43512, Defiance, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43512, Defiance, Ohio is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.52 percent of residents in 43512 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.15 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Defiance Hospital with a distance of 1.00 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Defiance, Ohio (ZIP Code 43512)

Considering a move to Defiance, Ohio (ZIP Code 43512)? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a localized assessment of healthcare access, specifically focusing on transportation options crucial for breast cancer patients. The score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, ultimately evaluating the ease with which residents can access potentially life-saving breast cancer screenings, diagnosis, and treatment. Understanding these factors is paramount for anyone considering a relocation, particularly those with a family history or personal concerns about breast health.

Defiance, a charming city nestled in the heart of Northwest Ohio, offers a blend of small-town charm and essential amenities. However, like many rural communities, healthcare access presents unique challenges. This score illuminates those challenges, providing a practical guide to navigating the healthcare landscape. The goal is to empower informed decision-making, particularly for individuals prioritizing healthcare access when considering a move.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Foundation of Access**

The cornerstone of healthcare access in Defiance is the automobile. The primary roadways serving the area are US-24, a vital east-west artery, and US-127, a north-south route. Interstate 80/90 (the Ohio Turnpike) provides a faster, albeit toll-based, option for longer distances. Drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore heavily influenced by these highways.

The most critical healthcare provider for breast cancer services in the area is ProMedica Defiance Hospital, located within the city. Drive times to this facility from various points within the 43512 ZIP code are generally short, typically under 10 minutes. This proximity significantly enhances the Breast Cancer Score. However, specialized services, such as advanced imaging or radiation therapy, might necessitate travel to larger regional centers.

For instance, accessing the University of Toledo Medical Center, a comprehensive facility offering specialized cancer care, requires a drive of approximately 60-90 minutes via US-24 East. The journey to Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana, another regional hub, takes about 75-90 minutes via US-24 West. These longer drive times, while manageable, introduce potential barriers to timely care, particularly for individuals experiencing treatment side effects or requiring frequent appointments.

The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges the importance of these drive times. While local access is excellent, the need for specialized care necessitates consideration of longer commutes. This underscores the importance of pre-move research and understanding the potential transportation burden associated with specific treatment needs.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Present Option**

Public transportation options in Defiance are limited. The Defiance County Council on Aging (DCCOA) operates a demand-response transit service, primarily catering to seniors and individuals with disabilities. While this service offers a crucial lifeline for some, it is not designed for frequent, on-demand trips and may require advance booking.

The DCCOA's services are generally ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. However, the limited service area and potential for longer wait times can pose challenges for breast cancer patients undergoing treatment. The Breast Cancer Score recognizes the value of this service but acknowledges its limitations in meeting the comprehensive transportation needs of this patient population.

The absence of a robust public transit system emphasizes the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options. This factor contributes to a lower overall score for individuals without access to a car. The need for reliable transportation becomes even more critical for those requiring regular appointments, chemotherapy infusions, or radiation therapy.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Defiance, though their availability may be less consistent than in larger metropolitan areas. Ride-sharing offers a convenient alternative to driving, particularly for individuals unable to drive themselves or those needing a ride after a medical procedure.

Medical transport services, such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are also available. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation for medical appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and LogistiCare. NEMT services often require pre-booking and may have limitations based on insurance coverage.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport as positive factors, particularly for individuals without access to personal vehicles. However, the reliability and cost of these services must be carefully considered. The potential for delays or limited availability can impact the overall healthcare experience.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP Code 43512 reflects a nuanced picture of healthcare access. While local access to ProMedica Defiance Hospital is excellent, the need for specialized services necessitates longer travel times. The limited public transit options underscore the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation solutions.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport provides valuable options, particularly for those without access to a car. However, the reliability and cost of these services must be carefully considered. The score emphasizes the importance of pre-move research, understanding individual healthcare needs, and assessing available transportation options.

**Moving to Defiance: A Call for Proactive Planning**

For individuals considering a move to Defiance, proactive planning is crucial. Before relocating, prospective residents should:

* **Assess their healthcare needs:** Understand current health conditions, family history, and potential future healthcare requirements.
* **Research healthcare providers:** Identify local and regional healthcare facilities offering breast cancer services.
* **Evaluate transportation options:** Determine the feasibility of relying on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, public transit, or medical transport.
* **Contact healthcare providers:** Inquire about appointment scheduling, wait times, and transportation assistance programs.
* **Consider insurance coverage:** Ensure adequate insurance coverage for breast cancer screenings, diagnosis, and treatment.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their relocation and ensure access to the healthcare they need. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a starting point for this crucial assessment, providing a framework for understanding the healthcare landscape and empowering informed decision-making. The goal is to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure that healthcare access is not a barrier to enjoying the benefits of moving to Defiance. This score is not a definitive rating but a guide to help navigate the complexities of healthcare access.