44853, New Riegel, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44853, New Riegel, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.03 percent of residents in 44853 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Tiffin Hospital with a distance of 6.20 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44853 (New Riegel, Ohio)

Embarking on a journey to assess the overall health score for healthcare access in New Riegel, Ohio (ZIP Code 44853) demands a deep dive into the multifaceted world of transportation. The ability to reach medical facilities, a critical component of well-being, hinges on the efficiency and availability of various transportation options. For those contemplating moving to New Riegel, understanding this landscape is paramount. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-share possibilities, and medical transport services, culminating in a comprehensive health score evaluation.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in New Riegel is the reliance on personal vehicles. The town itself is small, nestled in Seneca County, and lacks significant public transit infrastructure. This reality underscores the importance of understanding drive times to surrounding healthcare providers. Residents typically utilize local roads such as Township Road 118, Township Road 109, and State Route 587 to navigate the area.

To reach the closest major healthcare hub, Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, residents would likely travel along State Route 587, connecting to State Route 18, and then onto US Route 224. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This relatively short commute provides a reasonable level of healthcare access for urgent and routine medical needs. However, the time can fluctuate depending on traffic, weather, and the specific location within New Riegel.

For specialized care, residents often need to venture further. The drive to ProMedica Memorial Hospital in Fremont, Ohio, requires a longer journey, typically around 30 to 40 minutes. This route involves navigating State Route 587, connecting to US Route 20, and then following signs to Fremont. This extended travel time can present challenges, particularly during emergencies or for individuals with mobility limitations.

Public transportation options within and around New Riegel are extremely limited. Seneca County does not have a comprehensive public bus system that services the town. This lack of public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, those unable to drive, or those who prefer not to drive. This deficiency necessitates reliance on alternative transportation methods.

While traditional public transit is absent, the availability of ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, could offer a potential solution. However, the presence of these services in New Riegel and the surrounding rural areas is inconsistent. Availability depends on driver density and demand, and wait times can be unpredictable. This makes ride-sharing a less reliable option for urgent medical needs or scheduled appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments, play a crucial role in bridging the healthcare access gap. Several companies offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the region. These services typically require advance booking and cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves.

One notable provider is Seneca County Transportation, which offers transportation for medical appointments and other essential services. These services are often subsidized or provided through Medicaid or other assistance programs, making them more accessible to low-income individuals. However, availability and scheduling can still be a constraint, and advance planning is essential.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of transportation options in New Riegel is a critical consideration. While ride-sharing services are often required to accommodate passengers with disabilities, the availability of accessible vehicles can be limited. Medical transport services are generally equipped with accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can access healthcare.

Given the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options, the overall health score for healthcare access in New Riegel, Ohio (ZIP Code 44853) is moderately favorable. The relatively short drive to Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital provides a reasonable level of access for routine care. However, the lack of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services, and the longer travel times to specialized care facilities pose challenges.

The score is further influenced by the availability of medical transport services, which offer a crucial lifeline for individuals with mobility limitations. The accessibility of these services and the ADA compliance of available transportation options are vital factors.

For those contemplating moving to New Riegel, a careful assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Individuals without personal vehicles or with mobility limitations should prioritize researching medical transport options and understanding their scheduling processes.

The overall health score is a nuanced assessment, considering the interplay of transportation infrastructure, service availability, and individual needs. While New Riegel offers a reasonable level of healthcare access, potential residents must carefully evaluate the transportation landscape to ensure they can effectively meet their healthcare needs. The ability to navigate the transportation system is inextricably linked to the overall health and well-being of the community.