43560, Sylvania, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43560, Sylvania, Ohio is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.32 percent of residents in 43560 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.56 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Promedica Toledo Hospital with a distance of 6.64 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Sylvania, Ohio (ZIP Code 43560)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a complex one. Beyond the emotional and physical challenges, practical considerations like transportation become critical. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for residents of Sylvania, Ohio (ZIP code 43560), delves into the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare, focusing on transportation options. Our aim is to provide a clear picture of how easily individuals can access vital services, thereby informing decisions about healthcare and potentially influencing choices about moving to Sylvania.

Sylvania, a charming suburb of Toledo, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and convenient access to urban amenities. However, the reality of healthcare access, especially for specialized services, requires a nuanced understanding of available transportation options. The "Breast Cancer Score" will evaluate the practicality of reaching essential appointments, from initial screenings to chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many Sylvania residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The proximity to major roadways is a significant advantage. Interstate 475, a crucial artery, provides swift access to Toledo and its surrounding areas. Driving north on I-475 leads directly to the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC), a prominent healthcare provider. The drive, typically around 20 minutes, offers a relatively stress-free commute, minimizing travel time for appointments.

Alternatively, heading south on I-475 connects to the Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90), opening access to hospitals and cancer centers further afield. The Ohio Turnpike, while offering speed, incurs tolls, adding to the overall cost of healthcare. Local roads, such as Monroe Street (US-20) and Central Avenue (US-20A), provide alternative routes, albeit with potentially heavier traffic, particularly during peak hours. These routes are crucial for accessing local clinics and physician offices, offering flexibility for shorter appointments and follow-up care.

The strategic location of Sylvania, with its easy access to major highways, provides a solid foundation for efficient transportation to healthcare facilities. However, reliance on personal vehicles introduces potential challenges. Traffic congestion, especially during rush hour, can impact appointment punctuality. Moreover, the financial burden of fuel, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees must be considered, especially for individuals undergoing lengthy treatment regimens.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Sylvania and the surrounding Toledo area are less robust. The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides bus services, but routes and frequency may not fully meet the needs of individuals requiring frequent medical appointments. Route 24, a primary TARTA route, serves Sylvania, offering connections to downtown Toledo and some medical facilities. However, the frequency of buses, particularly during evenings and weekends, may be limited.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a crucial consideration. TARTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential wait times can pose difficulties for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. The distance from bus stops to healthcare facilities can also be a barrier, especially for those with limited stamina.

For residents of Sylvania relying on public transit, careful planning is essential. Coordinating appointments with bus schedules, factoring in potential delays, and considering the physical demands of navigating bus routes are crucial. The limited public transit options highlight the need for alternative transportation solutions.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a convenient alternative to personal vehicles and public transit. These services provide on-demand transportation, offering flexibility in scheduling and door-to-door service. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments. Surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can further inflate transportation expenses.

Medical transportation services specialize in transporting individuals to and from medical appointments. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers, catering to the specific needs of patients. Several medical transport companies operate in the Toledo area, including CareRide and First Transit. These services offer a valuable resource for individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance. However, availability and cost vary, and advance booking is often required.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services significantly enhances healthcare access for Sylvania residents. These options provide flexibility and specialized support, addressing some of the limitations of public transit. However, the cost of these services remains a critical factor, particularly for individuals on fixed incomes or those facing financial burdens related to their treatment.

**Assessing the "Breast Cancer Score"**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Sylvania, Ohio (43560) reflects a mixed landscape. The proximity to major highways and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services offer advantages. However, the limited public transit options and the cost of alternative transportation methods pose challenges.

For individuals with personal vehicles and the financial means to utilize ride-sharing or medical transportation, healthcare access is relatively good. They can reach a variety of healthcare providers within a reasonable timeframe. However, those relying on public transit or facing financial constraints may encounter significant barriers.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Sylvania would be improved by increased public transit frequency, especially during evenings and weekends, and the expansion of affordable medical transportation options. Furthermore, initiatives to provide financial assistance for transportation costs would significantly enhance healthcare access for all residents.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

Choosing a place to live is a deeply personal decision, and for those facing breast cancer, the accessibility of healthcare is paramount. While Sylvania offers a desirable suburban environment, potential residents must carefully assess the available transportation options. Understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, and the costs associated with ride-sharing and medical transportation is crucial.

Moving to Sylvania necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of these factors. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for understanding the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access. By considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions, ensuring they can navigate the journey to healthcare with as much ease and support as possible. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents of Sylvania, regardless of their circumstances, can access the vital healthcare services they need.