44861, Old Fort, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44861, Old Fort, Ohio is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

82.05 percent of residents in 44861 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 6.91 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44861 (Old Fort, Ohio)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access healthcare. For residents of Old Fort, Ohio (ZIP Code 44861), this access is significantly impacted by the available transportation options. This write-up provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment, analyzing the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach medical facilities, ultimately influencing their well-being. We will delve into drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, providing a comprehensive picture for anyone considering moving to Old Fort and seeking to understand the realities of healthcare access.

The primary factor influencing healthcare access in Old Fort is the reliance on personal vehicles. The area, characterized by its rural setting, necessitates driving to reach most medical providers. The most direct route to larger hospitals and specialized care often involves navigating state routes and highways. The drive to the nearest major healthcare hub, Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes, utilizing **State Route 53** and then **US-224**. This relatively short commute offers a good starting point for the health score, indicating reasonable access for those with personal vehicles. However, this access is predicated on car ownership and the ability to drive.

Further afield, the Cleveland Clinic Tiffin Hospital, another critical healthcare resource, is also accessible, requiring a drive of approximately 25 to 30 minutes, again primarily via **State Route 53** and **US-224**. The drive to larger regional hospitals in Fremont, such as ProMedica Memorial Hospital, requires a journey of roughly 30 to 40 minutes, utilizing **State Route 53** and **US-20**. These longer drive times begin to detract from the overall health score, particularly for those with mobility limitations or those who may face challenges driving.

Public transportation options are limited in Old Fort and the surrounding area, significantly affecting the health score. The lack of robust public transit presents a considerable barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. The Tiffin-Seneca County Public Transportation system may offer limited routes that serve some areas, but the frequency and coverage may not adequately address the needs of all residents. Information about the specific routes, including ADA accessibility features, would be crucial to providing a more accurate assessment of this element of the health score. This is an area that needs significant improvement to enhance the overall health of the community.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and availability can be variable, especially in a rural environment. While these services can provide a valuable alternative to driving, their cost and potential for delays must be considered. The overall health score is negatively impacted by the uncertainty of these services. Residents may find themselves stranded, unable to access medical care when needed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to address the needs of individuals with mobility limitations, are essential for improving the health score. Ambulance services are available for emergency situations, but the availability of non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) is crucial for routine appointments and follow-up care. Knowing the specific providers operating in the area, their coverage area, and their ability to accommodate various needs (wheelchair accessibility, stretcher transport) is vital for a comprehensive health score. Identifying these services and their accessibility is critical.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Old Fort (ZIP Code 44861) is moderate. The presence of nearby hospitals and the relatively short drive times for those with personal vehicles are positive factors. However, the limitations of public transportation, the variable reliability of ride-sharing services, and the need for more information on medical transport options detract from the score. The health score is also negatively impacted by the reliance on personal vehicles, which can create barriers for those without access to a car or the ability to drive.

For those considering moving to Old Fort, a thorough understanding of these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and their ability to meet those needs given the available transportation options. Individuals with chronic health conditions or mobility limitations should give particular consideration to the availability and reliability of medical transport services.

Improving the overall health score for Old Fort requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transportation, expanding ride-sharing services, and increasing the availability of medical transport options are essential steps. Encouraging community partnerships to address transportation gaps and promoting awareness of existing resources are also crucial. By addressing these challenges, Old Fort can improve the health and well-being of its residents and become a more attractive place to live.