43102, Amanda, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43102, Amanda, Ohio is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.56 percent of residents in 43102 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Berger Hospital with a distance of 10.22 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Amanda, Ohio (ZIP Code 43102)**

The journey to comprehensive breast cancer care in Amanda, Ohio (ZIP code 43102), is more than a simple drive; it’s a complex equation influenced by transportation options, geographical realities, and the pressing need for timely healthcare access. This assessment, the “Breast Cancer Score,” considers the accessibility of screening, diagnosis, and treatment facilities, factoring in drive times, public transit availability, and alternative transportation solutions. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities facing residents of Amanda as they navigate the often-daunting landscape of breast cancer care.

Amanda is a small, primarily rural community, situated in Fairfield County. This geographic context significantly shapes the transportation landscape. While the area offers a sense of tranquility, it also presents limitations regarding healthcare access. The nearest major medical centers with specialized breast cancer services are located in Columbus, a city approximately 30 to 45 minutes away, depending on traffic and the chosen route.

The primary route connecting Amanda to Columbus is via US-22 East, a well-maintained highway that experiences moderate traffic during peak hours. This is the most direct route to major hospitals like OhioHealth Grant Medical Center and The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. Alternatively, residents might opt for State Route 188 East, which merges with US-33 North, another major thoroughfare leading to Columbus. However, this route is often slower due to more frequent stop signs and traffic lights.

Rush hour, particularly weekdays, can significantly impact drive times. Morning commutes, typically between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, and evening commutes, between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM, can add an extra 15 to 20 minutes to the journey. This is a critical factor for those requiring frequent appointments for chemotherapy, radiation, or follow-up care. The ability to arrive on time for treatments is paramount.

Public transportation options in Amanda are limited. The Fairfield County Transit (FACT) provides demand-response service, meaning riders must schedule rides in advance. While FACT offers door-to-door service, it is not a fixed-route system. This can be a significant barrier for individuals who need to travel to Columbus for appointments. FACT does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, a crucial consideration for those with mobility limitations. The scheduling process and potential wait times can be a challenge.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Amanda, but their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver presence in the area, which can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, particularly for those undergoing prolonged treatment.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and MedTransport, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services typically provide door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges. However, these services often require advance booking and can be costly. Their availability in Amanda is a factor to be verified.

For residents of Amanda, healthcare access is intricately linked to transportation. Those without personal vehicles face the most significant challenges. The reliance on public transit, ride-sharing, or medical transportation services adds complexity and potential delays to the process of seeking care. The Breast Cancer Score reflects these realities, highlighting the need for accessible, affordable, and reliable transportation options.

The Breast Cancer Score also considers the availability of local resources. While Amanda itself does not have a dedicated breast cancer treatment center, the proximity to Columbus provides access to a range of specialized services. This includes comprehensive diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, and supportive care services. The quality of care available in Columbus is generally high, but the journey to access it remains a hurdle.

The emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis is immense. Adding the stress of navigating complex transportation options only compounds the challenge. For those moving to Amanda, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial. It allows them to plan for their healthcare needs and make informed decisions.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a static metric. It is a living assessment, subject to change based on factors such as infrastructure improvements, the expansion of public transit, and the availability of new transportation services. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure that residents of Amanda have the best possible access to breast cancer care.

The score also reflects the importance of community support. Organizations like the American Cancer Society and local support groups can provide valuable resources, including transportation assistance, financial aid, and emotional support. Building a strong network of support is critical for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

The Breast Cancer Score underscores the importance of proactive planning. Individuals with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors should familiarize themselves with the transportation options available in Amanda and the surrounding areas. They should also discuss their healthcare needs with their primary care physician and develop a plan for accessing specialized care if needed.

The Breast Cancer Score is a call to action. It highlights the need for collaborative efforts to improve healthcare access in Amanda. This includes advocating for increased public transit options, supporting the expansion of ride-sharing services, and promoting awareness of medical transportation resources.

The goal is to ensure that all residents of Amanda have equal access to the life-saving care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations. The Breast Cancer Score is a tool to help achieve this goal, providing a clear and comprehensive assessment of the transportation landscape and the challenges and opportunities it presents. The journey to healthcare should not be an added burden. It should be a clear and accessible path to recovery and well-being.