43464, Vickery, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43464, Vickery, Ohio is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.82 percent of residents in 43464 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.05 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Magruder Hospital with a distance of 6.82 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43464

The pursuit of well-being necessitates seamless access to healthcare, a critical factor influencing the quality of life. In evaluating the overall health score for residents of Vickery, Ohio (ZIP Code 43464), we must meticulously examine the available transportation infrastructure and its impact on healthcare access. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transportation services, providing a comprehensive picture for those considering moving to Vickery and their healthcare needs.

Vickery, a small community nestled in Sandusky County, presents a unique challenge. The rural setting dictates a reliance on personal vehicles for most transportation needs. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are US-6 and OH-2. US-6, a major east-west thoroughfare, provides a direct route to Fremont, the county seat, where the ProMedica Memorial Hospital and several specialist clinics are located. OH-2, running parallel to Lake Erie, offers another route, although slightly longer, to the same healthcare destinations.

Drive times, therefore, become a central component of our assessment. Residents of Vickery can expect a drive time of approximately 15-20 minutes to reach Fremont via US-6. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage, contributing positively to the overall health score. However, traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can slightly increase travel times, potentially impacting those with urgent healthcare needs. The ability to quickly reach emergency services is paramount.

Public transportation options in Vickery are limited. Sandusky County Regional Transit (SCRT) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are designed primarily to serve Fremont and the surrounding areas. Currently, there are no direct, regularly scheduled bus routes that specifically serve Vickery and connect directly to major healthcare facilities. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the health score, especially for individuals who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with private transportation.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible public transit is crucial. SCRT does offer some vehicles equipped with accessibility features, but the limited service area and infrequent schedules can pose significant challenges for individuals with disabilities. This lack of comprehensive, accessible public transportation further diminishes the overall health score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 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. Furthermore, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes. This financial constraint further influences the health score, potentially restricting access to necessary medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from healthcare appointments, provide another layer of support. Several medical transportation companies operate in the Sandusky County area. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, often including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, the availability of these services can vary, and scheduling appointments requires advance planning.

The presence of medical transportation services is a positive factor, enhancing the overall health score. The ability to access specialized care, even without personal transportation, is vital. However, the need for pre-planning and potential scheduling conflicts can still present challenges.

The overall health score for Vickery, Ohio (43464) reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Fremont and its healthcare facilities, coupled with relatively short drive times via US-6 and OH-2, contributes positively. However, the limitations in public transportation, including a lack of direct routes and inconsistent ADA accessibility, significantly detract from the score. The reliance on ride-sharing services, with their inherent cost and availability constraints, further impacts the assessment. The availability of medical transportation services offers a crucial lifeline, particularly for those with mobility limitations.

Therefore, when considering the impact of transportation on healthcare access, Vickery presents both advantages and disadvantages. For individuals with personal vehicles, the commute to healthcare is relatively manageable. However, for those without personal transportation, the limited public transit options and reliance on ride-sharing or medical transportation can present significant challenges.

The health score for Vickery, in terms of transportation and healthcare access, is moderately positive. While the physical distance to healthcare facilities is not excessive, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential cost barriers associated with alternative transportation options necessitate careful consideration. Potential residents moving to Vickery should thoroughly assess their transportation needs and healthcare requirements to ensure they can readily access the medical care they need. The community’s overall health is closely tied to its ability to overcome these transportation challenges and ensure equitable healthcare access for all its residents. This is especially important for families and seniors.

The future of healthcare access in Vickery could be improved by advocating for expanded public transit routes, improved ADA accessibility, and potentially subsidized ride-sharing programs for vulnerable populations. This would significantly boost the overall health score and improve the quality of life for all residents, making Vickery an even more attractive place to live. The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to provide accessible and affordable healthcare.