transportation on the mainland requires careful planning and may necessitate assistance.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available on the mainland but are generally not accessible on Kelleys Island itself. This means residents must arrange for transportation from the ferry terminal to their medical appointments. The availability and reliability of ride-share services can vary, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services are an essential resource for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized care. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing ambulance and non-emergency medical transportation. These services can be crucial for residents of Kelleys Island needing to access healthcare. However, the cost of medical transport can be a significant barrier to access.

**Ferry Considerations:**

The ferry schedule is a critical factor. The Kelleys Island Ferry Boat Line operates on a seasonal schedule, with reduced service during the off-season. This can limit the frequency of trips and impact the ability to schedule medical appointments. Weather conditions, particularly during the winter months, can also cause ferry cancellations, further restricting access to healthcare.

The ferry crossing itself adds significant time to the overall commute. The crossing takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on weather conditions. This time must be factored into the total travel time to and from medical appointments. The ferry also has limited capacity, and during peak season, reservations are highly recommended.

**Healthcare Access and its Impact:**

The challenges in transportation directly impact healthcare access. Residents of Kelleys Island may face difficulties in attending routine appointments, accessing specialized care, or responding to medical emergencies. This can lead to delayed diagnoses, inadequate treatment, and poorer health outcomes.

The availability of urgent care facilities on the island is limited. This means residents must travel to the mainland for urgent medical needs. The time required to reach the mainland can be critical in emergency situations. The island's volunteer fire department is equipped with emergency medical services, but they still need to transport patients to the mainland for comprehensive care.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors discussed, the Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 43438 is moderate. While the ferry provides a vital link, the limitations in transportation options, the ferry schedule, and the potential for weather-related disruptions create significant challenges.

To improve the Overall Health Score, several recommendations are proposed. First, enhancing the availability of ride-share services on the island could facilitate transportation to and from the ferry terminal. Second, strengthening partnerships with medical transport providers to offer subsidized or discounted services for residents of Kelleys Island would be beneficial. Third, exploring options for expanding the availability of telehealth services on the island could reduce the need for travel for certain types of appointments.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of the ferry schedule and encouraging residents to plan their medical appointments in advance is crucial. Finally, continued investment in the island's emergency medical services is essential to ensure timely responses to medical emergencies.

**Moving to Kelleys Island and Healthcare Access:**

For individuals considering moving to Kelleys Island, understanding the challenges of healthcare access is paramount. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and consider the potential impact of transportation limitations. They should research the availability of medical services, familiarize themselves with the ferry schedule, and explore alternative transportation options.

By proactively addressing these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure their well-being while living on Kelleys Island. The Overall Health Score, though moderate, can be improved through strategic planning and community collaboration. The unique challenges of Kelleys Island require innovative solutions to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents.