43567, Wauseon, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43567, Wauseon, Ohio is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

77.68 percent of residents in 43567 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.44 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Health Center with a distance of 1.77 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43567 (Wauseon, Ohio)

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which one can access medical services significantly impacts quality of life. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score" for residents of ZIP Code 43567 (Wauseon, Ohio), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities via various transportation methods. This information is particularly relevant for individuals contemplating **moving to Wauseon**, as it directly affects their **healthcare access** and overall health.

The score is derived from a comprehensive assessment of drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. We will explore these facets, providing a nuanced understanding of the transportation challenges and opportunities within this specific geographic area. The goal is to provide a clear picture for residents and prospective residents alike, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries of Healthcare Access**

For residents of Wauseon, the most common mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is by personal vehicle. The primary roadways influencing healthcare access are US-20A, US-6, and State Route 108. The proximity to these highways is a significant factor.

The Fulton County Health Center, a crucial healthcare provider, is conveniently located within Wauseon. Travel times to this facility are generally short, typically under 10 minutes for most residents. This immediate proximity contributes positively to the overall health score. The ease of reaching this vital resource is a significant advantage for those residing in 43567.

However, specialized care often necessitates travel to larger medical centers in nearby cities like Toledo, Ohio. Traveling to Toledo, approximately 45 miles east, involves navigating US-20A and I-75. Drive times to facilities such as ProMedica Toledo Hospital can vary significantly, typically ranging from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This longer travel time introduces potential challenges for patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or requiring urgent care.

Similarly, reaching facilities in Bryan, Ohio, a shorter distance to the west, can be accomplished via US-6 and State Route 15. These trips generally take around 30 minutes. The accessibility of these different facilities, each offering a unique set of specialities, is a critical factor in the overall health score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options within Wauseon and the surrounding Fulton County are limited. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is a critical factor in evaluating the overall health score, as it directly impacts **transportation** options for those who cannot drive.

Currently, there are no regularly scheduled bus routes that directly connect Wauseon to Toledo or other major healthcare hubs. The Fulton County Senior Center provides some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, but these are often limited in scope and require advance scheduling. This limited public transit infrastructure necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods.

The absence of widespread public transportation, including the lack of ADA-compliant features on any existing routes, significantly lowers the overall health score for individuals without access to personal vehicles. This lack of infrastructure creates a barrier to **healthcare access** for a vulnerable segment of the population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Wauseon, but their availability can be inconsistent. The frequency of service, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, may be limited. This reliance on ride-sharing introduces an element of uncertainty, as patients may face delays or cancellations.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for patients with specific needs. Several companies provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) in the area. These services typically involve door-to-door transportation to and from medical appointments.

Companies like First Transit and CareRide are examples of NEMT providers that serve the region. These services often require pre-booking and may have specific eligibility requirements, such as being a Medicaid recipient or having a documented medical need. While these services provide a valuable resource, their availability and cost can be a barrier for some individuals.

The overall health score benefits from the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services. However, the limited frequency of ride-sharing and the potential restrictions on medical transport services contribute to a less than ideal situation.

**Overall Health Score: A Synthesis**

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 43567 is moderately favorable, with areas of strength and weakness. The proximity of the Fulton County Health Center is a significant positive, providing convenient access to essential medical services. However, the limited public transit options, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the potential limitations of medical transport services present challenges.

The longer drive times to specialized medical facilities in Toledo and Bryan also impact the score, particularly for those requiring frequent or urgent care. The overall score suggests that while healthcare is accessible, the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged transportation creates potential barriers for some residents.

**Recommendations**

To improve the overall health score and enhance **healthcare access** for residents of 43567, several recommendations are in order. Expanding public transit options, including the implementation of regular bus routes to Toledo and other healthcare hubs, would significantly benefit individuals without personal vehicles.

Increasing the availability and reliability of ride-sharing services, potentially through incentives or partnerships with local healthcare providers, could also improve access. Promoting awareness of available medical transport services and streamlining the application process for those services would further enhance accessibility.

Finally, continued efforts to attract and retain healthcare professionals within Wauseon and the surrounding areas would reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for specialized care. These combined efforts would foster a healthier community.

This analysis underscores the importance of considering transportation when evaluating **moving to Wauseon**. While the area offers a variety of healthcare options, the ease with which residents can access these services is influenced by their **transportation** choices. By addressing the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities, the community can improve the overall health score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.