45817, Bluffton, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45817, Bluffton, Ohio is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.81 percent of residents in 45817 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.95 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Hospital with a distance of 0.03 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45817 (Bluffton, Ohio)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Bluffton, Ohio (ZIP Code 45817) requires a deep dive into their access to healthcare, a crucial element often dictated by the ease and efficiency of **transportation**. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. It aims to paint a comprehensive picture for prospective residents, particularly those **moving to Bluffton**, and highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the current system. The ultimate goal is to determine how readily individuals can reach the necessary medical care.

The geographic isolation of Bluffton, nestled in Allen County, significantly impacts healthcare accessibility. While the community itself offers some local resources, residents frequently need to travel to larger regional centers for specialized care. This reality underscores the importance of efficient **transportation** networks.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary arteries connecting Bluffton to healthcare facilities are State Route 103, State Route 696, and Interstate 75 (I-75). These roads are critical for residents seeking medical attention.

Bluffton Hospital, a local facility, is readily accessible. However, for more specialized services, residents often travel to larger hospitals in Lima, approximately 15 miles south. This journey typically involves navigating State Route 696 and then merging onto I-75. During off-peak hours, the drive can be completed in under 20 minutes. However, traffic congestion on I-75, particularly during rush hour, can significantly extend travel times, potentially pushing the commute to 30-45 minutes.

Further afield, the journey to hospitals in Findlay, approximately 30 miles north, involves using State Route 103 and I-75. This commute usually takes around 35-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. For residents needing specialized care at facilities in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the drive is roughly 50 miles and requires using I-75 and then taking US-30 West. This trip can take approximately an hour or more, making it a considerable time commitment.

These drive times, while manageable, highlight the dependence on personal vehicles. The reliance on cars can pose challenges for those without vehicles, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities, potentially hindering their **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit Options:**

Public **transportation** options in Bluffton are limited. The Allen County Regional Transit Authority (ACRTA) provides some services within the county, but its routes and frequency are restricted, and it does not have a direct route to Bluffton. This lack of robust public transit significantly impacts **healthcare access** for those who cannot drive.

The absence of regular bus services to neighboring cities, such as Lima or Findlay, further exacerbates the issue. The lack of accessible public **transportation** becomes a significant barrier to receiving timely medical care.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features on any limited public transit options is crucial. The absence of these features would severely limit access for individuals with disabilities, making it even harder for them to reach healthcare facilities.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Services:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bluffton area, but their availability and responsiveness may be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Residents should be prepared for potential delays or unavailability, particularly when seeking urgent medical care. The reliability of these services is a key factor in determining the overall **healthcare access**.

Several medical transport services operate in the region. These services, often specializing in non-emergency medical transportation, offer a valuable resource for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other **transportation** options. However, the cost of these services can be a significant barrier for some residents, potentially limiting their **healthcare access**.

Specific medical transport brands that serve the area include, but are not limited to, local ambulance services that may offer non-emergency transport, and regional private medical transport companies. Availability and cost vary depending on the service and the distance traveled.

**Overall Health Score Assessment:**

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in ZIP Code 45817 is moderate. While the proximity of Bluffton Hospital offers immediate care, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options present challenges. The availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport provides some alternatives, but their reliability and cost can be significant factors.

For individuals **moving to Bluffton**, understanding these **transportation** limitations is crucial. While the community offers a welcoming environment, the potential for longer travel times to access specialized medical care should be considered.

The lack of robust public **transportation** and the potential for extended drive times, especially during peak hours or for those requiring specialized care, negatively impact the overall health score. However, the presence of local healthcare facilities and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offer some mitigation.

The overall health score for **healthcare access** in Bluffton could be significantly improved by enhancing public **transportation** options, potentially through partnerships with regional transit authorities or the implementation of local shuttle services. Promoting and subsidizing medical transport options for low-income residents could also improve **healthcare access**.

Ultimately, the success of Bluffton in promoting the health and well-being of its residents hinges on addressing these **transportation**-related challenges. By investing in improved **healthcare access** through enhanced **transportation** infrastructure, Bluffton can become an even more attractive and healthy place to live.