43516, Deshler, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43516, Deshler, Ohio is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.78 percent of residents in 43516 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.65 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry County Hospital, Inc with a distance of 16.59 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43516 (Deshler, Ohio)

This comprehensive analysis evaluates the ease and efficiency of accessing healthcare within and from ZIP Code 43516, Deshler, Ohio. Understanding the transportation landscape is crucial for residents seeking medical attention, influencing their overall health and well-being. This report considers various transportation modalities, including private vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, assessing their impact on healthcare access. It is particularly relevant for individuals considering moving to Deshler and seeking insights into the healthcare environment.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Deshler is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town's rural setting and limited public transportation options necessitate driving to reach most healthcare providers. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities involve navigating the local road network, including Ohio State Route 18, Ohio State Route 65, and Ohio State Route 109. These roads provide connections to larger towns and cities where hospitals, specialist clinics, and other healthcare services are located.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and traffic conditions. For routine appointments, residents often travel to nearby towns like Napoleon (approximately 20-30 minutes) or Bowling Green (around 45-60 minutes). These drive times can increase during peak hours or in inclement weather. Accessing specialized care, such as advanced medical procedures or specialist consultations, may require longer journeys to Toledo (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes) or larger metropolitan areas.

Public transportation options in Deshler are limited, posing a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Wood County Committee on Aging offers some transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services may provide transportation to medical appointments within a limited service area, but availability and scheduling limitations can affect healthcare access. Public transit routes, such as those operated by the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA), do not directly serve Deshler.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent. Availability may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources. The fluctuating nature of ride-share prices can create uncertainty for individuals planning medical appointments.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs who cannot drive themselves or utilize public transportation. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist with patient transport. However, the availability of medical transport services in Deshler may be limited, and the cost can be substantial. The need for pre-booking and scheduling can also add complexity to healthcare access.

The physical accessibility of healthcare facilities is another crucial factor. While most modern healthcare facilities are designed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments, the ease of access to transportation to these facilities is equally important. The lack of readily available accessible transportation options can create significant barriers for individuals with disabilities.

The overall health score for commute to healthcare in ZIP Code 43516 reflects the challenges associated with transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, limited public transit options, and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services contribute to a moderately challenging healthcare access environment. The absence of robust public transit and the potential for lengthy drive times to specialized care facilities create obstacles for some residents.

The availability of medical transport services and the ADA compliance of healthcare facilities mitigate some of these challenges. However, the cost and availability of these services can still pose barriers. The overall score reflects the need for improvements in transportation infrastructure and the expansion of healthcare access options to better serve the residents of Deshler.

For individuals considering moving to Deshler, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. While the town offers a close-knit community and a slower pace of life, healthcare access requires careful planning and consideration of transportation options. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and ensure they have reliable access to a vehicle or alternative transportation solutions.

The healthcare landscape in Deshler is influenced by its location and the surrounding infrastructure. The town's proximity to larger cities like Napoleon, Bowling Green, and Toledo offers access to a wider range of healthcare services, but the commute times must be factored into healthcare planning. The availability of specialists, the presence of urgent care facilities, and the quality of local primary care providers all contribute to the overall healthcare environment.

The health score considers the impact of transportation on healthcare access, acknowledging that transportation is a critical determinant of health outcomes. Individuals with limited transportation options may face difficulties in attending appointments, accessing preventative care, and managing chronic conditions. The score reflects the need for community initiatives and policy changes to improve healthcare access in Deshler.

Improving healthcare access in Deshler requires a multi-faceted approach. This may include exploring options for expanding public transportation services, partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation, and increasing the availability of medical transport services. Additionally, promoting telehealth services can reduce the need for in-person visits and expand healthcare access for residents.

Ultimately, the overall health score for commute to healthcare in ZIP Code 43516 highlights the importance of transportation in healthcare access. While Deshler offers a pleasant living environment, residents must consider the challenges of accessing healthcare and proactively plan for their transportation needs. By understanding the existing transportation landscape and advocating for improvements, residents can contribute to a healthier community.