43147, Pickerington, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43147, Pickerington, Ohio is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.26 percent of residents in 43147 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.53 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Diley Ridge Medical Center with a distance of 3.98 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Pickerington, OH (ZIP Code 43147)

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Pickerington, Ohio (ZIP Code 43147), the ease of accessing this critical healthcare directly impacts their prognosis and quality of life. This "Breast Cancer Score" analyzes the transportation landscape, assessing the accessibility of breast cancer treatment facilities, offering a crucial perspective for individuals navigating this challenging journey, or considering **moving to Pickerington**.

The foundation of healthcare access rests upon **transportation**. In Pickerington, the primary mode of personal **transportation** is the automobile. This necessitates an understanding of drive times to nearby hospitals and specialized cancer centers. The major arteries influencing this commute are US-33, serving as a vital east-west connector, and I-70, a significant east-west interstate. Accessing these roadways is generally straightforward, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times.

Driving to the OhioHealth Pickerington Medical Campus, a local option, offers a relatively short commute, often under 10 minutes depending on the specific location within 43147 and traffic conditions. This facility provides diagnostic imaging, including mammography, and some supportive services. However, for comprehensive cancer care, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, patients typically need to travel further afield.

The OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, a major cancer center in Columbus, represents a more significant drive. The most direct route involves taking US-33 West to I-270 North, then merging onto US-33. This route typically takes between 30-45 minutes, but can extend considerably during rush hour. Another option involves taking I-70 West to I-270 North, adding a few minutes to the overall travel time. Parking availability and associated costs at Riverside Methodist should also be considered.

The James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, another leading cancer treatment facility, is accessible via a similar route, often with comparable travel times to Riverside Methodist. The journey involves taking US-33 West to I-270 North, then exiting onto OH-315 North. Alternatively, one could take I-70 West to I-270 North and then follow the signs to the James Cancer Hospital. These drives necessitate careful planning, especially for frequent appointments.

Public **transportation** options in Pickerington are limited. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) provides bus service, but its routes are not extensive within the 43147 ZIP code, and they offer infrequent services to major medical facilities. The primary COTA route serving Pickerington is Route 32, which connects to downtown Columbus. From there, transfers to other routes are necessary to reach hospitals. This adds considerable time to the commute, potentially exceeding an hour or more, and may not be a viable option for patients undergoing treatment.

ADA accessibility on COTA buses is standard, with features like ramps and designated seating. However, the frequency of service and the necessity for transfers pose significant challenges for individuals with mobility limitations or those undergoing treatment that may cause fatigue or nausea. The reliance on public **transportation** underscores the need for alternative solutions, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** alternative. Availability in Pickerington is generally good, but costs can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent appointments. The convenience of door-to-door service is a significant advantage, however, patients should factor in surge pricing during peak hours or when demand is high.

Medical **transportation** services specifically designed for patients are also available. Companies like LogistiCare and Medical Transportation Management (MTM) contract with insurance providers to offer non-emergency medical **transportation**. These services typically require pre-authorization and may have limitations on the distance or frequency of trips. They can be a valuable resource for individuals who qualify, but eligibility requirements and the need for advance booking should be carefully considered.

The Breast Cancer Score considers these factors to assess the overall ease of access to breast cancer care. The proximity of the OhioHealth Pickerington Medical Campus provides a convenient option for initial screenings and some supportive services. However, the need to travel to Columbus for comprehensive treatment significantly impacts the overall score.

The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public **transportation** options, and the potential costs associated with ride-sharing services all contribute to a less-than-ideal score. The time commitment for appointments, the stress of navigating traffic, and the financial burden of **transportation** can negatively affect patients' well-being and adherence to treatment plans.

For individuals considering **moving to Pickerington**, this analysis highlights the importance of carefully evaluating the **transportation** options and the potential impact on healthcare access. Those without reliable access to a personal vehicle should explore alternative options, such as ride-sharing services or medical **transportation**, and factor these costs into their overall budget.

The Breast Cancer Score for Pickerington, OH (43147) emphasizes the need for proactive planning. Residents should familiarize themselves with the available **transportation** resources, understand the potential travel times to various medical facilities, and consider the financial implications of their chosen mode of **transportation**. This information empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensures they can access the critical care they need, when they need it. The score is not a static number, but a dynamic assessment of the landscape of healthcare access, reflecting the challenges and opportunities presented by the **transportation** infrastructure within this community.