45808, Beaverdam, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45808, Beaverdam, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.57 percent of residents in 45808 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Hospital with a distance of 5.38 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45808 (Beaverdam, Ohio)

The overall health score for residents of ZIP code 45808, encompassing Beaverdam, Ohio, is intrinsically linked to their ability to access necessary healthcare services. This write-up delves into the complexities of transportation options within and surrounding this rural area, examining drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, all crucial elements influencing healthcare access and ultimately, the health and well-being of the community. For those considering moving to Beaverdam, this analysis provides a vital understanding of the practicalities of maintaining good health.

The geographic reality of Beaverdam, a small village nestled in Allen County, Ohio, dictates a reliance on personal vehicles for most transportation needs. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are State Route 309, which runs east-west, and Interstate 75, a major north-south thoroughfare. Drive times to healthcare facilities vary significantly depending on the destination and the time of day.

The closest immediate care facilities are located in Lima, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via State Route 309. This route offers a relatively straightforward commute, but traffic congestion during peak hours can extend travel times. For more specialized care, the drive to Lima's larger hospitals, such as Mercy Health – St. Rita's Medical Center, might take 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The presence of Interstate 75 provides an alternative route, potentially offering faster access, especially for those residing in the western portions of the ZIP code.

Public transportation options within and around 45808 are limited. The Allen County Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates within the county, but its routes and schedules are primarily designed to serve the city of Lima. There are no direct, regularly scheduled bus routes that specifically serve Beaverdam. Residents who rely on public transit would likely need to arrange for transportation to Lima, and then utilize the RTA’s services from there. This adds a significant layer of complexity and time to healthcare access, potentially impacting the overall health score.

Furthermore, the RTA’s accessibility features are a critical consideration. While the RTA strives to provide ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair accessibility on its buses, the limited route coverage in rural areas like Beaverdam presents a challenge for individuals with disabilities or mobility limitations. The lack of readily available public transit creates a significant barrier to healthcare access for a vulnerable population.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lima area, but their presence in Beaverdam is less consistent. Availability can fluctuate based on driver availability and demand. Residents may experience longer wait times or higher fares compared to urban areas. Relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments requires careful planning and consideration of potential delays, potentially contributing to stress and anxiety, which can negatively impact health.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive themselves. However, the availability of these services, and their associated costs, can vary. Residents should research and compare the options available in the area, considering factors like insurance coverage and service reliability.

The overall health score in 45808 is also influenced by the availability of preventative care and routine medical services within the village itself. The presence of a local primary care physician or clinic is crucial for early detection and management of health issues. If residents must travel long distances for even routine check-ups, it can discourage them from seeking care, leading to delayed diagnoses and potentially poorer health outcomes.

The availability of pharmacies and access to prescription medications is another crucial factor. Residents need convenient access to pharmacies to fill prescriptions and obtain over-the-counter medications. If the nearest pharmacy is located in Lima, this adds another layer of travel time and potential inconvenience.

The impact of these transportation challenges extends beyond simply getting to appointments. The time and effort required to access healthcare can lead to increased stress and anxiety, especially for those with chronic conditions or limited financial resources. Missed appointments, delayed treatments, and difficulty managing chronic illnesses can all contribute to a lower overall health score.

For individuals considering moving to Beaverdam, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their healthcare needs and evaluate the feasibility of accessing those services from their potential location. Factors such as age, mobility, and access to a personal vehicle will significantly impact their ability to navigate the transportation challenges.

The health score in 45808 is not static. Efforts to improve healthcare access, such as increasing the availability of telehealth services or expanding public transit options, could significantly improve the community's overall health and well-being. Collaboration between local healthcare providers, transportation agencies, and community organizations is crucial to address the challenges and create a healthier environment for all residents.

In conclusion, the overall health score for residents of 45808 is intertwined with the complexities of transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, the variable availability of ride-sharing services, and the need to travel to Lima for specialized care all contribute to the challenges of healthcare access. For those contemplating moving to Beaverdam, a careful assessment of transportation needs and available resources is paramount. Addressing these transportation barriers through innovative solutions and community partnerships is vital to improving the health and well-being of the residents of Beaverdam and fostering a healthier community.