43517, Edgerton, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43517, Edgerton, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.44 percent of residents in 43517 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.75 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43517 (Edgerton, Ohio)**

The overall health score for residents of Edgerton, Ohio (ZIP code 43517), is significantly influenced by their ability to access healthcare. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, considering drive times, public transit options, and ride-share availability, to determine the accessibility of medical services. This analysis is crucial for individuals and families considering moving to Edgerton, as it directly impacts their health and well-being.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Edgerton is the automobile. Driving is the primary mode of transportation for most residents. The town’s location in Williams County necessitates travel to surrounding communities for a comprehensive range of medical services. Key highways and roads shape the commute. Residents typically utilize US-6, a vital east-west artery, and State Route 2, which provides north-south connectivity. These routes are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, especially during peak hours or adverse weather conditions.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary depending on the destination and the specific services needed. For basic primary care, residents can often find a local physician within a reasonable distance. However, specialized care, such as cardiology, oncology, or advanced surgical procedures, often requires traveling to larger medical centers in cities like Fort Wayne, Indiana, or Defiance, Ohio. These trips can involve significant travel times, potentially exceeding an hour, impacting the timeliness of care.

Public transportation options in Edgerton are limited. The absence of a comprehensive public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle. There is no dedicated bus service or fixed-route system within the town or connecting it to neighboring communities. This lack of public transportation disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

The absence of robust public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and affordability can vary. The frequency of service may be limited, and surge pricing during peak demand or off-peak hours can make these options cost-prohibitive for some residents. Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are available. These services are often utilized by individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance with transportation to and from medical appointments.

The availability of NEMT services is a critical factor in healthcare access. However, the quality and reliability of these services can vary. It is essential for residents to research and identify reputable NEMT providers that offer reliable transportation, particularly for those with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transportation systems, when available, must provide accessible services for individuals with disabilities. However, the lack of a public transit system in Edgerton means this legal requirement is not directly applicable.

The nearest major medical centers are located outside of Edgerton, increasing the complexity of healthcare access. Bryan Hospital in Bryan, Ohio, is a regional hospital offering a range of services. However, more specialized care may necessitate travel to larger hospitals in Fort Wayne, Indiana, such as Parkview Regional Medical Center or Lutheran Hospital, or to Defiance, Ohio, to the ProMedica Defiance Hospital. These longer distances add to the overall commute time and can create barriers to accessing timely medical attention.

The healthcare access landscape in Edgerton is further complicated by the availability of healthcare providers within the community. The presence of local physicians and clinics is essential for providing primary care and addressing routine medical needs. However, the availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, or dermatologists, may be limited, requiring residents to travel to larger cities for specialized consultations and treatments.

The impact of transportation on healthcare access is particularly pronounced for individuals with chronic health conditions. Regular medical appointments, physical therapy sessions, and medication refills are essential for managing chronic diseases. The time and expense associated with traveling to healthcare facilities can create a significant burden for these individuals, potentially leading to delayed or missed appointments and a decline in their overall health.

For those considering moving to Edgerton, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is crucial. Prospective residents should research the availability of healthcare providers in the area, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities. They should also consider the transportation options available, including drive times to medical centers, the availability of ride-sharing services, and the accessibility of medical transportation.

Furthermore, individuals with specific healthcare needs, such as those requiring regular dialysis treatments or specialized medical equipment, should carefully evaluate the availability of these services within a reasonable distance. The ability to access healthcare services efficiently and affordably is a critical factor in determining the overall quality of life in Edgerton.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of Edgerton (ZIP code 43517) is moderately impacted by transportation limitations. While drive times to primary care providers may be reasonable, accessing specialized care requires travel to larger medical centers, increasing commute times. The lack of public transportation and the variable availability of ride-sharing services further exacerbate the challenges. Individuals considering moving to Edgerton should carefully assess their healthcare needs and the transportation options available to ensure they can access the medical services they require. The local community could benefit from exploring strategies to improve healthcare access, such as partnering with ride-sharing services, establishing a local transportation program, or attracting additional healthcare providers to the area.