43549, Ney, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43549, Ney, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.51 percent of residents in 43549 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.91 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Promedica Defiance Regional Hospital with a distance of 8.64 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 43549**

The quest for timely breast cancer care, a critical component of healthcare access, takes on a unique complexion in ZIP Code 43549, the heart of Ney, Ohio. This rural community presents a landscape where transportation infrastructure significantly shapes a patient’s ability to receive vital screenings, diagnoses, and treatments. Understanding the nuances of this transportation landscape is paramount in assessing the Breast Cancer Score for this area, a measure of how easily residents can access the necessary healthcare services.

The primary challenge in Ney stems from its geographical isolation. The nearest comprehensive medical facilities, equipped with oncology departments and specialized breast cancer care, are situated in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This reliance on transportation, and the related time and cost, is a significant factor when evaluating the Breast Cancer Score.

For those with personal vehicles, the drive is the most common mode of transportation. However, the distance and road conditions influence the journey. Residents typically utilize State Route 18, the primary east-west artery through Ney. Depending on the destination, they may also travel on State Route 49, a north-south route. The drive to Bryan, Ohio, the closest town with some medical services, is approximately 15-20 minutes. This journey requires navigating two-lane roads, which can be subject to weather-related delays, especially during the harsh Ohio winters.

For more comprehensive care, patients must travel further. The drive to Defiance, Ohio, a regional hub with a larger hospital and potentially more specialized services, takes around 30-40 minutes, primarily via State Route 18 and US-24. The route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours.

The journey to Toledo, Ohio, the nearest city with advanced cancer centers and comprehensive care, can take up to an hour and a half, or even longer, depending on traffic. This trip involves a combination of State Route 18, US-24, and the I-75. This longer commute significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as it increases the time commitment, potential for delays, and the financial burden associated with travel.

Public transportation options in 43549 are limited. There is no dedicated public bus system serving the area. This lack of public transit presents a major obstacle for individuals who cannot drive, do not own a vehicle, or are unable to drive due to medical conditions. This significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score for this demographic, as it restricts their access to vital healthcare services.

The absence of public transportation necessitates reliance on alternative modes of transportation, such as ride-sharing services. While Uber and Lyft operate in the broader Toledo area, their availability in Ney and the surrounding rural areas is uncertain. Even if available, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant financial barrier, particularly for frequent appointments, such as chemotherapy or radiation treatments. This financial burden further diminishes the Breast Cancer Score for residents who depend on these services.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Several companies operate in the region, including First Transit and MedRide. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility issues. However, the availability of these services in Ney and their coverage of all medical facilities is crucial. Furthermore, the cost of medical transportation can be substantial, particularly for those without adequate insurance coverage.

The availability of ADA-compliant transportation is another critical factor. Patients with mobility impairments require accessible vehicles and trained drivers. The lack of such services, or their limited availability, can significantly hinder access to healthcare and negatively impact the Breast Cancer Score.

The Breast Cancer Score is also affected by the availability of support services. Organizations like the American Cancer Society and the Susan G. Komen Foundation often provide resources, including transportation assistance, for patients. The awareness of these resources and their accessibility within the community can significantly improve a patient’s ability to access care.

The financial implications of transportation are a major consideration. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, parking fees, and ride-sharing or medical transportation services can quickly accumulate. These expenses can create a significant financial burden for patients, especially those undergoing treatment and potentially facing income loss due to their illness. This financial strain further lowers the Breast Cancer Score, highlighting the need for financial assistance programs and accessible transportation solutions.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for 43549 reflects the challenges of healthcare access in a rural environment. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transportation options, and the potential financial burden of transportation all contribute to a lower score. The distance to specialized medical facilities, the absence of readily available ride-sharing services, and the potential limitations of medical transportation services further exacerbate the challenges.

For individuals considering moving to Ney, Ohio, the accessibility of healthcare should be a key consideration. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and the availability of resources to meet those needs. They should also investigate the availability of support services, such as financial assistance programs and patient advocacy groups, to navigate the healthcare system effectively.

Improving the Breast Cancer Score in 43549 requires a multi-faceted approach. This includes advocating for expanded public transportation options, such as a rural transit system. The implementation of community-based ride-sharing programs or partnerships with existing ride-sharing services could also be beneficial. Furthermore, increasing the availability of medical transportation services and ensuring ADA-compliant vehicles are essential.

The promotion of telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely, can also help to mitigate the transportation challenges. Increasing awareness of existing support services, such as financial assistance programs and patient navigation resources, can empower patients to access the care they need.

The Breast Cancer Score is not just a numerical value; it represents the lived experiences of individuals facing a serious illness. By understanding the transportation challenges and the availability of resources, communities can work to improve healthcare access and ensure that all residents, regardless of their location, have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care.