45881, Rawson, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45881, Rawson, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.82 percent of residents in 45881 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.34 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Hospital with a distance of 7.50 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Rawson, OH (ZIP Code 45881)

This analysis provides an overall health score assessment for residents of Rawson, Ohio (ZIP code 45881), focusing on the crucial aspect of healthcare access. The score considers the ease and efficiency of transportation to medical facilities, encompassing drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport availability. Understanding these factors is paramount to ensuring residents can readily access necessary healthcare services, ultimately influencing their overall health and well-being. The evaluation aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare accessibility for those living in or considering **moving to Rawson**, Ohio.

The overall health score is constructed based on a composite of factors, weighted to reflect their impact on healthcare access. These factors include the proximity of healthcare facilities, the efficiency of available transportation options, the affordability of these options, and the availability of specialized medical transport services. This score is not merely a numerical value but a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities faced by Rawson residents in accessing healthcare.

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

For most residents, the automobile is the primary mode of **transportation** for accessing healthcare. Rawson, a rural community, relies heavily on personal vehicles. The drive times to healthcare facilities are, therefore, a critical determinant of the overall health score. The major roadways serving Rawson include State Route 235, State Route 186, and County Road 20.

The nearest major medical centers are located in Findlay, approximately a 15-20 minute drive via State Route 235 and US-224. This drive time is generally considered manageable, providing relatively quick access to a range of medical services. However, this assumes ideal traffic conditions, which may be impacted by rush hour, weather, or accidents.

For specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Lima, approximately a 40-minute drive via State Route 235 and I-75. This longer drive time increases the potential for delays and places a greater burden on individuals, particularly those with chronic conditions or mobility limitations. The condition of the roadways, including potential for potholes and seasonal hazards like snow and ice, can also impact drive times and safety.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in Rawson are extremely limited. The availability of public transportation is a significant factor in the overall health score, as it provides an alternative for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. Unfortunately, the absence of robust public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

There is no fixed-route public bus service operating directly within Rawson. The Hancock Area Transportation Service (HATS) provides demand-response transportation within Hancock County, which includes Rawson. However, this service requires advance booking, typically 24 hours in advance, and operates within specific hours. The availability of HATS is a crucial element in the health score, but its limitations, including the need for pre-booking and potential for delays, must be considered.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility of HATS is a critical factor. HATS offers wheelchair-accessible vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can utilize the service. However, the limited service area and the need for pre-booking still present challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Supplementary Solutions**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Findlay area, offering a potential solution for **transportation** to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services in Rawson itself is variable. The frequency of drivers and the potential for surge pricing can create uncertainties and financial burdens.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, provide another layer of healthcare access. Several medical transport companies serve the area, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT). These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment.

The cost of medical transport services can be a significant barrier to access, particularly for those with limited financial resources. Insurance coverage for these services varies, and out-of-pocket expenses can be substantial. The availability and affordability of these services are therefore crucial components of the overall health score.

**Healthcare Access: Beyond Transportation**

The availability of healthcare providers within Rawson and the surrounding area is another crucial factor influencing the overall health score. The presence of primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care facilities directly impacts the ease of accessing medical care.

Rawson itself may have limited healthcare resources, requiring residents to travel to Findlay or other nearby communities for a wider range of services. The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, neurologists, and oncologists, is particularly important for those with chronic conditions or complex medical needs.

**Moving to Rawson: A Health-Focused Perspective**

For individuals considering **moving to Rawson**, understanding the healthcare access landscape is essential. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for longer drive times to specialized care should be carefully considered. The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are also crucial factors.

**Overall Health Score Conclusion**

Based on the analysis, the overall health score for **healthcare access** in Rawson, Ohio (ZIP code 45881) is moderate. While residents have relatively quick access to primary care and basic medical services in Findlay, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides supplementary solutions, but their cost and availability can be barriers. The overall score reflects the need for individuals to plan carefully for their **transportation** needs when accessing healthcare in Rawson.