44820, Bucyrus, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44820, Bucyrus, Ohio is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.18 percent of residents in 44820 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bucyrus Community Hospital with a distance of 0.72 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Bucyrus, Ohio (ZIP Code 44820)

The health and well-being of a community are intrinsically linked to its ability to access healthcare. This analysis, focusing on ZIP Code 44820, Bucyrus, Ohio, provides an "Overall Health Score" by evaluating the ease of commuting to healthcare facilities. This score considers various transportation modes, including personal vehicles, public transit, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, offering a comprehensive perspective for residents and those considering **moving to Bucyrus**.

The score is not a numerical value but a qualitative assessment, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and potential challenges in accessing healthcare within and around the area. It considers the time, cost, and convenience of each transportation option, recognizing that these factors significantly impact healthcare **access**.

**Personal Vehicle: The Dominant Mode**

For residents of Bucyrus, the personal vehicle remains the most common mode of **transportation** for healthcare appointments. The primary arteries for travel are US Route 30, a major east-west thoroughfare, and US Route 23, running north-south. Ohio State Route 4, Ohio State Route 19, and Ohio State Route 98 provide additional routes, connecting Bucyrus to surrounding communities and healthcare providers.

Drive times to local healthcare facilities are generally manageable. The Bucyrus Community Hospital, a crucial healthcare provider, is easily accessible from most residential areas within the zip code. Travel times are typically under 15 minutes, minimizing the stress and inconvenience associated with healthcare appointments. However, accessing specialized care or services outside of Bucyrus, such as those in Mansfield or Marion, requires longer drives.

Traveling east on US Route 30 to Mansfield, home to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital, can take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Similarly, a southward journey on US Route 23 to Marion General Hospital in Marion can take a similar amount of time. These longer commutes increase the potential for delays and can be particularly challenging for individuals with mobility limitations or those needing urgent care.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transit options in Bucyrus are limited, which significantly impacts the Overall Health Score. Crawford County Public Transit offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service provides door-to-door transportation within Crawford County, including Bucyrus, for a nominal fee. However, the limited operating hours and the need for pre-booking can pose challenges for those with unpredictable healthcare needs or those requiring immediate medical attention.

The availability of public transit is a critical factor in **healthcare access** for individuals who cannot drive, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The current system, while offering a vital service, lacks the frequency and flexibility to fully meet the community's healthcare transportation needs. The absence of fixed-route buses or dedicated routes to major healthcare facilities further compounds these limitations.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration. Crawford County Public Transit vehicles are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. However, the reliance on advance booking and the potential for longer wait times can still present challenges for some users.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Bucyrus, offering an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in areas with lower population density. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially those with frequent healthcare appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport individuals to and from medical appointments, provide a more specialized option. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance during travel. Local ambulance services and private medical transportation companies offer these services in Bucyrus and the surrounding areas.

The cost of medical transport can be higher than other transportation options, and insurance coverage varies. However, these services provide a valuable lifeline for those who cannot drive or utilize other forms of transportation. The availability and affordability of these services are crucial for ensuring equitable **healthcare access** for all residents.

**Healthcare Provider Proximity and Availability**

The presence of the Bucyrus Community Hospital within ZIP Code 44820 significantly enhances the Overall Health Score. The hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient care, and outpatient clinics. The proximity of this facility reduces travel times for many residents, ensuring quicker access to medical attention in emergencies and for routine appointments.

The availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and other healthcare providers within the community also contributes to the score. The presence of these providers reduces the need for residents to travel long distances for routine care, promoting preventative healthcare and early intervention. The diversity of healthcare services available, including mental health services, dental care, and vision care, further enhances the community's overall health profile.

**Challenges and Considerations**

Despite the presence of local healthcare facilities, several challenges impact the Overall Health Score. The limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles create barriers for those without access to a car or those unable to drive. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services also require consideration.

The distance to specialized care facilities outside of Bucyrus presents another challenge. Residents needing specialized treatment, such as advanced cardiac care or cancer treatment, must travel to larger cities like Mansfield or Marion, increasing travel times and potentially impacting the timeliness of care.

**Overall Health Score Summary**

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in ZIP Code 44820 is moderate. The presence of the Bucyrus Community Hospital and a network of local healthcare providers enhances the score. However, the limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for longer travel times to specialized care facilities create challenges.

**Recommendations**

To improve the Overall Health Score, several recommendations are suggested. Expanding public transit options, including fixed-route buses or dedicated routes to healthcare facilities, would significantly improve **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles. Increasing the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services would also be beneficial.

Investing in community outreach programs to educate residents about available transportation options and healthcare resources is crucial. Promoting preventative healthcare and early intervention through accessible and affordable services would also improve the community's overall health profile.

For those considering **moving to Bucyrus**, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and the available healthcare resources is essential. While the community offers a good foundation for healthcare access, prospective residents should carefully consider their transportation needs and the potential for longer commutes to specialized care facilities. By addressing these challenges and implementing these recommendations, Bucyrus can strive to create a healthier and more accessible community for all its residents.