43510, Colton, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43510, Colton, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.04 percent of residents in 43510 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry County Hospital, Inc with a distance of 7.92 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Colton, Ohio (ZIP Code 43510)

Colton, Ohio, nestled within the 43510 ZIP code, presents a unique landscape for individuals seeking to assess their overall health score, particularly concerning healthcare access. The ability to readily reach medical facilities, specialists, and essential healthcare services is a critical component of well-being, and the transportation infrastructure significantly impacts this access. This write-up delves into the intricacies of commuting to healthcare within and around Colton, analyzing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities for residents.

The primary challenge for Colton residents lies in its relative isolation. While the town offers a sense of community and tranquility, the nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities are often located in neighboring towns and cities, increasing the reliance on personal vehicles. This dependence on private transportation necessitates an understanding of road networks and potential travel times.

Driving to healthcare appointments is the most common mode of transportation for Colton residents. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in the region include **US-6**, which runs east-west through the area, and **State Route 24**, which provides a north-south corridor. Heading east on US-6 leads to healthcare facilities in Napoleon, approximately a 20-minute drive under normal traffic conditions. This drive provides access to Henry County Hospital, offering a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments.

Traveling south on State Route 24 provides access to Defiance, Ohio, a drive of about 30 minutes. Defiance is home to ProMedica Defiance Hospital, a larger facility providing a broader range of medical specialties and emergency services. The commute on State Route 24 can be impacted by traffic, particularly during peak hours or in inclement weather, which can extend travel times.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel further afield. Toledo, Ohio, located approximately an hour's drive northeast via **US-24** and **I-475**, offers a wide array of healthcare options, including the University of Toledo Medical Center and ProMedica Toledo Hospital. These facilities provide access to advanced medical technologies and specialists not readily available in smaller towns. The longer commute to Toledo necessitates careful planning, factoring in potential traffic delays and the need for comfortable and reliable transportation.

Public transportation options in Colton are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles. The lack of a robust public transit system means that residents must rely heavily on alternative methods, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport, which can be costly and less readily available.

While the region does not have a comprehensive public transit system within Colton, the potential for future expansion is always a possibility. Considering the needs of residents, especially those with mobility limitations, the implementation of accessible and affordable public transportation is a crucial step toward improving healthcare access.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Colton area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Ride-sharing services can be a viable option for those without personal vehicles, but the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent healthcare appointments. The reliability of these services is also a concern, as delays or cancellations can disrupt schedules and potentially impact healthcare access.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals who require assistance with transportation due to medical conditions or mobility limitations. These services, such as the American Medical Response (AMR) and local ambulance services, provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from healthcare appointments. However, these services often require prior scheduling and can be expensive, making them less accessible for routine healthcare needs.

For individuals considering moving to Colton, the assessment of healthcare access is crucial. The availability of reliable transportation is a key factor in maintaining good health. While the town offers a peaceful environment, the distance to healthcare facilities and the limited public transit options pose challenges. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and consider the potential costs and limitations of available services.

Improving healthcare access in Colton requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation infrastructure, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and expanding medical transport options are all essential steps. Encouraging the development of telehealth services and promoting community-based healthcare initiatives can also help bridge the gap in access.

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in Colton, Ohio, is impacted by the interplay of transportation options and the distance to medical facilities. While the availability of personal vehicles and the presence of ride-sharing services offer some flexibility, the limited public transit options and the potential for long travel times create challenges.

Ultimately, the ability to reach healthcare services is a fundamental determinant of overall health. For residents of Colton, understanding the complexities of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access is crucial for making informed decisions about their health and well-being. By addressing the transportation challenges and exploring innovative solutions, Colton can strive to create a healthier community for all its residents.