43144, Murray City, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43144, Murray City, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.83 percent of residents in 43144 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hocking Valley Community Hospital with a distance of 13.13 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Murray City (ZIP Code 43144)

The journey to quality healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates accessible and reliable transportation. This assessment delves into the transportation landscape within and surrounding Murray City, Ohio (ZIP Code 43144), offering a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the ease of access to vital breast cancer services. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive view for residents and those considering moving to Murray City.

The score is not a numerical value but a narrative assessment, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of healthcare access. It considers the physical limitations that can accompany a cancer diagnosis, such as fatigue, mobility issues, and the need for frequent appointments. Understanding these challenges is crucial when evaluating transportation options.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For those who drive, the primary arteries of transportation in and around Murray City are crucial. State Route 278 serves as a key connector, weaving through the heart of the village. Traveling west on SR-278 offers access to Athens, the location of O'Bleness Hospital, a primary healthcare provider. The drive, depending on traffic, is generally around 30 minutes. This drive time is relatively manageable, but the winding nature of SR-278 can be challenging, especially for those experiencing side effects from treatment.

Further afield, access to larger medical centers necessitates travel on US Route 33. Heading east on US-33 leads to the OhioHealth Berger Hospital in Circleville, approximately a 45-minute drive. Westbound on US-33 provides access to Columbus, where the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute offers specialized breast cancer care. This journey, depending on traffic conditions, can take upwards of an hour and a half, a significant time commitment for frequent appointments or treatments.

The condition of the roads also plays a role. While SR-278 is generally well-maintained, it can experience delays due to weather conditions, particularly during winter months. US-33 is a major highway, but construction or accidents can lead to significant delays. These factors must be considered when planning appointments and treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Murray City are extremely limited. The Athens County Transit System (ACTS) does offer some service, but its routes are infrequent and may not directly serve Murray City. Even if a route exists, the scheduling might not align with the specific needs of breast cancer patients, such as early morning appointments or late afternoon treatments.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles is crucial. Patients with mobility limitations need assurance that the transit system can accommodate their needs, including wheelchair access and assistance with boarding and disembarking. Confirming the availability of these features is essential before relying on public transit.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Athens and Columbus areas. However, their availability in Murray City itself is less certain. The lack of consistent ride-sharing access could pose a significant challenge for patients needing transportation to and from appointments.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) companies, offer a more specialized solution. These services typically provide transportation for individuals with medical needs, including those undergoing cancer treatment. Companies like Medical Transportation Management (MTM) or LogistiCare may operate in the area.

These services often offer door-to-door transportation, assisting patients with mobility issues. However, the cost of these services can be a barrier, and prior arrangements are usually necessary. It is essential to research the availability of these services and understand the associated costs and eligibility requirements.

**Healthcare Access and the "Breast Cancer Score"**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Murray City reflects a mixed picture. While the drive times to hospitals in Athens and Circleville are reasonable, the longer travel time to Columbus and the limitations of public transit pose significant challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport services adds to the complexity of healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Murray City, the availability and reliability of transportation should be a primary consideration. Researching the availability of ride-sharing, medical transport services, and the accessibility of local healthcare providers is crucial.

The score also considers the potential for social isolation. Limited transportation options can restrict a patient's ability to attend support groups, therapy sessions, or social activities, which are vital for emotional well-being during treatment.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Residents of Murray City and those considering moving there should proactively address transportation needs.

* **Explore all available options:** Investigate the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transport providers, and any potential public transit routes.
* **Plan ahead:** Schedule appointments and treatments with transportation in mind. Factor in travel time, potential delays, and the need for assistance.
* **Seek support:** Connect with local support groups or cancer centers for assistance with transportation.
* **Advocate for improvements:** Support efforts to improve public transit or expand ride-sharing services in the area.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Murray City highlights the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of healthcare access. While the community offers access to essential medical services, the limitations in transportation options require careful planning and proactive measures to ensure that all residents can receive the care they need. This is particularly crucial for those facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis.