43158, Union Furnace, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43158, Union Furnace, Ohio is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.52 percent of residents in 43158 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hocking Valley Community Hospital with a distance of 6.58 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Union Furnace (ZIP Code 43158)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, is a critical consideration when choosing a place to live. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding Union Furnace, Ohio (ZIP code 43158), assessing the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services. Understanding the commute times, public transit options, and alternative transportation solutions is vital for individuals and families considering a move to this area, especially those prioritizing healthcare access.

Union Furnace, a small village nestled in southeastern Ohio, presents unique challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. Its rural setting necessitates careful examination of transportation options, as the availability of specialized medical services, like those for breast cancer, often concentrates in larger towns and cities. This write-up aims to provide a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" based on the accessibility of healthcare facilities, incorporating transportation factors that directly impact patients.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Road to Care**

For residents of 43158, the primary means of accessing breast cancer care will likely involve driving. The nearest major healthcare hubs are located in Athens and Lancaster, Ohio, each presenting distinct drive-time scenarios. The journey to Athens, home to OhioHealth O'Bleness Hospital, typically involves navigating State Route 33, a crucial artery connecting Union Furnace to the larger city.

The drive to Athens, approximately 15 miles, can take around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This relatively short commute time offers a degree of convenience, especially for routine appointments and screenings. However, navigating State Route 33 during peak hours or in inclement weather can significantly extend travel times, potentially adding stress for patients.

Lancaster, approximately 25 miles away, offers another option for breast cancer care, with facilities like the Fairfield Medical Center. The route to Lancaster often involves taking State Route 33 north and then transitioning onto US Route 33. This drive typically takes 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. While slightly longer than the Athens commute, Lancaster provides access to a broader range of specialists and services.

These drive times are crucial considerations for those moving to Union Furnace. The ease of access to healthcare facilities directly impacts quality of life, especially for individuals undergoing treatment. The ability to quickly reach appointments, receive timely care, and minimize travel-related stress is paramount for patients.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in and around Union Furnace are limited. The region's rural nature means that comprehensive public transit systems, common in larger metropolitan areas, are not readily available. This presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or are unable to drive.

The Athens Transit System (ATS) operates within Athens, but its routes and services may not extend directly to Union Furnace. Even if a route were available, the travel time and potential transfers could significantly increase the overall commute time to healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible features on public transit, such as ramps and designated seating, is essential for patients with mobility limitations.

The lack of robust public transit underscores the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions for residents of 43158. Reliance on family, friends, or other support networks becomes crucial for those without personal vehicles. This highlights the potential healthcare access disparities in rural areas, where transportation limitations can exacerbate existing challenges.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a potential solution for transportation to healthcare appointments. However, the availability of these services in Union Furnace and the surrounding areas may be limited. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some patients, especially those undergoing frequent treatments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide another option. Companies specializing in medical transport often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. However, the availability of these services and their associated costs should be carefully considered.

The potential reliance on ride-sharing and medical transport services adds an additional layer of complexity to the "Breast Cancer Score." The availability, cost, and reliability of these services directly influence the accessibility of healthcare. Patients must factor in these variables when assessing their ability to receive timely and convenient care.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" in Context: Moving to Union Furnace**

When considering a move to Union Furnace, the "Breast Cancer Score" must be viewed within the broader context of healthcare access. While the drive times to Athens and Lancaster offer relatively reasonable access to care, the limitations of public transit and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services present challenges.

The score should reflect the balance between the availability of healthcare facilities, the convenience of drive times, and the accessibility of alternative transportation options. For individuals with breast cancer or a family history of the disease, the proximity of healthcare facilities and the ease of travel are crucial factors.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Union Furnace, therefore, would likely be moderate. While the drive times to healthcare facilities are manageable, the lack of robust public transit and the potential reliance on alternative transportation solutions could present barriers for some patients.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Union Furnace is not a static number but a personalized assessment. It depends on individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Factors such as the stage of breast cancer, the frequency of appointments, and the availability of support networks significantly influence the overall score.

For individuals considering a move to Union Furnace, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape and healthcare access is essential. Researching the availability of specific breast cancer services, exploring transportation options, and considering the potential costs associated with travel are crucial steps in making an informed decision. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating these factors and assessing the suitability of Union Furnace as a place to live, ensuring that healthcare access remains a top priority.