45807, Lima, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45807, Lima, Ohio is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

80.43 percent of residents in 45807 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health-St Rita's Medical Center with a distance of 3.97 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Lima, Ohio (ZIP Code 45807)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Lima, Ohio's 45807 ZIP code, requires a comprehensive understanding of **transportation** options and their impact on **healthcare access**. This analysis delves into the realities of commuting to medical facilities, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering **moving to Lima**, as they directly influence the ability to receive timely and appropriate medical care.

Lima, a city steeped in Midwestern charm, presents a unique challenge when evaluating healthcare accessibility. The city's layout and the dispersed nature of medical facilities necessitate a careful examination of the **transportation** infrastructure. This assessment considers both the geographical distances and the practical realities of navigating the city's roads and public transit.

### Roadways and Drive Times: The Primary Arteries

The primary mode of **transportation** for healthcare access in 45807 is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. Several major roadways serve as lifelines to medical facilities. Interstate 75 (I-75), a crucial north-south artery, offers relatively swift access to larger hospitals and specialized clinics, although traffic congestion during peak hours can impact drive times.

State Route 309, a vital east-west corridor, provides access to various medical offices and urgent care centers. The speed limits and traffic flow on this route are generally conducive to timely arrivals, but local traffic lights can introduce delays. Additionally, smaller local roads, such as Elida Road and Shawnee Road, serve as connectors to various medical providers, but their reliance on traffic signals and local traffic can extend travel times.

Drive times to major healthcare providers within the 45807 ZIP code vary depending on the destination and the time of day. A trip to Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center, a major regional hospital, can take approximately 10-15 minutes from most locations within the ZIP code, assuming moderate traffic conditions. Smaller clinics and urgent care facilities are generally accessible within a 5-10 minute drive. However, during rush hour, these times can easily double, creating potential barriers to timely healthcare.

### Public Transit: A Limited Option

The availability of public transit in Lima, Ohio, offers a less robust solution for **healthcare access**. The Allen County Regional Transit Authority (ACRTA) operates a bus system, providing a limited network of routes throughout the city. While ACRTA aims to serve the community, its routes and schedules may not fully accommodate the diverse needs of residents seeking medical care.

ACRTA offers several routes that pass through the 45807 ZIP code, including routes that connect to Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center and other medical facilities. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially creating significant wait times and making it challenging to schedule medical appointments.

Furthermore, the accessibility of ACRTA's buses for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public transit systems provide accessible services. ACRTA is committed to providing ADA-compliant buses, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can access their services. However, the overall limited reach of the bus system and the potential for long travel times can still pose challenges for some individuals.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplemental Solutions

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services are available in Lima, Ohio, providing on-demand **transportation** to medical appointments. While ride-sharing can be a convenient option, especially for those without access to a car, the cost can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical visits.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for individuals with medical needs, provide another layer of support. These services often cater to individuals requiring assistance with mobility or those needing specialized equipment. Companies like American Medical Response (AMR) and other local providers offer non-emergency medical **transportation** (NEMT) services. These services typically require pre-booking and can be a more expensive option compared to ride-sharing or public transit. However, they offer a crucial service for individuals who cannot utilize other forms of **transportation**.

### Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Challenge

The overall health score for commuting to healthcare in 45807 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. While drive times to major medical facilities are generally reasonable, the reliance on personal vehicles creates challenges for those without access to a car. The limited public transit options and the cost of ride-sharing services further complicate **healthcare access** for some residents.

The availability of medical transport services provides a critical safety net for individuals with specific needs, but the cost and pre-booking requirements can be barriers. The overall score is a reflection of the balance between these factors.

### Implications for Moving to Lima

For individuals considering **moving to Lima**, the **transportation** landscape is a crucial consideration. Potential residents should carefully evaluate their **transportation** needs and assess the availability of healthcare services within their chosen location. Those reliant on public transit or with limited mobility should thoroughly investigate the ACRTA routes and schedules. Understanding the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services is equally important.

The overall health score for 45807, considering **healthcare access**, is moderate. While the presence of major medical facilities is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit create challenges. Careful planning and a proactive approach to **transportation** are essential for ensuring timely and convenient access to medical care for residents of this ZIP code.