Access to transportation is a key social determinant of health. It directly influences a person's ability to access healthcare, employment, education and social support. Without reliable transportation, individuals are more likely to miss medical appointments, struggle to maintain steady employment, and face isolation, all of which negatively impact health outcomes.

The 2024 Wood County Community Health Assessment has identified transportation as one of the top priorities for the county. Some of the disparities identified through community surveys and stakeholder meetings conducted as part of the assessment include: employment issues, limited access to health care and lack of youth accessibility.

Individuals have missed days of work simply because they couldn’t find a ride or their scheduled transportation was late, which ends up putting their jobs, and financial stability, at risk.

Local health care providers indicated that patients are in hospital beds longer than necessary because there is no transportation to get them home safely, which ties up critical resources.

Educational institutions and local non-profit organizations indicated that children are missing school or extra-curricular programs because they don’t have a dependable way to get there.

Wood County’s vision is a community where everyone, regardless of age, ability or income, has access to safe, affordable and dependable transportation. By establishing strong partnerships and investing in innovative solutions, Wood County seeks to reduce health and economic disparities, promote independence and enhance quality of life in the county.

To achieve this vision, Wood County is undertaking a feasibility study to evaluate options for public transportation services that can help people get where they need to be across the county. As part of that study, this survey is designed to provide information on the transportation needs and preferences of residents of Wood County.

Thank you for assisting us in addressing transportation issues in Wood County.