44889, Wakeman, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 44889, Wakeman, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

51.48 percent of residents in 44889 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.90 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Allen Hospital with a distance of 9.57 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44889 (Wakeman, Ohio)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access essential services, and chief among these is healthcare. This report provides an "Overall Health Score" assessment for residents of Wakeman, Ohio (ZIP Code 44889), focusing on the accessibility of healthcare facilities. We will analyze the transportation infrastructure, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This information is crucial for individuals and families considering **moving to Wakeman**, offering a realistic perspective on **healthcare access** within the community.

The foundation of any health assessment is understanding the geographical context. Wakeman, a rural community in Erie County, Ohio, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical facilities are located in surrounding towns and cities, necessitating a reliance on personal vehicles and, to a lesser extent, alternative transportation methods. The success of **transportation** options is therefore paramount.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in Wakeman is by personal vehicle. The drive times to various medical facilities are highly dependent on traffic conditions and the specific destination. The most direct route to a major hospital, Fisher-Titus Medical Center in Norwalk, typically involves traveling east on US-20. This journey usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

For more specialized care, residents might need to travel to larger medical centers in Sandusky or Oberlin. The drive to Firelands Regional Medical Center in Sandusky, a facility offering a wider range of services, involves navigating US-250 North and typically takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Accessing the Cleveland Clinic in Oberlin requires traveling on State Route 20 West, with an estimated drive time of 30 to 45 minutes.

The condition of the roadways, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact these drive times. Residents should be prepared for potential delays during winter months due to snow and ice. Routine maintenance and construction projects on these highways can also create unexpected delays.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public transportation options in Wakeman are limited. The Erie County Transit (ECT) offers a demand-response service, meaning rides are scheduled in advance. This service, while available, may not be ideal for urgent medical needs. The ECT operates within Erie County and can provide transportation to medical appointments within the county, including Norwalk and Sandusky.

The ECT buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the scheduling process and potential travel times associated with demand-response services can be a significant consideration. Public transit is a crucial part of **healthcare access** for those without other options.

The frequency of service and the need for advance booking make public transit less convenient for spontaneous medical visits. Residents relying on public transportation should plan ahead and factor in potential delays. The lack of fixed-route bus service within Wakeman itself necessitates travel to a designated pick-up location.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Wakeman area, although their availability may be less consistent compared to larger metropolitan areas. The cost and availability of ride-sharing can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Residents should check the apps for current pricing and estimated wait times.

For individuals requiring specialized medical transport, several options are available. Local ambulance services provide emergency medical transport to hospitals. Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, such as those offered by private companies, can be arranged for scheduled appointments. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves.

Medical transport services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance, the type of transport needed, and the insurance coverage of the patient.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

Based on the analysis of transportation options, the "Overall Health Score" for Wakeman residents reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity of several hospitals and medical facilities provides reasonable **healthcare access**, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit pose challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers alternative options, but these services may not always be readily accessible or affordable. The rural nature of the community and the potential for inclement weather to impact travel times add to the complexities of accessing healthcare.

For individuals **moving to Wakeman**, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial. Careful consideration should be given to the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of transportation options, and the potential for unforeseen delays. Planning for medical needs, including establishing relationships with local healthcare providers and arranging transportation in advance, is essential.

The "Overall Health Score" for Wakeman, therefore, is moderate. While the community offers access to necessary healthcare services, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit necessitate careful planning and awareness of potential transportation challenges. The health of the community depends on the ability to overcome these challenges and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.