43511, Custar, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43511, Custar, Ohio is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.52 percent of residents in 43511 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 11.61 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43511 (Custar, OH)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its access to healthcare. In ZIP Code 43511, encompassing the village of Custar, Ohio, this access is largely determined by the efficiency and availability of transportation. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, considering the various modes of transportation available to residents seeking medical attention. We will delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture of the healthcare accessibility landscape for those living in or considering moving to Custar.

Custar, a small village nestled in Wood County, presents a unique challenge when it comes to healthcare access. The rural nature of the area dictates a reliance on personal vehicles and a limited availability of alternative transportation options. This impacts the overall health score, particularly for those without reliable transportation or those requiring specialized medical care. The score will reflect the degree of ease, convenience, and affordability in reaching essential healthcare services.

**Drive Times and Road Infrastructure**

The primary mode of transportation for residents of Custar is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The village's location necessitates travel to larger towns and cities for most healthcare needs. Reaching Bowling Green, the county seat and a hub for medical facilities, typically involves a drive of approximately 20-30 minutes, primarily utilizing **State Route 65**. This route is generally well-maintained, but potential delays can arise due to traffic, especially during peak hours or agricultural seasons.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to Toledo, which is approximately a 45-60 minute drive. The journey to Toledo necessitates navigating **U.S. Route 24**, a major thoroughfare, and then utilizing the **I-75** interstate highway. While the interstate provides a faster route, traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, can significantly extend travel times. The condition of these highways is generally good, though winter weather can present challenges.

The convenience of personal vehicle transportation is, however, offset by the costs associated with vehicle ownership, fuel, and maintenance. These costs can be a significant barrier to healthcare access for low-income individuals and families. The overall health score is therefore affected by the economic burden of relying on personal vehicles for healthcare.

**Public Transit: A Limited Offering**

Public transportation options within and around Custar are extremely limited. Wood County does not have a comprehensive public transit system that extends into the village. The nearest public transit services are in Bowling Green, which is accessible via **State Route 65**. However, these services are primarily focused on local routes within the city and may not be directly accessible to residents of Custar.

The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the overall health score, especially for those who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or have mobility limitations. The absence of accessible, affordable, and reliable public transportation is a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for the elderly, disabled, and low-income populations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the broader Toledo and Bowling Green areas. However, their availability in Custar is less consistent, and surge pricing during peak hours or times of high demand can make these services expensive. The reliability of ride-sharing services in this rural area is also a concern, particularly for those needing to schedule appointments or require urgent medical attention.

Medical transport services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies and specialized medical transportation providers, are available. These services are primarily designed for patients who require assistance with mobility or have specific medical needs. However, these services can be expensive and may require prior arrangements, making them less accessible for routine healthcare appointments.

**ADA Accessibility**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems and facilities be accessible to individuals with disabilities. However, the limited availability of public transit in Custar and the reliance on personal vehicles raise concerns about ADA compliance and healthcare access for individuals with disabilities. The lack of accessible transportation options significantly reduces the overall health score for this demographic.

**Healthcare Access and the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Custar, OH (43511) is moderate, reflecting the challenges and limitations of transportation options. While residents can access healthcare facilities through personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical transport create significant barriers for many.

The score is particularly affected by the following factors: the distance to healthcare facilities, the limited availability of alternative transportation, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for economic hardship due to transportation costs.

**Moving to Custar: Considerations for Healthcare**

For individuals considering moving to Custar, healthcare access should be a primary consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and assess the availability of reliable and affordable transportation options. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should be particularly mindful of the limited availability of such services.

The overall health score is also influenced by the availability of local healthcare providers, such as family doctors and urgent care clinics. While Custar itself may not have a wide range of healthcare facilities, residents can access healthcare services in nearby towns and cities.

**Conclusion**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Custar, OH (43511) is impacted by the transportation landscape. While personal vehicles offer a primary means of accessing healthcare, the absence of robust public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing services, and the potential for economic hardship due to transportation costs present significant challenges. Improving public transit options, expanding ride-sharing availability, and providing financial assistance for transportation costs would significantly enhance the overall health score and improve healthcare access for residents of Custar.