43565, Tontogany, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43565, Tontogany, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.52 percent of residents in 43565 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 5.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43565 (Tontogany, Ohio)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Tontogany, Ohio (ZIP Code 43565), requires a deep dive into the accessibility of healthcare services. This involves scrutinizing the available transportation options and their impact on the ability to reach medical facilities. The score reflects the ease or difficulty of accessing essential healthcare, considering factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. This evaluation is crucial for anyone contemplating moving to Tontogany, offering a realistic picture of their healthcare access.

The primary mode of transportation for healthcare access in Tontogany is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The area is predominantly rural, and the infrastructure reflects this. Residents rely heavily on their cars for navigating the region. Drive times to healthcare facilities significantly influence the overall health score. The closest hospitals are in Bowling Green, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via **State Route 64** and **Interstate 75**. These highways are generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor, particularly during peak hours. Further, the drive to Toledo, which has more specialized care, takes about 30-45 minutes, primarily using **Interstate 75** and **U.S. Route 24**. This longer commute time can be a deterrent for those needing frequent or urgent care.

Public transportation options are limited in Tontogany and the surrounding areas. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) offers a demand-response transit service, which provides transportation to medical appointments. However, this service requires advance booking and may not be suitable for urgent situations. There are no fixed-route public transit options, such as buses, directly serving Tontogany. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the health score, particularly for individuals who cannot drive, such as the elderly, those with disabilities, or those without access to a vehicle. The absence of accessible public transit also poses a challenge for those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.

Ride-sharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can vary. While these services offer a potential solution for healthcare transportation, their cost can be a barrier for some. Furthermore, the wait times for a ride-share vehicle, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, might be excessive, potentially delaying access to medical care. The fluctuating nature of ride-share availability and pricing further complicates the healthcare access equation.

Medical transportation services are another critical component of the overall health score. Several companies provide specialized transport for patients needing assistance. These services, typically offered by ambulance companies or private medical transport providers, are essential for individuals who require non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). These services are often pre-booked, and the cost can vary based on distance and the level of care required. The availability and cost of these specialized services play a vital role in ensuring that individuals with mobility issues or other health concerns can reach their medical appointments.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features of any available public transit or ride-sharing options are crucial. Ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a fundamental aspect of healthcare access. The lack of accessible public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services regarding ADA compliance negatively impact the health score. The availability of accessible vehicles and the training of drivers in assisting individuals with disabilities are critical considerations.

The overall health score for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43565 is, therefore, moderately challenging. While residents can access healthcare facilities through personal vehicles and ride-sharing services, the lack of robust public transit, the potential cost of ride-sharing, and the reliance on driving contribute to the challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides an essential safety net for those with mobility limitations, but the cost and booking requirements must be considered.

The health score is further influenced by the distance to specialized care facilities. While basic healthcare is accessible within a reasonable driving distance, access to specialized medical services often requires a longer commute. This can be particularly challenging for individuals with chronic conditions or those needing frequent specialist appointments. The need for longer commutes can also increase the risk of delays in accessing care, especially during emergencies.

The availability of healthcare providers within the community also influences the overall health score. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare professionals within or near Tontogany can significantly improve access to care. The proximity of these providers reduces the need for long commutes and makes it easier for residents to receive timely and appropriate medical attention. The lack of local healthcare providers can, conversely, lower the health score, making it harder to receive healthcare.

The socioeconomic factors within the community also play a role in the overall health score. Income levels, insurance coverage, and access to social support services can all affect an individual's ability to access and afford healthcare. Residents with lower incomes may struggle to afford transportation costs, ride-sharing fees, or medical transportation services. The availability of financial assistance programs and social support services can help mitigate these challenges and improve the health score.

In conclusion, the overall health score for healthcare access in Tontogany (ZIP Code 43565) is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation, the limitations of public transit, the potential cost of ride-sharing, and the reliance on longer commutes to specialized care facilities pose challenges. The availability of medical transportation services provides a crucial safety net, but the cost and booking requirements must be carefully considered. For those considering moving to Tontogany, a realistic assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation options is essential. The community's health score can be improved through initiatives to enhance public transit, promote ride-sharing affordability, and increase the availability of local healthcare providers. Understanding these factors is key to ensuring that all residents of Tontogany have equitable access to the healthcare they need.