45866, Montezuma, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45866, Montezuma, Ohio is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

97.62 percent of residents in 45866 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Grand Lake Health System with a distance of 10.07 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45866 (Montezuma, Ohio)

Evaluating the overall health score for residents of Montezuma, Ohio (ZIP Code 45866) necessitates a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access, particularly focusing on the crucial aspect of transportation. The ability to reach medical facilities promptly and efficiently is a cornerstone of well-being, and this analysis delves into the available options, their limitations, and their impact on the community's overall health. For those considering moving to Montezuma, understanding these factors is paramount.

Montezuma, a small village in Mercer County, Ohio, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. The limited local infrastructure and the rural nature of the area dictate that residents often rely on transportation to reach essential medical services. This analysis examines the primary transportation modalities, considering their accessibility, efficiency, and the potential impact on the overall health score of the community.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary method of transportation for accessing healthcare in Montezuma is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The efficiency of this mode is directly tied to the road network and the distance to healthcare providers. The nearest significant healthcare facilities are located in the neighboring cities of Celina and St. Marys.

Reaching Celina, the county seat, typically involves navigating primarily on local roads, including *State Route 118* and *State Route 219*. The drive time to Mercer Health, a key healthcare provider in Celina, is generally around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Montezuma. The roads are generally well-maintained, but weather conditions, particularly during winter, can impact travel times and safety.

Accessing healthcare in St. Marys, a larger city offering a broader range of medical services, requires a slightly longer journey. The primary route involves traveling on *State Route 219* and connecting to *U.S. Route 33*. The drive time to Joint Township District Memorial Hospital in St. Marys is approximately 20-25 minutes. While *U.S. Route 33* is a major highway, traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can occasionally increase travel times.

The accessibility of these roadways is generally good, but the reliance on personal vehicles poses challenges for individuals without access to a car, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of sidewalks and bike lanes in many areas further limits alternative transportation options, impacting overall healthcare access.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public transportation options in Montezuma and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. Mercer County does not have a comprehensive public transit system, significantly restricting healthcare access for those unable to drive. This lack of public transit is a major factor negatively affecting the overall health score of the community.

While there might be some limited demand-response services or specialized transportation programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities, these are typically not readily available and require advance booking. The lack of regular, scheduled public transit severely restricts the ability of residents to reach healthcare facilities independently.

The absence of ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant public transit further compounds the problem. Individuals with mobility impairments face significant barriers to accessing healthcare, as they are dependent on other transportation options, such as family members, friends, or specialized medical transport services.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and reliability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Montezuma. The wait times can be lengthy, and the cost can be prohibitive for some individuals, especially for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies and private providers, are another option for individuals requiring assistance. These services are often specifically designed for transporting patients to and from medical appointments. However, they can be expensive and may require prior arrangements, making them less convenient for urgent care needs.

Several medical transport brands operating in the area include, but are not limited to, Mercer County EMS and various private ambulance services. These services are crucial for individuals who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. The availability and cost of these services directly impact the overall healthcare access score.

**Impact on Overall Health Score:**

The transportation challenges in Montezuma significantly impact the overall health score of the community. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the limited public transit options, creates barriers to healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Longer travel times to healthcare facilities can delay diagnosis and treatment, potentially leading to poorer health outcomes. The financial burden of transportation costs, including gas, vehicle maintenance, and ride-share fees, can also strain household budgets, especially for low-income residents.

The absence of reliable transportation options can also contribute to social isolation and limit access to preventative care, such as routine check-ups and screenings. This, in turn, can exacerbate existing health disparities and contribute to a lower overall health score for the community.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for residents of Montezuma, Ohio (ZIP Code 45866) is negatively impacted by the limited transportation options available for accessing healthcare. While the roadways are generally accessible, the lack of public transit, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential limitations of ride-share and medical transport services create significant barriers for many residents.

Addressing these transportation challenges is crucial for improving the overall health and well-being of the community. Potential solutions could include exploring the feasibility of establishing a county-wide public transit system, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation options, and expanding the availability of medical transportation services.

For those considering moving to Montezuma, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access. Improving transportation options is a vital step towards building a healthier and more vibrant community in Montezuma.