43533, Lyons, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43533, Lyons, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

48.68 percent of residents in 43533 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fulton County Health Center with a distance of 10.73 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43533**

Navigating the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, necessitates a thorough understanding of available resources. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 43533 (Lyons, Ohio), evaluates the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for individuals facing this challenging journey. We’ll delve into drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities, offering a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" to inform decisions about healthcare accessibility for residents and those considering moving to Lyons.

The Breast Cancer Score isn't a numerical value, but rather a qualitative assessment, considering the multifaceted nature of transportation and its influence on healthcare access. Factors such as distance, travel time, mode of transportation, and the availability of support services are all considered. This score aims to provide a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing breast cancer care within and around ZIP code 43533.

**Driving Times and Roadways**

For many residents of Lyons, the primary mode of transportation will be personal vehicles. The proximity to major roadways is crucial. The primary artery is State Route 2, a vital east-west thoroughfare. Traveling east on State Route 2 provides access to hospitals and specialized cancer centers in Toledo, the nearest major city. The drive to the University of Toledo Medical Center, for example, typically takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Alternatively, heading west on State Route 2 leads to healthcare facilities in Bryan, Ohio, though these may offer fewer specialized cancer services. The drive to Bryan typically takes around 30 minutes. State Route 191, a north-south road, offers another option for accessing healthcare in nearby towns. However, these routes often involve navigating rural roads, which can be affected by weather conditions.

Traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel times. Considering the physical and emotional toll of a breast cancer diagnosis, the added stress of a lengthy commute can exacerbate the situation. The Breast Cancer Score acknowledges this by factoring in potential delays and the need for reliable transportation.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in ZIP code 43533 is extremely limited. The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides some service to the greater Toledo area, but the availability of routes and schedules in Lyons is minimal. This lack of robust public transit presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or are unable to drive due to their treatment or condition.

While TARTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, the infrequent service and the limited geographical coverage make it an impractical option for many residents needing regular medical appointments. The Breast Cancer Score reflects the significant disadvantage imposed by this lack of public transportation infrastructure. The absence of reliable public transit significantly reduces healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Toledo area, but their presence in Lyons is less consistent. Availability may be limited, and surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand could add to the financial burden. The reliance on ride-sharing can also create scheduling difficulties, as patients must coordinate pick-up and drop-off times with their appointments.

Medical transportation services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more reliable option. Companies like CareRide and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services are often covered by insurance, but availability and wait times may vary. The Breast Cancer Score considers the potential costs and limitations of these services, recognizing that they may not be readily accessible or affordable for all residents.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The combined factors of limited public transit, variable ride-sharing availability, and potentially lengthy drive times create significant barriers to healthcare access for breast cancer patients in ZIP code 43533. Regular appointments for diagnosis, treatment (chemotherapy, radiation), and follow-up care are essential. The challenges in accessing these services can lead to delays in treatment, increased stress, and a diminished quality of life.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the availability of support services, such as patient navigators, who can assist with transportation arrangements and coordinate appointments. It also acknowledges the importance of community resources, such as cancer support groups and financial assistance programs, which can help alleviate the burden of transportation costs.

**Moving to Lyons: A Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Lyons, Ohio, and facing a breast cancer diagnosis or a high risk of developing the disease, the transportation landscape is a critical factor to consider. The Breast Cancer Score highlights the need to carefully evaluate the accessibility of healthcare services, including the availability of specialized cancer centers, the reliability of transportation options, and the presence of support services.

The score suggests that individuals with breast cancer or at high risk should prioritize locations with convenient access to major roadways, reliable public transportation (if available), and readily available ride-sharing or medical transportation services. The proximity to comprehensive cancer care facilities, along with the availability of support networks, is also crucial.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

The Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 43533 reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with accessing healthcare for breast cancer patients. The limited public transit options, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create significant barriers. While medical transportation services offer a viable alternative, their accessibility and affordability are essential considerations.

This analysis underscores the need for improved transportation infrastructure and increased access to support services in Lyons and surrounding areas. By addressing these challenges, the community can ensure that all residents have equal access to the vital healthcare they need. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, promoting ride-sharing programs, and supporting medical transportation services. It is a call to action for healthcare providers, community leaders, and policymakers to prioritize the needs of breast cancer patients and create a more accessible and supportive healthcare environment. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that transportation is not merely a logistical issue; it is a critical determinant of healthcare access and, ultimately, of quality of life.