43754, Lewisville, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 43754, Lewisville, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.04 percent of residents in 43754 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 14.51 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43754 (Lewisville, Ohio)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 43754, encompassing Lewisville, Ohio, is significantly influenced by the accessibility of healthcare services. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which individuals can access necessary medical care. We'll delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture for current and prospective residents considering moving to Lewisville.

Lewisville, a small, rural community, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The sparse population and geographical limitations necessitate a thorough understanding of available transportation options. This analysis aims to provide a clear, concise assessment of the existing infrastructure and services, impacting the overall health score for residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Lewisville is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The area is characterized by winding rural roads and a reliance on the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) for maintaining the infrastructure.

Traveling from Lewisville to the nearest significant medical facilities involves navigating a network of roadways. The primary route often involves taking **Ohio State Route 7 (SR-7)**, a north-south arterial road that connects Lewisville to larger towns and cities. Depending on the destination, drivers might then utilize **Ohio State Route 26 (SR-26)**, which intersects with SR-7. This route offers a more direct path to some medical facilities, but can be subject to delays due to its rural nature.

For those seeking specialized care, the journey often extends to larger regional centers. This necessitates traveling further, potentially utilizing **Interstate 77 (I-77)**, which offers a faster, more direct route to cities like Marietta or Cambridge. However, this can increase travel time and associated costs, impacting the overall health score.

Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and traffic conditions. Local clinics and urgent care facilities might be accessible within a 15-30 minute drive. However, accessing specialist care or hospitals in larger cities could involve a commute of 45 minutes to an hour or more. These longer drive times can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those experiencing medical emergencies.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in Lewisville are limited, reflecting the area's rural character. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without personal vehicles.

Currently, there are no fixed-route bus services operating directly within Lewisville. The nearest public transportation options are often located in neighboring towns and cities, such as Marietta or Cambridge. These services are typically provided by regional transit authorities and may involve multiple transfers, significantly increasing travel time and complexity.

Furthermore, the availability of public transit may be restricted by operational hours and frequency of service. This can pose challenges for individuals needing to access healthcare during off-peak hours or on weekends. The lack of accessible public transportation options disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

**ADA Accessibility and Considerations**

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transit systems provide accessible services for individuals with disabilities. However, the implementation of ADA-compliant features can be challenging in rural areas with limited resources.

While regional transit authorities are required to provide accessible vehicles and services, the availability of these features may be limited in certain areas. Individuals with mobility impairments may encounter difficulties accessing bus stops or navigating transfer points. The lack of accessible transportation options can further exacerbate healthcare access disparities.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Services**

The availability of ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, in Lewisville is limited. The sparse population and geographical constraints make it challenging for ride-share companies to establish a consistent presence. This reliance on ride-sharing can be unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services, such as ambulances and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering services to transport patients to and from medical appointments.

These services typically require advance booking and may involve specific eligibility criteria. The cost of medical transport can be a significant financial burden, especially for individuals with limited insurance coverage. The availability of these services can be essential for those unable to drive themselves or utilize public transportation.

**Medical Transport Brands**

Several medical transport brands serve the 43754 ZIP code, each with its own operational area and service offerings. Understanding the specific providers and their capabilities is crucial for residents.

**1. MedStar Ambulance Service:** This is a primary provider of emergency medical services in the region, offering both emergency and non-emergency transport options. Their presence is crucial for immediate medical needs.

**2. First Response Ambulance:** Another key player in the emergency medical services, providing similar services to MedStar, ensuring comprehensive coverage for the community.

**3. Private NEMT Providers:** Various smaller, private companies offer non-emergency medical transportation. These companies often specialize in transporting patients to routine appointments, offering a more cost-effective solution for non-critical healthcare needs.

**Overall Health Score Implications**

The transportation landscape in Lewisville significantly impacts the overall health score for residents. The limited public transit options, reliance on personal vehicles, and the challenges associated with ride-share and medical transport services create barriers to healthcare access.

The longer drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly for specialized care, can delay or prevent timely medical attention. The lack of accessible transportation options disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, leading to healthcare disparities.

For individuals considering moving to Lewisville, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and assess the feasibility of accessing necessary medical services.

Improving the overall health score in Lewisville requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes exploring options to expand public transit, supporting the availability of ride-share services, and ensuring the accessibility and affordability of medical transport. Furthermore, promoting telehealth services and community-based healthcare initiatives can help mitigate the challenges associated with geographical limitations.

Ultimately, a robust and accessible transportation infrastructure is essential for ensuring that all residents of Lewisville have equal access to quality healthcare. This is a critical factor in improving the overall health score and fostering a healthy and thriving community.