45816, Benton Ridge, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45816, Benton Ridge, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.73 percent of residents in 45816 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Hospital with a distance of 9.78 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Benton Ridge (ZIP Code 45816)

The health of a community is inextricably linked to its ability to access vital healthcare services. For residents of Benton Ridge, Ohio (ZIP code 45816), this access is heavily influenced by the available transportation options. This analysis provides an "Overall Health Score," evaluating the ease and efficiency of commuting to healthcare providers, considering factors like drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and specialized medical transport. This information is particularly relevant for individuals and families **moving to Benton Ridge**, seeking to understand the practicalities of maintaining their well-being.

Benton Ridge, a small village in Hancock County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in terms of healthcare access. The community’s location, primarily rural, necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most errands, including medical appointments. While the village itself might not boast a comprehensive medical infrastructure, residents benefit from proximity to larger towns and cities like Findlay and Bluffton, which offer a wider array of healthcare services.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Arteries**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Benton Ridge is the private vehicle. Driving is the most common mode of transportation for medical appointments. The primary routes connecting Benton Ridge to healthcare facilities are well-maintained, but drive times can vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Traveling to Findlay, the nearest hub for comprehensive medical care, typically involves navigating a network of local roads and highways. The most direct route often utilizes Township Road 218, connecting to State Route 12. From there, accessing the city involves traversing State Route 12, which can experience moderate traffic during peak hours. The journey to Blanchard Valley Hospital, a major healthcare provider in Findlay, is usually completed within a 15-20 minute drive under normal conditions.

For residents seeking specialized care or services unavailable in Findlay, destinations like Bluffton, Ohio, offer additional options. This trip involves utilizing Township Road 218 and then transitioning to State Route 613, a slightly longer route. The drive to Bluffton Hospital generally takes around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic flow.

These drive times highlight the importance of reliable personal transportation for residents of Benton Ridge. While the roads are generally in good condition, the reliance on personal vehicles underscores the potential challenges for those who may not have access to a car or are unable to drive. This is a critical factor in the overall assessment of **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation options in Benton Ridge and the surrounding areas are limited, impacting the **transportation** landscape for healthcare access. The Hancock Area Transportation Service (HATS) provides demand-response transportation within Hancock County. However, the service operates on a reservation basis and may not always be readily available for immediate medical needs. Furthermore, the service’s coverage area may be limited, potentially requiring residents to travel to a designated pick-up location.

HATS vehicles are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. This is a crucial consideration for residents with disabilities or those who require assistance with mobility. However, the limited scope and potential scheduling constraints of HATS significantly impact its role in facilitating healthcare access for Benton Ridge residents. The availability of accessible **transportation** is a key component of a community’s overall health.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Findlay area, offering an alternative **transportation** option for residents of Benton Ridge. However, the availability of these services can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Specialized medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or private medical transportation providers, cater to individuals with specific medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. While these services offer a crucial safety net for those with significant medical needs, they are typically more expensive than other **transportation** options.

**Medical Transport Brands** in the area include Blanchard Valley EMS, and Hanco EMS.

**Overall Health Score: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The Overall Health Score for commuting to healthcare in Benton Ridge, ZIP code 45816, is a composite of several factors. The primary strength lies in the relatively short drive times to Findlay and Bluffton, offering access to a range of healthcare services. However, the score is tempered by the limitations of public transit, the potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services, and the cost of specialized medical transport.

The score is also influenced by the availability of healthcare providers within the immediate vicinity of Benton Ridge. While the village itself may lack a full-service hospital or clinic, the proximity to Findlay and Bluffton mitigates this disadvantage. The presence of primary care physicians, dentists, and other healthcare professionals in the surrounding areas contributes to the overall health of the community.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

For individuals and families **moving to Benton Ridge**, understanding the nuances of **transportation** and **healthcare access** is crucial. The reliance on personal vehicles is the defining characteristic of the healthcare commute. Residents must factor in the costs of vehicle ownership, maintenance, and fuel. The limited public transit options necessitate careful planning and consideration of alternative **transportation** solutions.

The Overall Health Score for Benton Ridge, while not perfect, reflects a community that, with some planning, can successfully navigate the healthcare landscape. The availability of diverse healthcare providers in nearby towns, combined with the potential for ride-sharing and specialized medical transport, provides a safety net for residents. However, addressing the limitations of public transit and ensuring the affordability of alternative **transportation** options will be essential to improving the overall health and well-being of the community. This information is crucial for anyone making a decision about **moving to Benton Ridge**.