43502, Archbold, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43502, Archbold, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.87 percent of residents in 43502 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Health Center with a distance of 8.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43502 (Archbold, Ohio)

This analysis assesses the accessibility of healthcare services for residents of Archbold, Ohio (ZIP Code 43502), considering various modes of transportation. We evaluate drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to generate an overall health score. This score aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of healthcare access, a critical factor for individuals and families considering moving to Archbold.

Archbold, nestled in Fulton County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. Its rural setting influences transportation dynamics, requiring careful consideration of travel times and alternative options. The overall health score reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by this environment, offering a realistic picture of healthcare accessibility for current and prospective residents.

**Driving Times and Roadways:**

For many Archbold residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Accessing healthcare often involves driving on specific roadways. The primary artery is US-6, which traverses east-west through the village, connecting to essential services. Driving west on US-6 leads to larger healthcare facilities in Bryan, Ohio, approximately a 20-minute drive. Eastward on US-6 connects to Wauseon, Ohio, a similar distance, offering additional healthcare options.

State Route 66 provides north-south access, connecting Archbold to surrounding communities and healthcare providers. Travel times vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions, but generally, reaching nearby medical facilities remains manageable. The lack of significant traffic congestion in Archbold contributes to relatively short drive times, enhancing healthcare access for most residents.

However, longer distances may be required for specialized care. For instance, accessing tertiary care centers in Toledo, Ohio, necessitates a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, primarily via the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/90) and US-24. This longer commute necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

**Public Transportation:**

Public transportation options in Archbold are limited, which impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Fulton County Transit offers a demand-response service, providing transportation within Fulton County. This service requires advance booking and may have limited availability, potentially posing challenges for urgent medical needs.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for individuals with disabilities. Fulton County Transit offers ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring equal access to transportation services. However, the demand-response nature of the service requires careful coordination and may not always align with the immediacy of healthcare appointments.

The absence of fixed-route public transit significantly impacts healthcare access. Residents relying on public transportation face potential delays and logistical challenges, particularly for appointments outside of Archbold. This limitation underscores the importance of alternative transportation options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Archbold, although their presence may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Availability depends on driver density and demand, potentially impacting the reliability of ride-sharing for healthcare appointments. Residents must factor in potential wait times and surge pricing when considering ride-sharing as a transportation option.

Medical transport services offer a crucial lifeline for individuals requiring specialized transportation. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) within the region. These services cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive themselves.

The availability of NEMT services is a significant advantage for healthcare access. These services typically require advance booking and may have varying levels of insurance coverage. Residents should research and understand the specific services offered by each provider, including covered destinations and associated costs.

**Healthcare Facilities and Providers:**

Archbold is home to Fulton County Health Center, a critical healthcare provider offering a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and specialized clinics. This local facility significantly enhances healthcare access for Archbold residents, reducing the need for frequent long-distance travel.

The presence of local primary care physicians and specialists is another vital component of healthcare access. Archbold benefits from a network of healthcare providers, offering convenient access to routine medical care. However, the availability of specialized services may be limited, necessitating travel to larger healthcare centers for certain treatments.

**Overall Health Score and Recommendations:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Archbold (ZIP Code 43502) is moderate. While the presence of a local hospital and primary care providers enhances access, limitations in public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services mitigates some of these challenges, but their reliability and cost should be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Archbold, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is crucial. Those reliant on public transit or those with mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly. The proximity of healthcare facilities in neighboring communities like Bryan and Wauseon provides additional choices, but travel times must be factored in.

The future of healthcare access in Archbold could benefit from initiatives to enhance public transportation, such as exploring partnerships with ride-sharing companies or expanding demand-response services. Increased awareness of medical transport options and their availability would also improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Ultimately, the overall health score reflects a balance between the advantages of a local healthcare presence and the challenges of a rural transportation landscape. By understanding these dynamics, residents can make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs and ensure access to the services they require. Careful planning and consideration of transportation options are key to navigating the healthcare landscape in Archbold.