43511, Custar, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43511, Custar, Ohio is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.52 percent of residents in 43511 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.98 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry County Hospital, Inc with a distance of 17.20 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Custar, Ohio (ZIP Code 43511)

The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is multifaceted. It involves not just the medical expertise of physicians, but also the logistical complexities of **transportation**. For residents of Custar, Ohio (ZIP code 43511), the ability to access timely and effective breast cancer care is intrinsically linked to their **transportation** options. This write-up assesses the “Breast Cancer Score” for this community, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical **transportation** providers, providing a comprehensive view of **healthcare access**. It’s an essential consideration for anyone **moving to Custar**.

Custar, a small village in Wood County, presents unique challenges and opportunities in this regard. The rural nature of the area means that residents often rely on personal vehicles for their daily needs, including accessing medical appointments. This reliance on personal **transportation** is a key factor influencing the Breast Cancer Score.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries of Care**

The primary route for accessing specialized breast cancer care from Custar is generally towards Bowling Green or Toledo. The most direct route to Bowling Green, home to Wood County Hospital, involves traveling east on State Route 64. This is a relatively straightforward drive, typically taking around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Wood County Hospital offers a range of services, including mammography and potentially some initial diagnostic procedures.

For more comprehensive breast cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, residents often need to travel to Toledo. The journey to Toledo involves heading north on State Route 64, then connecting to US-24. This highway provides a more direct route, although traffic can be heavier, especially during peak hours. Expect a drive time of approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific location within Toledo.

The drive to Toledo also offers access to several hospitals with specialized cancer centers, including ProMedica Toledo Hospital and Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center. These facilities provide comprehensive cancer care, including advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The drive on US-24, though generally well-maintained, can be subject to weather-related delays, especially during winter months, impacting **healthcare access**.

**Public Transit: A Limited Safety Net**

Public transit options in and around Custar are extremely limited. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) provides transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These services are primarily demand-response, meaning they require advance booking and may have limited availability. While the WCCOA can be a vital resource for some, it may not be suitable for all breast cancer patients, particularly those needing frequent appointments or facing urgent medical situations.

The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) operates bus routes in the Toledo area, but these routes do not directly serve Custar. Therefore, relying on TARTA to reach cancer centers in Toledo is impractical for Custar residents. The lack of robust public transit significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. ADA accessibility is a key consideration, and the limited options in this area leave a gap in **healthcare access**.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Toledo area and can provide a potential **transportation** solution. However, the availability of these services in Custar itself is less certain. The rural nature of the area may mean that ride-sharing services are less readily accessible, and wait times could be longer. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the Breast Cancer Score.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized option. Companies like MedRide and First Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be a valuable resource for patients who require assistance with mobility or who are unable to drive themselves. However, these services typically come with a cost, which can be a barrier to **healthcare access** for some individuals.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Perspective**

The Breast Cancer Score for Custar, Ohio (43511) reflects a mixed picture. The relatively short drive to Bowling Green for initial screenings and diagnostics provides a positive aspect. However, the longer drive to Toledo for more comprehensive care, coupled with the limitations of public transit and the uncertainties of ride-sharing, presents challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles underscores the importance of family support and the need for careful planning.

The availability of medical **transportation** services offers a crucial safety net, but the associated costs and the need for pre-booking must be considered. For those **moving to Custar**, understanding these **transportation** dynamics is crucial for ensuring timely access to breast cancer care. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of community support networks, the need for reliable personal **transportation**, and the potential benefits of exploring medical **transportation** options.

Ultimately, the Breast Cancer Score for Custar emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the complexities of **healthcare access**. It underscores the need for individuals to understand their **transportation** options, to build support networks, and to be prepared to navigate the logistical challenges associated with breast cancer treatment. The journey to healthcare is not just about medical expertise; it is also about the ability to get there.