43718, Belmont, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43718, Belmont, Ohio is 52 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

70.09 percent of residents in 43718 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 8.94 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43718**

The air in Belmont, Ohio, whispers of rolling hills and a slower pace. Nestled within the heart of Appalachia, ZIP code 43718 offers a tranquil existence, a haven for those seeking respite from the relentless clamor of urban life. Yet, the serenity of this landscape masks a critical concern: the accessibility of vital healthcare services, particularly for those navigating the complexities of breast cancer. This write-up delves into the realities of **transportation** and **healthcare access** for residents of 43718, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and opportunities they face, especially when considering **moving to Belmont**.

The Breast Cancer Score, a composite metric, is designed to illuminate the ease with which individuals in this ZIP code can reach essential breast cancer care. It considers factors such as drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The higher the score, the greater the ease of access. Conversely, a lower score signifies significant hurdles in reaching crucial medical appointments, treatments, and support systems.

The primary factor influencing the Breast Cancer Score is the geographic isolation. Belmont, Ohio, is a rural community, and the nearest comprehensive breast cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating significant travel. The most direct route to Wheeling Hospital, the closest option, is via I-70 West. The drive, covering approximately 25 miles, typically takes around 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This time frame is crucial, as delays can significantly impact the stress and inconvenience of appointments.

For those seeking specialized care, such as advanced radiation therapy or clinical trials, the journey extends further. The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute in Columbus, a renowned facility, is approximately 130 miles away. The drive, primarily via I-70 West, can take upwards of two and a half hours, potentially longer during peak traffic periods. This extended travel time poses a substantial burden, particularly for patients undergoing frequent treatments or facing debilitating side effects.

Public **transportation** options in 43718 are limited. The Belmont County Transportation Department provides demand-response services, but these are not specifically tailored to medical appointments. The availability of these services is also subject to scheduling, making it challenging for patients to coordinate their trips with the often-rigid schedules of medical facilities. The lack of fixed-route bus services and the absence of ADA-compliant features on the available vehicles further exacerbate the situation for individuals with mobility limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and affordability are variable. The availability of drivers is often dependent on demand and time of day, making it difficult to guarantee timely transportation, especially for early morning appointments or late-night treatments. The cost of ride-sharing can also be prohibitive for some patients, especially those on fixed incomes or undergoing long-term treatment regimens.

Medical **transportation** services, such as MedRide and FirstCall Medical **Transportation**, offer specialized assistance for patients needing non-emergency medical transport. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. However, the availability of these services in 43718 may be limited, and the cost can be substantial, potentially creating a barrier to **healthcare access** for some residents.

The Breast Cancer Score for 43718 is significantly impacted by the lack of convenient **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the extended drive times to specialized care centers, creates a significant burden for patients. The limited public transit, the variable availability of ride-sharing, and the potential cost of medical **transportation** further compound the challenges.

The impact of these **transportation** challenges extends beyond mere inconvenience. It can affect patient adherence to treatment plans, leading to missed appointments, delayed diagnoses, and reduced treatment effectiveness. The stress of long commutes can also exacerbate the emotional and physical toll of cancer treatment, impacting overall quality of life.

For individuals **moving to Belmont**, the availability of healthcare services, especially for breast cancer, is a critical consideration. Prospective residents should carefully assess their **transportation** needs and explore all available options. This includes evaluating the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the potential costs of ride-sharing or medical **transportation**.

Furthermore, the community can play a vital role in improving **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients. This involves advocating for increased public **transportation** options, supporting local initiatives that provide **transportation** assistance, and raising awareness about the challenges faced by patients. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a more supportive environment for individuals navigating the complexities of breast cancer.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for 43718 reflects the challenges of accessing breast cancer care in a rural community. The combination of geographic isolation, limited **transportation** options, and potential financial burdens creates significant hurdles for patients. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including improving **transportation** infrastructure, expanding access to affordable **transportation** services, and fostering a supportive community environment. The goal is to ensure that all residents of 43718, regardless of their location or circumstances, have equitable access to the vital care and support they need to fight breast cancer.