43502, Archbold, Ohio Prostate Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Prostate Cancer Score in 43502, Archbold, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

83.87 percent of residents in 43502 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.62 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry County Hospital, Inc with a distance of 13.43 miles from the area.

## Prostate Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Archbold, Ohio (ZIP Code 43502)

The quiet charm of Archbold, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Fulton County, offers a peaceful life. But when considering a move, especially for those with health concerns like prostate cancer, understanding **healthcare access** is paramount. This write-up provides a "Prostate Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on **transportation** options within ZIP Code 43502, crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. It considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, all critical for navigating the healthcare landscape.

The "Prostate Cancer Score" is a hypothetical metric. It is designed to provide a general overview of accessibility, not a definitive medical evaluation. It considers the ease with which a resident can access prostate cancer-related healthcare services, including primary care physicians for initial screenings, urologists for diagnosis and treatment, and specialized facilities for advanced care. The score is influenced by factors like proximity, **transportation** availability, and the overall efficiency of the healthcare system.

**Driving the Healthcare Route:**

Archbold's relative isolation necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for most medical appointments. The primary route to significant healthcare resources involves navigating the local road network. The Fulton County Health Center, located in Wauseon (approximately 15 miles east), is a crucial destination. Accessing it requires traveling east on State Route 2 (also known as the "Ohio Turnpike") or State Route 66. Drive times to Wauseon are typically around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Archbold.

For more specialized care, residents often need to travel further. Toledo, approximately 50 miles northeast, offers a wider array of medical facilities, including hospitals like ProMedica Toledo Hospital and the University of Toledo Medical Center. The most direct route involves taking State Route 66 north to US-24 East, then connecting to I-75 North. The drive to Toledo can take anywhere from 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public **transportation** options within Archbold and the surrounding area are limited. Fulton County offers a dial-a-ride service, but it is not a fixed-route bus system. This service requires advance booking and operates within the county's boundaries. While useful for local errands, its suitability for regular medical appointments, especially those requiring specialized care outside the county, is questionable. The service may not be equipped to handle the specific needs of patients undergoing cancer treatment, such as regular appointments or those who require support.

The lack of robust public **transportation** presents a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive due to physical limitations or other health concerns. The dial-a-ride service is accessible, but it may not meet the needs of patients with multiple appointments or those who require more frequent access to healthcare facilities.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Archbold area, although their availability might be limited compared to larger metropolitan areas. Their reliability and cost-effectiveness can vary, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. Patients should verify service availability and plan for potential delays when relying on ride-sharing for medical appointments.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide specialized **transportation** for patients who need assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability might require advance booking.

**Moving to Archbold: Considerations for Prostate Cancer Patients:**

For individuals considering **moving to Archbold**, a thorough assessment of **healthcare access** is crucial, particularly for those with existing health conditions like prostate cancer. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public **transportation** options necessitate careful planning. Prospective residents should investigate the availability of local primary care physicians, urologists, and access to specialized cancer care facilities.

They should also assess their ability to drive or arrange for alternative **transportation**. The drive times to healthcare facilities in Wauseon and Toledo should be factored into the decision-making process. The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services should also be considered.

**Prostate Cancer Score Considerations:**

* **Proximity to healthcare facilities:** The distance to primary care physicians, urologists, and cancer treatment centers significantly impacts the score.
* **Transportation options:** The availability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of various **transportation** modes (personal vehicle, public transit, ride-sharing, medical transport) are crucial.
* **Waiting times:** The time required to schedule appointments with specialists can affect the score.
* **Support services:** The availability of patient support groups, cancer navigators, and other resources influences the overall score.

**Conclusion:**

While Archbold offers a tranquil lifestyle, its healthcare landscape presents certain challenges for prostate cancer patients. The "Prostate Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 43502 is influenced by the reliance on personal vehicles, limited public **transportation**, and the need to travel to larger cities for specialized care. Prospective residents and current residents should carefully consider these factors when assessing **healthcare access** and planning for their medical needs. Understanding the available **transportation** options and the potential challenges is essential for ensuring timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The decision to move to Archbold should involve a thorough evaluation of these factors to ensure that healthcare needs can be met effectively and efficiently.