43450, Pemberville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43450, Pemberville, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.98 percent of residents in 43450 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 9.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Pemberville, OH (ZIP Code 43450)

Pemberville, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Wood County, offers a charming, small-town atmosphere. However, when considering a move, especially for those prioritizing healthcare access, understanding the complexities of transportation is paramount. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare facilities from ZIP code 43450, considering drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods. The score reflects the ease, efficiency, and accessibility of reaching essential medical services.

The "Overall Health Score" is derived from a composite of factors. These include the proximity of healthcare providers, the availability and reliability of transportation options, and the presence of features that enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Each element is weighed to provide a comprehensive assessment, reflecting the reality of navigating the healthcare landscape in and around Pemberville. The score will highlight areas of strength and weakness, offering insights for potential residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Backbone of Access**

For most Pemberville residents, personal vehicles represent the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The efficiency of this system hinges on the condition of local roadways and the distance to medical facilities. The good news is that the region is relatively well-served by a network of roads.

The most direct route to larger healthcare centers often involves utilizing **Ohio State Route 199**, which connects Pemberville to nearby towns like Perrysburg and Bowling Green. Traveling south on 199 provides access to the major healthcare facilities in the Perrysburg and Maumee area, including ProMedica facilities. The drive time to these hospitals can range from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

Traveling north on **Ohio State Route 199** leads to Bowling Green, home to Wood County Hospital. This is a shorter drive, typically around 15-20 minutes. The hospital offers a range of services, making it a convenient option for many residents.

**Ohio State Route 105** also serves as a crucial artery, connecting Pemberville to neighboring communities. This route provides access to smaller clinics and specialist offices, often located within a 10- to 20-minute drive.

**U.S. Route 6** is also available, offering alternative routes to various destinations. However, it often involves navigating through more congested areas, which could increase travel times, especially during peak hours.

The overall drive times are generally manageable, making healthcare access relatively convenient for those with personal vehicles. However, the reliance on cars introduces potential challenges, including traffic congestion, weather-related delays, and the cost of fuel and vehicle maintenance.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Pemberville are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The primary provider of public transit in Wood County is the Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA).

WCCOA offers a demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule their trips in advance. This service, while valuable for seniors and individuals with disabilities, is not ideal for spontaneous healthcare visits. The scheduling requirements can create logistical hurdles, potentially delaying or complicating access to timely medical care.

The WCCOA vehicles are equipped with ADA features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations. However, the limited service area and the need for advance booking restrict the overall utility of public transit for healthcare access.

There is no dedicated bus route that directly serves Pemberville, which means residents must rely on the demand-response service for transportation to medical appointments. This underscores the importance of considering the limitations of public transit when evaluating the healthcare access landscape.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Expanding the Horizon**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Pemberville area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by ProMedica and other regional providers, cater specifically to individuals with medical needs. These services typically provide transportation to and from healthcare appointments, often including assistance with mobility and other needs. While these services offer a valuable lifeline, they can be expensive and may require advance booking.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport services expands the transportation options available to Pemberville residents. However, their limitations, including cost, availability, and scheduling requirements, must be carefully considered when assessing the overall healthcare access score.

**Accessibility Considerations: A Critical Factor**

Accessibility is a critical component of the "Overall Health Score." The availability of accessible transportation options, such as vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts, is essential for individuals with disabilities. Healthcare facilities must also be accessible, with features like ramps, elevators, and accessible examination rooms.

The WCCOA's ADA-compliant vehicles are a positive step toward ensuring accessibility within the public transit system. However, the limited scope of public transit and the potential reliance on ride-sharing services, which may not always guarantee accessibility, pose a challenge.

The healthcare facilities in the surrounding areas generally adhere to ADA standards, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access medical services. However, it is crucial to verify the accessibility features of specific facilities before scheduling appointments.

**Overall Health Score: A Balanced Assessment**

The "Overall Health Score" for commuting to healthcare in ZIP code 43450 is moderately positive. The reliance on personal vehicles, with manageable drive times to healthcare facilities, is a significant strength. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers additional options. However, the limited public transit options and the potential challenges associated with accessibility, particularly within the public transit system, are weaknesses.

For individuals considering moving to Pemberville, understanding these transportation dynamics is crucial. While the area offers a desirable quality of life, the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services must be factored into the decision-making process. Prioritizing healthcare access requires careful planning and an awareness of the available resources.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To enhance the "Overall Health Score," several improvements could be implemented. Expanding the public transit network, potentially with a dedicated route to healthcare facilities, would significantly improve access for those without personal vehicles. Investing in additional ADA-compliant vehicles and training for drivers would enhance accessibility. Promoting the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services would also be beneficial. Finally, continued efforts to ensure the accessibility of all healthcare facilities are essential.

The "Overall Health Score" is not static; it is a reflection of the current realities and a call to action. By addressing the identified weaknesses and building upon the strengths, Pemberville can create a healthcare access environment that supports the well-being of all its residents. This is especially important for those considering moving to Pemberville, as they will want to ensure access to the best healthcare available.