43623, Toledo, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43623, Toledo, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.20 percent of residents in 43623 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Promedica Toledo Hospital with a distance of 3.48 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 43623

The journey to healthcare, particularly for critical conditions like breast cancer, is a complex equation. It’s not merely about diagnosis and treatment; it's about access, convenience, and the often-overlooked element of transportation. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of breast cancer care for residents of ZIP Code 43623, a region within the Toledo metropolitan area, offering a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options. We’ll explore the realities of commuting to healthcare, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This information will be invaluable for anyone considering moving to Toledo, especially those prioritizing healthcare access.

The foundation of our analysis rests on the understanding that timely access to care is paramount. Early detection and treatment are critical for positive outcomes in breast cancer cases. Delays caused by transportation challenges can significantly impact a patient's prognosis and quality of life. Therefore, we'll examine the available transportation infrastructure and services to determine the ease with which residents of 43623 can reach essential medical facilities.

**Driving the Distance: A Road Map to Care**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare is driving. The 43623 ZIP Code benefits from its proximity to major thoroughfares, but drive times can vary significantly depending on traffic and the location of healthcare providers. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare in the Toledo area include Interstate 75 (I-75), the major north-south corridor, and the Anthony Wayne Trail, a crucial east-west artery.

From various points within 43623, a drive to the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC), a major healthcare provider, typically involves navigating local roads like Reynolds Road and Secor Road before merging onto I-75. During off-peak hours, this commute might take approximately 15-20 minutes. However, during rush hour, especially between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and again from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, congestion can easily extend the drive time to 30 minutes or more.

Another significant healthcare destination is ProMedica Toledo Hospital, located further east. Reaching this facility typically involves traveling on the Anthony Wayne Trail or using local roads like Airport Highway. The drive time from 43623 to ProMedica can range from 20 to 35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This variability highlights the importance of considering peak travel times when planning medical appointments.

Smaller clinics and specialized cancer centers may be more accessible, potentially reducing drive times. However, patients often need to visit multiple facilities for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, making the overall transportation burden substantial. The efficiency of the road network is a crucial factor in healthcare access, and residents of 43623 should familiarize themselves with potential traffic bottlenecks.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Rails and Routes**

The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides public transportation services within the city. While TARTA offers a network of bus routes, the system's coverage in 43623 and its direct access to major healthcare facilities can be limited. This is a crucial factor when evaluating the "Breast Cancer Score" for this area.

Several TARTA routes, including Route 2 and Route 20, serve areas within or near 43623. However, these routes may not directly connect to all major hospitals or cancer centers. Transfers might be necessary, adding to the overall travel time and complexity. The frequency of service, especially during evenings and weekends, can also be a concern.

TARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and accessible seating. This is a critical consideration for patients with mobility limitations. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of navigating the public transit system with medical equipment or limited mobility can still present challenges.

The reliance on public transportation can significantly increase travel times compared to driving. A trip that takes 20 minutes by car might take an hour or more by bus, including waiting times and transfers. This extended travel time can be particularly burdensome for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, who may experience fatigue and other side effects.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Alternative Avenues**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. These services provide on-demand transportation, potentially reducing travel times compared to public transit. However, the availability of ride-sharing services and the associated costs can vary.

Ride-sharing fares can fluctuate based on demand, and the cost of frequent trips to medical appointments can quickly accumulate. Furthermore, the reliability of ride-sharing services, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability, can be a concern.

Medical transportation services, such as those offered by private companies or healthcare providers, provide specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services often include wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. While medical transportation can offer a more comfortable and convenient option, it typically comes with a higher cost.

The availability of medical transportation services in 43623 and the insurance coverage for these services should be carefully investigated. Understanding the specific services offered and the associated costs is essential for patients who require specialized transportation assistance.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Considerations for 43623**

Considering all factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for transportation in 43623 is moderate. The area benefits from access to major roadways, allowing for relatively quick commutes to some healthcare facilities by car. However, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a challenge for those without access to a car or those who are unable to drive.

Public transit options are available, but their limited coverage and potential for lengthy travel times pose a significant barrier. Ride-sharing services offer a viable alternative, but the cost and reliability of these services need to be considered. Medical transportation services are available but may come with a high price tag.

For residents of 43623, the "Breast Cancer Score" underscores the importance of careful planning and preparation. Patients should familiarize themselves with the various transportation options, including drive times, public transit routes, and ride-sharing services. They should also explore the availability of medical transportation assistance and understand the associated costs and insurance coverage.

When considering moving to Toledo, potential residents should factor in the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access. The availability of reliable and affordable transportation is a critical factor in ensuring timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. This is especially true for individuals with chronic conditions like breast cancer, who require frequent medical appointments.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" is a dynamic assessment that should be regularly updated. Changes in transportation infrastructure, public transit routes, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services can impact the accessibility of healthcare. Residents of 43623 should stay informed about these changes and advocate for improvements in transportation options to ensure that all individuals have equal access to quality healthcare.