43525, Haskins, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43525, Haskins, Ohio is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.80 percent of residents in 43525 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Luke's Hospital with a distance of 6.48 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Haskins, Ohio (ZIP Code 43525)

The well-being of a community hinges on numerous factors, but few are as critical as accessible healthcare. This report analyzes the ease with which residents of Haskins, Ohio (ZIP code 43525) can access medical services, providing an "Overall Health Score" based on transportation options. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation methods, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Haskins or already residing within its borders. The goal is to understand the challenges and opportunities within the local transportation landscape, ensuring residents can prioritize their health without undue burden.

Haskins, a charming village nestled in Wood County, Ohio, offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle. However, its relative isolation presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. Residents often rely on personal vehicles, making transportation a primary consideration. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are primarily located in Bowling Green, approximately a 10 to 15-minute drive, depending on traffic conditions.

Navigating the roadways is generally straightforward. Residents typically utilize **State Route 64** as their primary artery, connecting them to Bowling Green. This route offers a relatively smooth and direct path to hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices. Traffic flow is usually moderate, except during peak commuting hours, which can extend travel times slightly. The **I-75** freeway, a major north-south thoroughfare, is also accessible, though it requires navigating local roads to reach the entry points. While the interstate provides a faster route for longer distances, it isn't typically the preferred option for accessing Bowling Green healthcare.

Beyond Bowling Green, residents may need to travel further for specialized care. The city of Toledo, approximately a 30 to 45-minute drive via I-75, offers a wider array of medical specialists and advanced treatment options. This longer commute, however, can pose a challenge for those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. The **Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90)** offers another option for travel, though toll fees are a consideration.

Public transportation options in Haskins are limited. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) offers demand-response transportation services, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. While this service provides a crucial lifeline for those who cannot drive, it often requires advance booking and may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. There is no fixed-route public bus service that directly connects Haskins to Bowling Green or Toledo. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Overall Health Score, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to driving. However, availability can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, particularly for frequent trips to healthcare appointments. The reliability and affordability of these services are important considerations when assessing healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. Companies like **ProMedica Transportation** and local ambulance services provide non-emergency medical transport. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring assistance during travel. However, these services often require pre-booking and may incur additional costs.

Considering the various transportation options, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in Haskins is moderate. The relatively short drive to Bowling Green offers reasonable access to primary and some specialized care. However, the lack of robust public transit, the potential for inconsistent ride-sharing availability, and the reliance on personal vehicles for the majority of residents present significant challenges. The longer commute to Toledo for specialized services further impacts the score.

The challenges are amplified for individuals with disabilities, seniors, and those without access to a personal vehicle. These individuals are disproportionately affected by the limited public transit options and the potential cost and availability issues associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation services. The availability of the WCCOA transportation service is a positive factor, but its limited scope and demand-response nature restrict its overall impact.

The Overall Health Score also considers the potential impact of weather conditions. Ohio winters can bring snow and ice, making road travel hazardous and potentially delaying or canceling medical appointments. This seasonal factor adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access in Haskins.

For individuals considering moving to Haskins, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is crucial. Those who rely on public transit or have mobility limitations should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential challenges. Those with access to a personal vehicle will likely find healthcare access more manageable, though they should still factor in potential traffic delays and the need for occasional trips to Toledo for specialized care.

Improving healthcare access in Haskins requires a multifaceted approach. Expanding public transportation options, such as establishing a fixed-route bus service connecting Haskins to Bowling Green and Toledo, would significantly enhance the Overall Health Score. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also prove beneficial. Furthermore, promoting the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring their affordability would provide critical support for vulnerable populations.

In conclusion, the Overall Health Score for accessing healthcare in Haskins reflects a community with moderate access to medical services. While the proximity to Bowling Green offers convenient access to primary care, the limitations in public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles pose challenges for many residents. Addressing these challenges through strategic investments in transportation infrastructure and services is essential to ensuring that all residents of Haskins can prioritize their health and well-being. The future of healthcare access in Haskins hinges on the community's commitment to improving transportation options, creating a more accessible and equitable healthcare landscape for all.