43523, Grelton, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43523, Grelton, Ohio is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

100.00 percent of residents in 43523 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.18 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry County Hospital, Inc with a distance of 6.56 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Grelton, Ohio (ZIP Code 43523)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, is fraught with emotional and practical considerations. Where you live, and how you get there, are critical components of your experience. This analysis focuses on healthcare access in Grelton, Ohio (ZIP Code 43523), offering a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options. This score aims to provide a realistic picture for residents and those considering moving to Grelton, ensuring informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

Grelton, a small village in Henry County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The community's rural setting dictates transportation options, influencing the ease with which residents can access essential services. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, painting a comprehensive picture of the challenges and opportunities.

**Drive Times: The Arteries of Healthcare**

The primary mode of transportation in Grelton is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. Understanding drive times to nearby healthcare facilities is paramount. The nearest major hospital with comprehensive cancer care is likely in Defiance, Ohio, approximately 25 miles away. Traveling via **US-24** is the most direct route, typically taking around 35-45 minutes depending on traffic. This highway, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially extending travel times.

Another option involves traveling east on **OH-18**, connecting to **US-24**. This route, although slightly longer, offers alternative access and can be beneficial if there are accidents or construction on US-24. Expect a drive time of around 40-50 minutes.

For those seeking specialized care, such as radiation therapy or complex surgeries, the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC) might be a consideration. This journey involves traveling east on **US-24** to **I-475** and then to **US-23**. This commute is significantly longer, approximately 60-75 minutes, and subjects the patient to the unpredictable nature of interstate traffic.

The "Breast Cancer Score" will factor in these drive times, acknowledging that longer travel distances can increase stress, fatigue, and the potential for delays, impacting the patient's ability to adhere to treatment schedules. The score will also consider the cost of fuel and vehicle maintenance, adding another layer of financial burden.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation in Grelton is limited. Henry County does offer a public transit system, but its frequency and route coverage are restricted. This system, while providing a lifeline for some, may not be a viable option for regular trips to cancer treatment centers.

The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial factor. Patients undergoing treatment may have mobility limitations, making accessible transportation a necessity. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the availability of ADA-compliant vehicles and the system's ability to accommodate medical equipment, such as wheelchairs or walkers.

The schedule of public transit is another critical consideration. Cancer treatments often require frequent appointments, making it essential to have reliable and timely transportation. The score will evaluate the frequency of service and the flexibility of the schedule to accommodate appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent in many areas. However, their availability in rural areas like Grelton is often limited. The "Breast Cancer Score" will assess the presence of ride-sharing services and their reliability. Factors such as surge pricing and driver availability, especially during off-peak hours or medical emergencies, will be considered.

Medical transport services offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services, often provided by companies like CareRide or First Transit, provide non-emergency medical transportation. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the availability of these services in Grelton, their coverage area, and the types of medical equipment they can accommodate.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Methodology**

The "Breast Cancer Score" will be calculated using a weighted system, considering the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The primary factor, reflecting the time required to reach major healthcare facilities.
* **Public Transit Availability:** Assessing the frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of the public transit system.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Evaluating the presence, reliability, and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Availability:** Assessing the availability, coverage area, and equipment capabilities of medical transport services.
* **Cost:** Fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, public transit fares, and the cost of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its importance, and the score will be calculated based on the weighted average. The final score will be presented on a scale, allowing residents and potential movers to understand the level of healthcare access available in Grelton.

**Impact on Healthcare Access: A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to provide a realistic assessment of healthcare access in Grelton. It recognizes that transportation is not merely a logistical issue but a critical determinant of a patient's experience. The score will consider the impact of transportation on:

* **Treatment Adherence:** Longer travel times and limited transportation options can make it difficult for patients to attend appointments, potentially impacting their treatment outcomes.
* **Financial Burden:** The cost of transportation can add to the financial strain of cancer treatment, making it difficult for patients to afford the care they need.
* **Emotional Well-being:** The stress and anxiety associated with transportation can exacerbate the emotional challenges of cancer treatment.
* **Quality of Life:** Limited access to healthcare can negatively impact a patient's quality of life, making it difficult to maintain their independence and social connections.

**Moving to Grelton: An Informed Decision**

For those considering moving to Grelton, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides valuable information. It allows potential residents to understand the challenges of healthcare access and to plan accordingly. It encourages proactive planning, including identifying transportation options, assessing the availability of support services, and considering the proximity of healthcare facilities.

The "Breast Cancer Score" empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare and their living situation. It helps them to weigh the benefits of living in a rural community against the potential challenges of healthcare access. It ensures that individuals are not only aware of the healthcare landscape but also prepared to navigate it effectively.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Road Ahead**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Grelton, Ohio, is more than just a number. It is a reflection of the community's commitment to healthcare access. It highlights the importance of transportation in the fight against breast cancer. By understanding the challenges and opportunities, residents and potential movers can make informed decisions and ensure they have the resources they need to navigate the journey to healthcare. This score underscores the necessity of addressing transportation barriers and advocating for improved healthcare access in rural communities. It is a call to action, urging communities to work together to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive the care they deserve.