45873, Oakwood, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45873, Oakwood, Ohio is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.97 percent of residents in 45873 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.47 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Paulding County Hospital with a distance of 10.46 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45873 (Oakwood, Ohio)

The health and well-being of a community are intricately linked to its ability to access essential healthcare services. This report delves into the crucial aspect of transportation within ZIP Code 45873 (Oakwood, Ohio), evaluating its impact on overall health by assessing the ease with which residents can reach medical facilities. We will examine drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a comprehensive picture of healthcare access for those considering moving to Oakwood.

Oakwood, a charming community nestled in Paulding County, Ohio, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. While the area boasts a strong sense of community, the rural nature of the region necessitates careful consideration of transportation options when evaluating the overall health score. This analysis aims to provide prospective residents with a clear understanding of the realities of navigating the healthcare landscape in Oakwood.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Wellness**

For residents of Oakwood, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The efficiency of this mode, however, is contingent on several factors, including the location of medical facilities, traffic conditions, and the condition of the roadways.

The primary thoroughfare connecting Oakwood to larger population centers and healthcare hubs is US Route 127. This road, a vital artery for the community, provides direct access to nearby towns like Paulding and Defiance. Drive times to these locations, where a greater concentration of medical services can be found, typically range from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific destination and traffic flow.

Another crucial road is State Route 111, which offers a more direct route to the east. This route is essential for accessing facilities located in the eastern part of the county. The condition of these roads, while generally well-maintained, can be affected by seasonal weather conditions, particularly during winter months.

Access to specialized medical care often necessitates travel further afield. For those requiring advanced treatments or specialized physicians, the cities of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Lima, Ohio, become essential destinations. The most direct route to Fort Wayne is via US Route 24, which can be reached by connecting to US Route 127. The drive time to Fort Wayne, a city with a robust medical infrastructure, typically ranges from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic.

Similarly, accessing Lima, Ohio, requires navigating US Route 127 and connecting to other major roads, such as State Route 116. The drive time to Lima, home to several hospitals and clinics, is generally around 30 to 45 minutes. These longer travel times highlight the importance of planning and considering potential delays when scheduling medical appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Oakwood and the surrounding areas are limited. The rural nature of the region and the low population density present significant challenges to establishing and maintaining a comprehensive public transit system.

Currently, there is no dedicated public bus service operating directly within Oakwood or providing regular routes to nearby healthcare facilities. This absence significantly impacts the healthcare access for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents.

The lack of public transit necessitates reliance on alternative transportation options, such as ride-sharing services or medical transport, which can incur additional costs and require careful planning. The absence of a robust public transit system underscores the challenges faced by some Oakwood residents in accessing essential healthcare services.

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

In the absence of comprehensive public transit, ride-sharing services and medical transport providers play a crucial role in filling the gaps in healthcare access. While these services offer a valuable alternative to personal vehicles, their availability and cost can vary.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Oakwood area, though their presence may be less consistent than in larger urban centers. Availability can fluctuate depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the demand for services. Residents should plan ahead and book rides in advance, especially for medical appointments, to ensure timely transportation.

Medical transport services, designed specifically for individuals with medical needs, offer a more specialized form of transportation. These services typically cater to individuals who require assistance with mobility, such as those using wheelchairs or walkers. Several medical transport providers operate in the region, offering services ranging from basic transportation to specialized medical assistance during transit.

The cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services can be a significant factor, particularly for individuals with limited financial resources. The cost of these services, combined with the distance to healthcare facilities, can create a financial barrier to healthcare access for some Oakwood residents.

**Healthcare Access: A Holistic Assessment**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Oakwood, Ohio, reflects a mixed picture. While the community benefits from relatively short drive times to basic medical services in nearby towns, the lack of public transit and the reliance on private vehicles or ride-sharing services present challenges.

The rural nature of the region, while offering a peaceful lifestyle, necessitates longer travel times for specialized care. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services further impact healthcare access for certain segments of the population.

For those considering moving to Oakwood, a thorough assessment of their transportation needs and healthcare requirements is essential. Individuals who rely on public transit or require specialized medical care should carefully evaluate the availability of transportation options and factor in potential travel times and costs.

**Conclusion: Considerations for Oakwood Residents**

In conclusion, the healthcare access landscape in Oakwood, Ohio, presents both strengths and weaknesses. The community’s proximity to nearby towns provides relatively convenient access to basic medical services. However, the limited public transit options and the reliance on private vehicles or ride-sharing services create potential challenges for certain residents.

Prospective residents should carefully consider their individual healthcare needs and transportation requirements when evaluating the overall health score of the community. Planning ahead, exploring all available transportation options, and understanding the potential costs associated with healthcare access are crucial steps in ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in Oakwood. The community's commitment to addressing the transportation challenges and improving healthcare access will ultimately contribute to the overall health and well-being of its residents.