44827, Crestline, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44827, Crestline, Ohio is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.57 percent of residents in 44827 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth Shelby Hospital with a distance of 7.41 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Crestline, OH (ZIP Code 44827)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Crestline, Ohio (ZIP Code 44827) necessitates a deep dive into healthcare access, with a particular focus on transportation options. This analysis considers the crucial link between available transportation and the ability to reach vital medical services. Residents' well-being is inextricably tied to their capacity to access care, and this access hinges significantly on the efficiency and availability of transportation choices. For those contemplating moving to Crestline, understanding these factors is paramount.

Crestline, a small community nestled in Crawford County, presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to healthcare access. The town’s relative isolation, coupled with its modest public transportation infrastructure, necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of the available transportation modalities. The primary focus will be on drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport, all influencing the overall health score for Crestline residents.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The most prevalent mode of transportation in Crestline is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode is heavily influenced by the road network and the distances to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries connecting Crestline to healthcare providers are US Route 30, Ohio State Route 61, and Ohio State Route 96. These roadways are critical for accessing hospitals, clinics, and specialist offices.

For routine appointments and general medical needs, the closest facilities are often located in Bucyrus, approximately a 10-15 minute drive via Ohio State Route 61. Bucyrus Community Hospital provides a range of services, making it a convenient option for many Crestline residents. However, for specialized care or emergency situations, individuals may need to travel further.

Mansfield, roughly a 30-45 minute drive via US Route 30, offers a more comprehensive array of healthcare options. OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital and the numerous specialist practices located in Mansfield provide advanced medical services. The journey along US Route 30, while generally efficient, can be subject to traffic delays, especially during peak hours.

For those requiring highly specialized care, the journey to Columbus, approximately a 1.5-2 hour drive via US Route 30 and I-71, becomes necessary. This longer drive underscores the importance of reliable transportation and the potential challenges faced by individuals with limited mobility or those requiring frequent medical attention. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times and the safety of the journey.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation options in Crestline are limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Crawford County Council on Aging provides some transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, these services are often demand-responsive, meaning they require advance booking and may have limited availability.

The lack of a robust public transit system highlights the transportation challenges faced by vulnerable populations. Individuals who are unable to drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints may struggle to reach healthcare facilities. The absence of frequent and reliable bus routes or other public transit options exacerbates this issue.

While the Crawford County Council on Aging aims to address some of these needs, the scope of their services may not fully meet the demand. The availability of accessible vehicles, with features like wheelchair lifts and ramps, is crucial for ensuring that individuals with disabilities can access medical appointments. The lack of fixed-route bus services, with clearly defined schedules and routes, further restricts healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as alternative transportation options in many areas. However, their availability in Crestline is limited. The presence of these services is dependent on driver availability, which can be sporadic in less populated areas. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments may be unreliable, especially during off-peak hours or in emergencies.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier for some individuals.

Several medical transport providers operate in the region, serving Crestline and the surrounding areas. These services cater to patients with varying mobility needs, offering a valuable resource for those unable to drive or utilize public transit. However, the availability and affordability of these services are critical factors in determining their impact on healthcare access.

**Impact on the Overall Health Score**

The overall health score for Crestline, OH (44827) is significantly influenced by the transportation infrastructure and the availability of healthcare access. The limitations in public transit, the potential for long drive times, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges.

The reliance on personal vehicles places a burden on individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources or mobility issues. The lack of readily available alternatives can lead to delayed or missed medical appointments, potentially impacting health outcomes. The distance to specialized medical facilities further compounds these challenges.

The presence of medical transport services and the efforts of the Crawford County Council on Aging mitigate some of these issues. However, the cost and availability of these services remain critical factors. A higher overall health score would be achieved with improved public transit options, increased ride-sharing availability, and greater affordability of medical transport services.

**Moving to Crestline: A Transportation Consideration**

For those considering moving to Crestline, the transportation landscape should be a key consideration. Assessing your personal transportation needs, including the frequency of medical appointments and the availability of reliable transportation, is essential. Individuals who are reliant on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully evaluate the available options.

The accessibility of healthcare services, the potential for long drive times, and the limitations of public transit can impact the overall quality of life. Researching the availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport providers is recommended. Understanding the transportation challenges and planning accordingly can help ensure that healthcare needs are met.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improvement**

Improving the overall health score for Crestline residents necessitates a multi-faceted approach. Enhancing public transit options, including fixed-route bus services and expanded demand-response services, is crucial. Promoting ride-sharing availability and ensuring the affordability of medical transport services are also vital.

Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as road maintenance and traffic management, can optimize drive times and enhance safety. Collaborating with healthcare providers to establish satellite clinics or telehealth services in Crestline can further improve healthcare access.

By addressing the transportation challenges and improving healthcare access, Crestline can create a healthier and more vibrant community. This requires a collective effort from local government, healthcare providers, transportation providers, and community organizations. The well-being of Crestline residents depends on it.