43553, Pettisville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43553, Pettisville, Ohio is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 43553 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.27 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Health Center with a distance of 4.92 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43553 (Pettisville, Ohio)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. This report assesses the overall health score for residents of Pettisville, Ohio (ZIP Code 43553), focusing on the crucial element of transportation to and from medical facilities. This analysis considers various transportation options, including driving, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare accessibility in this rural area. The goal is to provide valuable insights for current residents and those considering **moving to Pettisville**, highlighting the challenges and opportunities related to **healthcare access**.

The primary factor influencing the health score is the geographical reality of Pettisville. Nestled in Fulton County, Ohio, the village is characterized by its rural setting, which inherently impacts **transportation** options. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel for most healthcare needs. This distance, coupled with the limitations of available transportation, directly influences the overall health score.

Driving remains the most common mode of **transportation** for Pettisville residents seeking healthcare. The primary routes to access medical facilities involve navigating a network of highways and local roads. To reach major healthcare providers in Archbold, residents typically utilize County Road 24, a well-maintained rural road. This route offers a relatively short drive, typically taking under 15 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger cities such as Defiance or Toledo. Traveling to Defiance involves utilizing State Route 2, a state highway, followed by US-6. The drive to Defiance can take around 30-45 minutes. The journey to Toledo is considerably longer, requiring travel on US-6, followed by the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90) or US-24. This trip can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on the destination within Toledo and traffic conditions.

The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Winter weather, with its potential for snow and ice, can make driving conditions hazardous, potentially delaying or even preventing access to healthcare. This vulnerability contributes negatively to the overall health score.

Public transit options in Pettisville are limited. Fulton County does not have a robust public transportation system. While there may be some limited demand-response services operated by local agencies, these are often geared towards seniors and individuals with disabilities, and availability is often restricted. There are no fixed-route bus services that serve Pettisville. The absence of readily available public transit significantly hinders **healthcare access** for those who do not drive or cannot afford other transportation options. The lack of public transit is a major drawback when considering **moving to Pettisville**.

The absence of robust public transit disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes. These groups may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare, leading to delayed care, missed appointments, and ultimately, poorer health outcomes. The lack of accessible public transit, including vehicles with ADA features, further exacerbates these difficulties.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability can be inconsistent. While these services offer a convenient alternative to driving, their availability is often limited, particularly in rural areas like Pettisville. Surge pricing, common during peak hours or periods of high demand, can make ride-sharing an expensive option, especially for frequent medical appointments. The limited presence of these services negatively impacts the overall health score.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with mobility limitations or medical needs that require assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, including companies that provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) and ambulance services. However, these services can be costly, and availability may be limited, particularly for non-emergency situations. The reliance on medical transport, while essential for some, also adds to the overall cost of healthcare and can create logistical challenges.

The availability and affordability of medical transport services are crucial for ensuring **healthcare access** for those with specific needs. However, the reliance on these services, coupled with their associated costs, presents a significant challenge to the overall health score.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 43553 is moderate, but with significant limitations. The primary advantage is the relatively short drive to local healthcare providers in Archbold. However, the reliance on personal vehicles, the lack of public transit, and the limited availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services create significant barriers to healthcare access, especially for vulnerable populations. The distance to more specialized care in larger cities like Defiance and Toledo further compounds these challenges.

For individuals considering **moving to Pettisville**, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. The absence of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing or medical transport services should be carefully considered.

To improve the overall health score, several interventions could be implemented. Investing in a more accessible and affordable public transportation system, including fixed-route bus services or expanded demand-response services, would significantly enhance **healthcare access**. Partnering with ride-sharing companies to offer subsidized rides for medical appointments could also improve affordability. Furthermore, expanding the availability and affordability of medical transport services would benefit those with specific needs.

Finally, promoting telehealth services and remote monitoring programs could help reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, particularly for chronic conditions. This would alleviate some of the **transportation** burdens and improve **healthcare access** for residents of Pettisville. These improvements would make **moving to Pettisville** a more attractive prospect.