45849, Grover Hill, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45849, Grover Hill, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.03 percent of residents in 45849 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.58 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ridgeview Hospital with a distance of 8.15 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45849 (Grover Hill, Ohio)

Assessing the overall health score for residents of Grover Hill, Ohio (ZIP code 45849) requires a comprehensive examination of their access to healthcare. A crucial element of this access is the ease with which individuals can *transport* themselves to necessary medical appointments and services. This analysis delves into the available *transportation* options, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities for residents seeking healthcare. The goal is to provide a realistic understanding for those *moving to Grover Hill*, or currently residing there, about the practicalities of accessing healthcare.

The foundation of healthcare access in Grover Hill is, undoubtedly, the automobile. The town is situated in a rural area, and the primary mode of *transportation* is private vehicle ownership. Therefore, drive times to healthcare facilities are paramount. The nearest hospitals and specialized medical centers are located in surrounding towns and cities. Van Wert, approximately 15 miles northeast, is the closest location with significant medical infrastructure. Reaching Van Wert Health Hospital typically involves a drive along State Route 118, a relatively well-maintained two-lane highway. Travel time, under normal traffic conditions, is generally around 20-25 minutes.

Further afield, Lima, Ohio, offers a broader range of healthcare options, including larger hospitals and specialized clinics. The journey to Lima, approximately 35 miles southeast, requires travel on State Route 118, followed by US Route 30. This trip can take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This extended travel time significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring frequent appointments. The ability to drive safely, and the cost of fuel, become significant factors in maintaining good health.

Public *transportation* options in Grover Hill are extremely limited. There is no established public bus system operating within the town itself. The lack of public transit presents a major barrier for individuals who do not own a car, or who are unable to drive due to age, disability, or financial constraints. This limitation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, potentially exacerbating existing health disparities. The absence of public transit makes it difficult for residents to access routine checkups, preventative care, and specialist appointments.

While public transit is absent, some regional services might offer limited options. The Western Ohio Regional Transit Authority (WORTA) provides some services in the broader region, but their routes and schedules are unlikely to directly serve Grover Hill. Furthermore, the accessibility of any available WORTA routes for individuals with disabilities, adhering to ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, would need to be carefully investigated. The availability of wheelchair-accessible buses, and the ease of boarding and disembarking, are critical considerations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is sporadic and subject to driver availability. The cost of ride-sharing can be prohibitive for regular medical appointments, and the reliability of the service is not guaranteed, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This unreliability poses a significant challenge for residents who depend on ride-sharing for *transportation* to medical facilities. The potential for long wait times, or the inability to secure a ride at all, can lead to missed appointments and delayed care.

Medical *transportation* services, specifically designed for patients, offer a more specialized solution. These services, such as those provided by local ambulance companies, or private medical transport providers, are available for individuals who require assistance with *transportation* due to medical conditions or disabilities. However, these services often come at a higher cost than other forms of *transportation*, and may require prior arrangements. The availability of these services, and the insurance coverage for their use, are critical factors in determining their accessibility for Grover Hill residents.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Grover Hill is negatively impacted by the limited *transportation* options. While private vehicle ownership is the primary mode of *transportation*, the drive times to healthcare facilities are considerable. The lack of public transit, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing services, and the cost of medical *transportation* all contribute to the challenges faced by residents seeking healthcare. For individuals *moving to Grover Hill*, these *transportation* limitations must be carefully considered.

The quality of roads and highways also plays a role. State Route 118 and US Route 30 are generally well-maintained, but road closures due to weather or accidents can disrupt travel and impact healthcare access. The condition of local roads within Grover Hill itself is also important, as poor road conditions can make it difficult for individuals with mobility issues to travel safely. The safety of the roads and the availability of emergency services are crucial factors in the overall health score.

Furthermore, the availability of healthcare providers within Grover Hill itself is limited. The town may have a primary care physician, but access to specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, or dermatologists, likely requires travel to Van Wert or Lima. This necessitates longer *transportation* times and potentially increases the burden on patients and their families. The proximity of pharmacies and other essential healthcare services within Grover Hill also contributes to the overall healthcare score.

The cost of healthcare, including the cost of *transportation* to and from medical appointments, is another crucial factor. The cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and the potential for lost wages due to travel time can all add to the financial burden of accessing healthcare. The availability of financial assistance programs, such as Medicaid or Medicare, can help to mitigate these costs, but the eligibility requirements and the availability of these programs vary.

In conclusion, the overall health score for *healthcare access* in Grover Hill (ZIP code 45849) is moderate, at best. The primary challenge is the reliance on private vehicle ownership and the resulting drive times to healthcare facilities. The absence of public transit, the limited availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical *transportation* all contribute to the difficulties faced by residents. For those *moving to Grover Hill*, careful consideration should be given to the *transportation* challenges and the potential impact on healthcare access. Addressing these challenges, through initiatives such as exploring regional public transit options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting the expansion of telehealth services, is essential to improving the overall health score and ensuring that all residents have equitable access to healthcare.