43569, Weston, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43569, Weston, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.06 percent of residents in 43569 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Henry County Hospital, Inc with a distance of 15.76 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Weston, Ohio (ZIP Code 43569)

Weston, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Wood County, presents a unique landscape for residents seeking comprehensive healthcare, particularly when considering the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This analysis delves into the accessibility of breast cancer care for individuals residing in ZIP code 43569, examining the crucial element of transportation and its impact on healthcare access. The aim is to provide a clear understanding of the available options, empowering residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Weston, Ohio, considers the time and effort required to reach essential medical facilities. This score integrates factors like drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation options. It acknowledges that timely access to care is paramount in breast cancer treatment, impacting both prognosis and quality of life. The score will be presented holistically, weaving together these transportation threads to paint a comprehensive picture.

For residents in Weston, the primary mode of transportation to access breast cancer care often involves personal vehicles. The most direct route to the major healthcare hubs in the region, such as the University of Toledo Medical Center and ProMedica Toledo Hospital, involves navigating the network of highways and roads. Traveling east on **US-6** provides a direct path towards Toledo, offering a scenic, albeit sometimes congested, commute.

From Weston, a drive to the University of Toledo Medical Center typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This journey predominantly utilizes **US-6** and then merges onto **I-475** before connecting to **Glendale Avenue**, leading directly to the hospital. ProMedica Toledo Hospital, located further east, demands a slightly longer drive, often exceeding an hour, involving the same initial route via **US-6** and **I-475**, but continuing onto **US-24** or **I-75** depending on traffic and destination within the hospital complex.

The commute to these hospitals, especially during peak hours, can be challenging. Rural roads like **OH-235** and **OH-65** offer alternative routes, but they often add to the travel time and may not be ideal for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations. The reliability of personal transportation is a significant factor, particularly for those without a readily available support system.

Public transportation options in Weston and the surrounding areas are limited, posing a significant hurdle for those without personal vehicles. The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides some service, but its routes and frequency are not ideally suited for convenient access to specialized medical care. The TARTA system, while offering some routes, often requires multiple transfers and extended travel times, making it less practical for patients needing regular appointments or experiencing fatigue from treatment.

For instance, a hypothetical route from Weston to the University of Toledo Medical Center might involve a bus trip to Bowling Green, followed by a transfer to a TARTA bus heading towards Toledo. This journey could easily consume two to three hours each way, making it an arduous undertaking for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy. ADA-accessible features are available on TARTA buses, including ramps and designated seating, but the overall accessibility is limited by the infrequent service and the need for transfers.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Weston area, providing an alternative transportation option, particularly for those unable to drive. However, the availability of these services can fluctuate, and the cost can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The cost of a ride-share to Toledo hospitals could range from $50 to $80 or more, depending on the time of day and demand.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide a more tailored solution for patients with specific needs. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited, requiring advance booking. Companies like First Transit or other local medical transport providers often serve the area, but their coverage and cost vary.

For individuals considering moving to Weston, the availability of transportation to healthcare facilities should be a key consideration. Prospective residents, especially those with a history of breast cancer or other health concerns, should carefully evaluate the transportation options and their associated costs and limitations. Proximity to healthcare facilities, access to reliable transportation, and the availability of support networks are all vital factors in ensuring timely and effective care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Weston, Ohio, is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the multifaceted challenges of healthcare access. It underscores the importance of considering transportation as a critical component of the overall healthcare experience. For residents of 43569, the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, and the cost of ride-sharing services create significant barriers to healthcare access.

The score highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options, including exploring expanded public transit routes, promoting ride-sharing programs, and advocating for affordable medical transportation services. Furthermore, the score emphasizes the importance of community support networks, which can provide assistance with transportation and other needs.

In conclusion, while Weston offers a peaceful and attractive living environment, residents must navigate the complexities of transportation to access essential healthcare services. The "Breast Cancer Score" for 43569 serves as a valuable tool for understanding these challenges and for advocating for improvements in healthcare access, ultimately contributing to the well-being of the community. The journey to healthcare, especially for those facing breast cancer, is a complex one, and the availability of reliable and affordable transportation is a critical factor in determining its success. For those considering moving to Weston, this analysis serves as a crucial guide to understanding the realities of healthcare access in this charming, yet geographically isolated, community.