43019, Fredericktown, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43019, Fredericktown, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.46 percent of residents in 43019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Knox Community Hospital with a distance of 9.50 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43019**

The tranquility of Fredericktown, Ohio, nestled in ZIP Code 43019, offers a bucolic charm, a respite from the relentless pulse of urban life. However, when considering a move, particularly for those with health concerns, understanding the accessibility of healthcare becomes paramount. This analysis delves into the breast cancer care landscape, focusing on transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, a crucial factor for anyone contemplating a move to this community.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the ease of reaching facilities equipped to diagnose and treat breast cancer. This includes access to mammography, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology, all essential components of comprehensive breast cancer care. Our focus is on the practicalities of getting to these services from the heart of Fredericktown, recognizing that transportation profoundly shapes healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads to Care**

For many residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. From Fredericktown, the journey to specialized breast cancer care often involves navigating the network of highways and local roads. The most direct route to Columbus, the nearest metropolitan hub, typically utilizes State Route 95, a crucial artery connecting Fredericktown to Interstate 71. This segment, though scenic, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially adding to the stress of a medical appointment.

Once on I-71, the drive south leads to a multitude of healthcare facilities. The OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, a major cancer center, is accessible via I-71 South and then onto US-33 East. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, can take approximately one hour. The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, part of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, is another major option. This facility is reachable via I-71 South, exiting onto OH-315 South, and then onto West 10th Avenue. This route, too, is approximately an hour's drive, but traffic patterns around the university can significantly impact the travel time.

The drive to Mount Carmel St. Ann's Hospital in Westerville, a shorter journey, offers an alternative. It involves traveling south on I-71 and exiting onto US-36 East. The drive time is typically around 45 minutes, making it a more accessible option for some residents. However, traffic conditions on I-71 can still cause delays, and the availability of specific services should be verified.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options from Fredericktown are extremely limited. Knox Area Transit (KAT) provides local bus services within Knox County, but these routes do not extend to Columbus or other regional healthcare centers. This lack of public transit significantly impacts those who do not drive or cannot afford a personal vehicle, limiting their healthcare access.

The absence of robust public transportation is a significant consideration for anyone moving to Fredericktown. While KAT offers a lifeline for local errands, the lack of direct routes to specialized medical facilities in Columbus presents a substantial barrier. This necessitates reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, or medical transportation, adding to the cost and complexity of healthcare access.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative to driving, but their availability and cost can vary. While these services operate in the Columbus area, their presence in Fredericktown might be less consistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of a ride-share to Columbus can also be substantial, potentially creating a financial barrier to accessing care.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, provide another option. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, these services come with a cost, which may or may not be covered by insurance. Patients should investigate the availability and insurance coverage of these services before relying on them.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The transportation challenges in Fredericktown directly impact healthcare access, particularly for those needing specialized breast cancer care. The drive times to Columbus, the limited public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical transportation can create significant hurdles. This is especially true for patients undergoing frequent treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, requiring regular trips to the hospital.

The lack of convenient transportation can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, increased stress for patients, and a potential decline in the quality of care. For those considering a move to Fredericktown, understanding these transportation limitations is crucial to making an informed decision about their healthcare needs.

**Conclusion: Weighing the Factors**

Moving to Fredericktown offers a unique lifestyle, but assessing the healthcare access is essential. While the area offers a tranquil environment, the transportation limitations pose challenges for those requiring specialized medical care. The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of considering the drive times, the limited public transit, and the costs associated with alternative transportation options.

Individuals contemplating a move should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and healthcare requirements. Researching the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transportation options, and the potential financial implications is crucial. Understanding these factors will empower potential residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they can access the care they need, should they choose to call Fredericktown home. The peace of mind that comes with reliable healthcare access is a vital component of a fulfilling life, and it should be a central consideration when evaluating a move to any community.