41042, Florence, Kentucky Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 41042, Florence, Kentucky is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.92 percent of residents in 41042 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Florence with a distance of 1.99 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Florence, KY (ZIP Code 41042)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a critical factor in patient outcomes. This analysis delves into the accessibility of breast cancer treatment options for residents of Florence, Kentucky (ZIP code 41042), providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation availability. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-share options, and medical transport services. Understanding these logistical hurdles is crucial for anyone considering moving to Florence or for current residents seeking optimal healthcare access.

Florence, a bustling suburb of Cincinnati, offers a blend of suburban convenience and proximity to urban amenities. However, the availability of specialized healthcare services, especially those related to cancer treatment, can significantly impact the quality of life for residents. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape efficiently is paramount. This analysis will help you understand the realities of getting to and from appointments, treatments, and support services.

The foundation of this analysis is the drive time to various healthcare facilities. The primary hospital serving Florence is St. Elizabeth Healthcare, with multiple locations. The main campus, St. Elizabeth Florence, is typically a short drive for most residents. Depending on the specific location within 41042, the drive can range from 5 to 15 minutes, primarily utilizing routes like US-42, KY-18, and the local network of roads. This relatively easy access is a significant positive factor in our Breast Cancer Score.

For specialized cancer care, including oncology and radiation therapy, residents often travel to the St. Elizabeth Cancer Center, located in Edgewood, KY, or to facilities in Cincinnati. Driving to the Edgewood Cancer Center typically takes 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic on I-71/75. Accessing facilities in Cincinnati, such as the University of Cincinnati Medical Center or the Christ Hospital, involves a commute of 25 to 45 minutes, often requiring travel on I-71/75 and navigating city traffic. This longer commute time, especially during peak hours, can add stress and fatigue to an already challenging situation.

Public transportation offers an alternative, though it presents limitations. The Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK) provides bus service throughout the region. Several routes serve Florence, including routes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 7X. These routes connect Florence to Cincinnati and other Northern Kentucky cities. However, public transit can be time-consuming, with longer travel times compared to driving. For example, a bus trip to the St. Elizabeth Cancer Center in Edgewood could take up to an hour or more, including transfers.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. TANK buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accessibility features, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can utilize the service. However, the frequency of service on some routes, especially during evenings and weekends, can be limited, potentially creating challenges for appointment scheduling.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide another transportation option. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing convenience and flexibility. The availability of ride-sharing is generally good in the Florence area, with readily available drivers. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a factor, especially for frequent appointments. The cost of transportation can add up, placing an additional burden on patients.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs. Companies like CareRide and MedRide offer non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are often used for patients who cannot drive or utilize public transit. The cost of medical transport is typically higher than ride-sharing or public transit, but it provides a valuable service for those with specific needs.

The Breast Cancer Score for Florence (41042) considers these factors. The relatively easy access to St. Elizabeth Florence Hospital and the Edgewood Cancer Center provides a positive starting point. However, the longer commute times to Cincinnati facilities and the limitations of public transit, especially for those with mobility challenges, introduce challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services adds flexibility, but the associated costs must be considered.

For individuals considering moving to Florence, the proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of various transportation options, and the consideration of ADA accessibility are vital factors. The Breast Cancer Score is designed to help prospective residents assess the ease of accessing healthcare.

**Scoring Methodology:**

* **Drive Time:** Short drive times (under 20 minutes) to major cancer centers receive a higher score. Longer drive times (over 30 minutes) to specialized facilities decrease the score.
* **Public Transit:** The frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of TANK services are considered. Frequent, accessible routes to cancer centers increase the score. Limited service and long travel times decrease the score.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability and cost-effectiveness of ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) and medical transport services (CareRide, MedRide) are factored in. Readily available, affordable options increase the score. Limited availability or high costs decrease the score.

**Breast Cancer Score for 41042:**

Considering the factors outlined above, the Breast Cancer Score for Florence, KY (41042) is a **7 out of 10**. This score reflects the balance between the advantages of proximity to St. Elizabeth facilities and the challenges associated with longer commutes to specialized centers and the limitations of public transit. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides flexibility, but the cost can be a barrier for some.

**Recommendations:**

* **For Residents:** Explore all available transportation options, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport. Plan appointments strategically to avoid peak traffic hours. Consider the cost of transportation when budgeting for healthcare expenses.
* **For Prospective Residents:** Prioritize locations within 41042 that offer easy access to major roads like US-42 and I-71/75. Research the availability of public transit routes and assess their suitability for your needs. Factor in the cost of transportation when making your moving decision.
* **For Healthcare Providers:** Consider offering transportation assistance programs or partnerships with ride-sharing services to improve healthcare access for patients. Advocate for increased public transit service to healthcare facilities, especially during off-peak hours.

The Breast Cancer Score provides a snapshot of the healthcare access landscape in Florence, KY (41042). It is a tool designed to inform residents and prospective residents about the challenges and opportunities related to transportation and healthcare access. By understanding these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey and advocate for improvements in the community.