43467, West Millgrove, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43467, West Millgrove, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

61.76 percent of residents in 43467 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 12.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in West Millgrove (ZIP Code 43467)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately linked to its access to essential services, most notably healthcare. This analysis delves into the landscape of healthcare accessibility for residents of West Millgrove, Ohio (ZIP Code 43467), focusing on the crucial element of transportation. Understanding the ease or difficulty of reaching medical facilities is paramount in evaluating the overall health score of this rural community. We will explore the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, considering drive times, route complexities, and accessibility features. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families considering moving to West Millgrove, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in West Millgrove is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town itself is relatively small, and the surrounding area is characterized by farmland and open spaces. This necessitates travel to larger towns and cities for specialized medical care. The most direct route to healthcare providers often involves navigating the rural roads that crisscross the region. Residents typically utilize **Ohio State Route 199** to connect to larger thoroughfares.

For those seeking care in Bowling Green, a common destination for medical services, **Ohio State Route 64** provides a crucial link. Driving from West Millgrove to Bowling Green, a distance of approximately 15 miles, typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. However, weather can significantly impact travel times, particularly during winter months when snow and ice are common. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier for those requiring urgent medical attention or who have mobility limitations.

Further afield, Toledo offers a wider array of specialized medical facilities. The journey to Toledo from West Millgrove involves traveling on **Ohio State Route 199** to connect with **U.S. Route 23** or **Interstate 75**. The distance is roughly 35 miles, and the drive can take upwards of 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. This longer commute poses challenges for individuals needing frequent appointments, such as those undergoing dialysis or chemotherapy.

Public transportation options in West Millgrove are limited. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) provides transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while valuable, is primarily focused on serving the needs of a specific demographic and may not be readily available for all residents. Furthermore, the service typically requires advance booking, which may not be suitable for urgent medical situations. The lack of a comprehensive public transit system significantly impacts the overall health score, particularly for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence may be limited, particularly in rural areas like West Millgrove. The availability of drivers and the associated costs can be significant barriers to healthcare access. The cost of a ride-share to Bowling Green or Toledo could be substantial, especially for frequent appointments. This factor must be considered when assessing the overall healthcare accessibility for residents.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies, are available for emergency situations. However, these services are primarily designed for critical care and are not typically used for routine medical appointments. The cost of medical transport can also be prohibitive for many residents, adding to the financial burden of healthcare.

The availability of healthcare facilities within West Millgrove itself is also a factor. While the town may have a family physician or a small clinic, specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, and specialized surgery, is typically unavailable. This necessitates travel to larger cities, further emphasizing the importance of reliable transportation options. The lack of local access to specialized care significantly impacts the overall health score.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transportation and ride-sharing services. While the WCCOA provides accessible transportation options, the limitations of the service, and the lack of other public transit, pose challenges for individuals with disabilities. The availability of accessible vehicles and drivers is crucial for ensuring that all residents can access healthcare services, regardless of their physical abilities.

The overall health score for West Millgrove, concerning healthcare access, is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While residents can generally reach healthcare providers by car, the travel times, reliance on personal vehicles, and limited public transportation options create challenges. The lack of readily available ride-sharing services and the high cost of medical transportation further exacerbate these difficulties.

For individuals and families considering moving to West Millgrove, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Those who rely on public transportation, have mobility limitations, or require frequent medical appointments should carefully evaluate the challenges associated with accessing healthcare in this rural community.

The community could benefit from initiatives to improve healthcare access, such as advocating for expanded public transportation options, partnering with ride-sharing services to provide discounted rates for medical appointments, and exploring the feasibility of establishing telehealth services. These efforts could significantly improve the overall health score and enhance the quality of life for residents of West Millgrove.

In conclusion, the ability to access healthcare is a fundamental aspect of community health. While West Millgrove offers a sense of rural tranquility, the transportation challenges associated with reaching medical facilities must be carefully considered. The overall health score is moderately impacted by these limitations, underscoring the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare accessibility for all residents. The importance of transportation cannot be overstated when considering moving to West Millgrove.