43451, Portage, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43451, Portage, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.31 percent of residents in 43451 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 4.60 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43451

This report analyzes the overall health score for residents of ZIP code 43451, focusing on the critical element of healthcare access. We will examine the various transportation options available, their efficiency, and their impact on residents' ability to reach medical facilities. This is particularly relevant for those considering moving to Portage, as healthcare access is a significant factor in overall well-being.

The foundation of a healthy community rests on its ability to provide accessible healthcare. Factors like the availability of transportation, the proximity of medical facilities, and the ease of navigating the journey all contribute to a resident's ability to receive timely and necessary care. This analysis will provide a comprehensive overview of these elements within the 43451 ZIP code.

**Drive-Time Analysis: The Road to Wellness**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments is personal vehicles. Understanding drive times to various medical facilities is crucial. The 43451 ZIP code, encompassing the village of Portage, Ohio, benefits from its location near major roadways.

Traveling eastward on **US-6** provides access to healthcare facilities in Bowling Green, the county seat. Expect a drive of approximately 15-20 minutes to reach Wood County Hospital, a major healthcare provider. The route is generally straightforward, with well-maintained roads. However, rush hour traffic, especially around Bowling Green State University, can extend travel times.

Heading south on **OH-25** offers another route to Bowling Green and access to the same medical facilities. This route is slightly longer in terms of mileage but can sometimes be less congested than US-6, depending on the time of day. The condition of the roads is generally good, but drivers should be mindful of seasonal weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further. Accessing healthcare in Toledo, Ohio, requires navigating **I-75** northbound. This journey can take between 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This route provides access to a wider array of hospitals and specialist physicians. However, the commute can be stressful, especially during peak hours.

**Local Roadways and Accessibility**

Within the 43451 ZIP code itself, local roads such as **Portage Road** and **Sand Road** provide access to local businesses and services, including some primary care physicians. These roads are generally well-maintained, but their narrowness in certain areas can pose challenges for larger vehicles or emergency vehicles.

The availability of adequate parking at medical facilities is also a critical factor. Wood County Hospital, for example, offers ample parking, including designated spaces for individuals with disabilities. However, parking at some smaller clinics or specialist offices in Toledo may be more limited.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Healthcare Network**

Public transportation options in the 43451 ZIP code are limited but present. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) provides transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, including trips to medical appointments. This service, while invaluable, may require advance booking and is not a general public transit system.

The Bowling Green Transit system does not directly serve the village of Portage. Therefore, residents relying on public transit for healthcare access must rely on alternative options. This lack of robust public transportation presents a significant barrier for those without access to a personal vehicle, particularly the elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals.

**ADA Compliance and Considerations**

For individuals with disabilities, the accessibility of transportation options is paramount. WCCOA transportation services are designed to be ADA-compliant, providing accessible vehicles and trained drivers. However, the lack of broader public transit options in the area limits healthcare access for those who cannot drive or cannot afford ride-sharing services.

The availability of accessible parking at medical facilities and the ease of navigating the buildings themselves are also crucial. Wood County Hospital, like most modern medical facilities, is designed to be ADA-compliant, ensuring access for all patients.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Bowling Green and Toledo areas, providing an alternative transportation option. However, the cost of these services can be prohibitive for some individuals, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, are available for individuals requiring assistance with transportation. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, they are typically more expensive than ride-sharing services and may require advance booking.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands serve the area. These include, but are not limited to, local providers specializing in non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often used by individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation options.

**Overall Health Score Implications**

The overall health score for residents of 43451 is influenced by the accessibility of healthcare. While residents have access to healthcare facilities via personal vehicles, the lack of robust public transit options and the reliance on potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical transport services present challenges.

The limited public transportation options disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents. This can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, negatively impacting their health outcomes.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the overall health score, several recommendations are crucial. First, exploring the feasibility of expanding public transit services to better serve the village of Portage is essential. This could involve extending existing routes or establishing a dedicated shuttle service to connect residents with healthcare facilities.

Second, promoting and subsidizing ride-sharing services for medical appointments could help alleviate transportation barriers for low-income individuals. This could involve partnerships between healthcare providers and ride-sharing companies to offer discounted fares.

Third, raising awareness of existing medical transport services and providing financial assistance to those who qualify could improve access to care for individuals with mobility challenges.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

The availability and accessibility of transportation directly impact the health and well-being of residents in the 43451 ZIP code. While the area offers access to healthcare via personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport services present challenges, especially for vulnerable populations.

By addressing these transportation barriers, the community can significantly improve the overall health score and create a more equitable healthcare environment for all residents, making Portage a more attractive place for those considering moving and prioritizing healthcare access. The focus on improved transportation options is crucial for fostering a healthy and thriving community.