43619, Northwood, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43619, Northwood, Ohio is 75 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.98 percent of residents in 43619 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 4.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bay Park Community Hospital with a distance of 1.30 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43619

This assessment provides a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access within ZIP Code 43619, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. Understanding the ease and efficiency of reaching medical facilities is paramount to the well-being of residents, particularly those considering moving to Northwood, Ohio. This analysis examines drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, offering a detailed picture of the healthcare landscape.

ZIP Code 43619, encompassing the city of Northwood and surrounding areas, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. Proximity to Toledo, a major metropolitan center, provides access to a wide range of healthcare providers. However, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transportation can impact healthcare access for certain demographics. This write-up aims to illuminate these factors, providing a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare transportation infrastructure.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary roadways serving ZIP Code 43619 are vital for healthcare access. Interstate 75 (I-75) is the major north-south artery, offering relatively quick access to hospitals and medical centers in Toledo. Traveling south on I-75, residents can reach ProMedica Toledo Hospital within approximately 15-20 minutes, assuming normal traffic conditions. The drive to Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center, also located in Toledo, takes a similar amount of time.

However, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact these drive times. Accidents or construction on I-75 can lead to substantial delays, making timely access to emergency care a concern. Alternate routes, such as Woodville Road and Oregon Road, offer potential detours, but these roads often experience their own traffic challenges, particularly during rush hour.

For residents needing to travel east or west, State Route 20 (Woodville Road) and State Route 199 provide essential connections. While these routes are generally less congested than I-75, they are still subject to traffic fluctuations and can add travel time to healthcare appointments. The condition of these roadways, including potholes and general maintenance, can also affect the safety and comfort of the commute.

**Public Transit Options**

The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides public transportation services in the area. However, the availability of public transit within ZIP Code 43619 is limited compared to the city of Toledo. Several TARTA routes serve the area, but frequency and coverage are often restricted.

Route 20, for instance, travels along Woodville Road, offering a connection to downtown Toledo and access to several healthcare facilities. However, the frequency of this route, especially on weekends and evenings, may not be sufficient for all healthcare needs. Residents might face significant wait times between buses, potentially disrupting their schedules.

TARTA’s accessibility features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating, are crucial for individuals with disabilities. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance of TARTA vehicles ensures that public transit is an option for a wider range of residents. However, the overall effectiveness of public transit in 43619 is limited by the geographical reach and the availability of accessible routes.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, provide an alternative transportation option. Their availability in the 43619 area is generally good, offering on-demand transportation to healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some residents, particularly those with limited incomes or frequent medical appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients with mobility limitations or medical needs, also play a role. Companies like CareRide and First Transit provide specialized transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. These services are particularly important for individuals who cannot drive themselves or use public transit.

The availability of medical transport services can vary depending on the specific needs of the patient and the type of insurance coverage. Coordinating these services requires advance planning and can sometimes involve navigating complex insurance procedures.

**Overall Health Score Considerations**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 43619 is influenced by the interplay of these transportation factors. While the proximity to Toledo offers a wide range of healthcare providers, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing create potential barriers.

Residents who own cars and can drive without difficulty have the most convenient access to healthcare. However, those who rely on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transport may face greater challenges. The availability of accessible transportation options is crucial for individuals with disabilities and those with mobility limitations.

The efficiency of the transportation infrastructure also affects the 'Overall Health Score'. Traffic congestion on I-75 and other roadways can increase travel times and potentially delay access to emergency care. The frequency and coverage of public transit routes directly impact the ability of residents to reach medical appointments.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in 43619, several initiatives could be considered. Enhancing the frequency and coverage of TARTA routes, particularly during off-peak hours and on weekends, would increase accessibility for residents. Promoting the use of ride-sharing services through subsidies or partnerships with healthcare providers could help reduce transportation costs.

Investing in road infrastructure improvements, such as widening I-75 and improving traffic flow, would reduce travel times and improve safety. Expanding the availability of medical transport services, particularly for individuals with limited incomes or those lacking insurance coverage, is also essential.

**Conclusion**

The 'Overall Health Score' for healthcare access in ZIP Code 43619 is a multifaceted assessment. While the proximity to Toledo provides access to a wide range of healthcare providers, the transportation landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing create potential barriers for some residents.

Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering moving to Northwood or residing in the area. By evaluating the availability, affordability, and efficiency of various transportation options, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare access. Continued efforts to improve the transportation infrastructure and expand access to healthcare services will ultimately enhance the overall health and well-being of the community.