43526, Hicksville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43526, Hicksville, Ohio is 79 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.93 percent of residents in 43526 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Community Memorial Hospital with a distance of 1.13 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43526 (Hicksville, Ohio)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately woven into the fabric of its infrastructure, particularly its transportation systems. In Hicksville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43526), the ability to access healthcare is a crucial determinant of its overall health score. This analysis delves into the complexities of *transportation* options available, evaluating drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services to provide a comprehensive understanding of *healthcare access* for residents. For those *moving to Hicksville*, this information is vital for informed decision-making.

The primary consideration for healthcare access in Hicksville is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town itself is relatively small, and while it offers some local medical services, the majority of specialized care necessitates travel to larger regional centers. The major artery for travel is US-6, running east-west through the heart of Hicksville. This road provides direct access to local businesses and connects to other critical routes.

Traveling east on US-6 leads to Defiance, Ohio, approximately 20 miles away. This drive, typically taking around 25-35 minutes depending on traffic and time of day, provides access to the ProMedica Defiance Hospital, a comprehensive medical facility offering a wide range of services. Heading west on US-6 offers access to Fort Wayne, Indiana, a larger metropolitan area, roughly 45 miles away. This journey, taking approximately 50-60 minutes, opens up access to a wider array of hospitals, specialists, and advanced medical technologies.

North-south travel is facilitated by State Route 49. This route provides access to smaller towns and villages, but it's not a direct route to any major healthcare facilities. The condition of these roads is generally well-maintained, though winter weather can sometimes pose challenges, particularly for those with mobility issues or limited vehicle capabilities.

Public *transportation* options are severely limited in Hicksville. There is no established public bus system within the town itself. The lack of public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not own a vehicle, are unable to drive, or have mobility limitations. This absence directly impacts the health score, as it restricts *healthcare access* for a vulnerable segment of the population.

While there is no local bus service, some regional transportation options may exist. The Northwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (NORTRAN) provides limited service in the surrounding counties. However, its routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the specific needs of Hicksville residents seeking healthcare. The frequency of these routes is limited, and they are unlikely to offer direct access to the major healthcare facilities in Defiance or Fort Wayne. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on these routes is limited, which further compounds the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Hicksville area, though their availability is not guaranteed. The limited population density and the distance to larger urban centers mean that wait times for a ride-sharing vehicle can be significant. The cost of these services can also be prohibitive, particularly for frequent medical appointments or those on fixed incomes. This dependence on ride-sharing, while a potential solution, presents both accessibility and affordability challenges.

Medical *transportation* services are available, primarily for non-emergency medical needs. These services typically involve specialized vehicles and trained personnel to transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary significantly. Companies like MedStar and American Medical Response (AMR) might service the area. These services are often reserved for patients who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to travel independently. The utilization of these services adds to the overall cost of healthcare and can further restrict access for those without adequate insurance coverage.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43526 is negatively impacted by the limited *transportation* options. The reliance on personal vehicles, while common in rural areas, creates a barrier for those without access to a car. The absence of public transit and the limited availability of ride-sharing services exacerbate these challenges. The availability of medical *transportation* services provides a safety net, but their cost and limited scope do not fully address the overall need for accessible and affordable *healthcare access*.

For individuals *moving to Hicksville*, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those who rely on public *transportation* or have mobility limitations should carefully consider the logistical challenges of accessing healthcare. While the town offers a sense of community and a slower pace of life, the constraints on *transportation* and *healthcare access* must be weighed against the benefits.

The health score for Hicksville could be improved by exploring options such as partnerships with regional *transportation* providers to create a more flexible and responsive system. The implementation of a volunteer driver program, similar to those found in some other rural communities, could provide an affordable and accessible option for residents in need of medical *transportation*. Furthermore, the promotion of telehealth services could also help bridge the gap in *healthcare access*, allowing residents to consult with healthcare professionals remotely.

In conclusion, the health score for healthcare access in Hicksville, Ohio, reflects the challenges of a rural community. While residents have access to medical facilities within a reasonable driving distance, the limitations in public *transportation*, ride-sharing, and the potential cost of medical *transportation* create significant barriers for some. For those *moving to Hicksville*, understanding these challenges and proactively planning for *healthcare access* is crucial for maintaining their health and well-being. The community's overall health score can be improved by addressing these *transportation* needs and exploring innovative solutions to enhance *healthcare access* for all residents.