45896, Waynesfield, Ohio Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 45896, Waynesfield, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.16 percent of residents in 45896 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lima Memorial Health System with a distance of 11.71 miles from the area.

**Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45896 (Waynesfield, Ohio)**

Navigating the healthcare landscape is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and the ease with which one can access medical services significantly impacts quality of life. This assessment focuses on the accessibility of healthcare within and from ZIP code 45896, the heart of Waynesfield, Ohio, considering various modes of transportation and their associated challenges and advantages. This information is vital for anyone considering moving to Waynesfield, as it directly influences their healthcare access.

The overall health score for healthcare access in Waynesfield, Ohio, is moderately challenging. While the community offers some local resources, residents often need to travel to larger towns and cities for specialized care. The primary challenge lies in the limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles, which can be problematic for those without a car or with mobility limitations.

**Drive-Time Dynamics:**

The most common mode of transportation for healthcare access in Waynesfield is by personal vehicle. Given the rural nature of the area, driving is often the most direct and flexible option. The main thoroughfare connecting Waynesfield to other towns is State Route 198, which provides access to Wapakoneta to the north and St. Marys to the south. These towns offer a range of medical facilities, including primary care physicians, specialists, and urgent care centers.

Driving to Wapakoneta, approximately a 10-15 minute journey, provides access to the Wilson Health Medical Group and other healthcare providers. Traveling south on State Route 198 to St. Marys, a 20-25 minute drive, unlocks access to the Joint Township District Memorial Hospital and associated clinics. For more specialized care, residents often travel to Lima, Ohio, a 30-40 minute drive via Interstate 75. Lima offers a broader range of medical services, including Lima Memorial Health System and Mercy Health – St. Rita’s Medical Center.

Traffic congestion is generally not a major concern in this area, making drive times relatively predictable. However, weather conditions, particularly during winter, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Road maintenance and construction projects on State Route 198 and Interstate 75 can also cause delays.

**Public Transit Challenges:**

Public transportation options in Waynesfield and the surrounding area are limited. The lack of robust public transit poses a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who cannot drive, especially the elderly, those with disabilities, and low-income residents. The absence of a comprehensive public transportation network necessitates reliance on alternative solutions.

The Allen County Regional Transit Authority (ACRTA) provides some limited services in the broader Allen County area, but these routes may not directly serve Waynesfield or offer convenient connections to healthcare facilities. Schedules are infrequent, and routes may not align with medical appointment times. ADA-compliant features, such as wheelchair accessibility, are available on ACRTA buses, but the limited service area and frequency remain a challenge.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport Options:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability and affordability can be unpredictable. Ride-share availability is often lower in rural areas compared to urban centers, and surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can make these services expensive.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution for those needing assistance getting to medical appointments. Several medical transport companies operate in the region, providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services. These services typically involve pre-scheduled rides and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, availability may be limited, and advance booking is often required.

Some of the medical transport brands that serve the area include, but are not limited to, First Transit, Logisticare, and local private companies. These services often require pre-authorization from insurance providers, and coverage varies depending on the individual's insurance plan.

**Healthcare Access Considerations:**

Beyond transportation, several other factors influence healthcare access in Waynesfield. The availability of local healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, dentists, and other specialists, is crucial. Waynesfield has a small local clinic, but residents may need to travel to neighboring towns for a wider range of services.

Insurance coverage plays a vital role in healthcare access. The affordability of healthcare services is directly related to insurance coverage. Residents with limited or no insurance may face significant financial barriers to accessing care. The availability of financial assistance programs and community resources can help mitigate these challenges.

The overall health of the community, including chronic disease prevalence and health disparities, also impacts healthcare access. Addressing these underlying health issues requires a multi-faceted approach, including preventative care, health education, and access to healthy food options.

**Conclusion:**

The overall health score for healthcare access in Waynesfield, Ohio, is moderate. While the area offers some local healthcare resources, residents often need to travel to neighboring towns and cities for more specialized care. The limited public transportation options and the reliance on personal vehicles pose significant challenges, particularly for those without a car or with mobility limitations. Ride-sharing and medical transport services provide alternative solutions, but their availability and affordability can be unpredictable.

For individuals considering moving to Waynesfield, understanding these transportation and healthcare access dynamics is crucial. Planning for healthcare needs, including transportation arrangements, is essential. Exploring the available healthcare options, including local providers and regional medical centers, is also necessary.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and overall well-being in Waynesfield, Ohio. Addressing the transportation challenges and expanding access to healthcare services will be critical for improving the overall health score and creating a healthier community. Improving transportation options, whether through expanding public transit, subsidizing ride-sharing services, or supporting medical transport programs, is key to improving healthcare access and the overall health score for residents.