43730, Corning, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43730, Corning, Ohio is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.70 percent of residents in 43730 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.89 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hocking Valley Community Hospital with a distance of 17.48 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Corning, Ohio (ZIP Code 43730)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, demanding not only expert medical care but also a supportive environment. For residents of Corning, Ohio (ZIP code 43730), access to timely and comprehensive breast cancer care is crucial. This analysis explores the transportation landscape surrounding healthcare facilities offering breast cancer services, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to gauge the ease with which residents can access essential care. This score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. The goal is to illuminate the realities of healthcare access for those living in Corning, Ohio, and to assist anyone considering moving to the area.

Corning, nestled in Perry County, presents unique transportation challenges. The area is primarily rural, with limited public transportation infrastructure. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. This reality significantly impacts healthcare access, particularly for those without vehicles or who face mobility limitations.

**Drive Times: The Cornerstone of Access**

The most immediate consideration for healthcare access is the drive time to facilities offering breast cancer services. In the absence of a dedicated cancer center within Corning, residents typically travel to larger towns and cities for treatment and diagnosis.

The closest major healthcare hub is the OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital in Athens, Ohio. A drive to Athens from Corning, using State Route 37 and US-33, is approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within Corning. This drive time is generally manageable, allowing for relatively quick access to a full-service hospital with oncology services.

Further afield, Columbus, Ohio, offers a wider array of specialized cancer centers, including the James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University. The drive to Columbus from Corning, primarily via US-33, is significantly longer, ranging from 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes. This extended drive time can be a significant barrier for those undergoing frequent treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Zanesville, Ohio, another potential destination for healthcare, is accessible via State Route 13 and US-22. The drive time is approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This option offers a balance between proximity and the availability of specialized services.

These drive times are critical. They influence the patient's ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and receive timely care. The longer the drive, the greater the potential for fatigue, stress, and missed appointments. The "Breast Cancer Score" will consider these drive times in its assessment.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Perry County is severely limited. The lack of robust public transit is a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles or those who cannot drive.

The Southeast Ohio Public Transportation (SEOT) provides limited bus service within Perry County, but routes and schedules are infrequent and do not directly connect Corning to Athens, Zanesville, or Columbus. This makes public transit an impractical option for most breast cancer patients seeking specialized care.

The lack of ADA-accessible public transit further exacerbates the problem for individuals with mobility impairments. The absence of reliable public transit significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score," as it limits healthcare access for a vulnerable population.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their presence is often inconsistent, particularly in rural areas like Corning. Availability can be limited, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying on ride-sharing for regular medical appointments can be unreliable and expensive.

Medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedStar and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be pre-booked and offer a more reliable option for patients who cannot drive or lack access to transportation. However, these services can be costly and require advance planning.

The availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation services will be factored into the "Breast Cancer Score," acknowledging their role in bridging the healthcare access gap.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Methodology**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Corning, Ohio, will be a composite score based on the following factors:

* **Drive Time:** The primary weighting will be on the average drive time to the nearest comprehensive cancer center (OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital). Longer drive times will negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The absence of reliable public transit will significantly lower the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** The inconsistent availability of ride-sharing services will negatively impact the score.
* **Medical Transportation:** The availability and cost of medical transportation services will be considered, with higher costs and limited availability negatively affecting the score.
* **Proximity to Support Services:** The availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, in the immediate area will positively influence the score.

**Scoring Rubric:**

* **Excellent (80-100):** Easy access to comprehensive breast cancer care within a reasonable drive time, with reliable public transit or readily available and affordable transportation alternatives.
* **Good (60-79):** Access to care within a manageable drive time, with some transportation challenges but viable alternatives.
* **Fair (40-59):** Significant transportation challenges, with longer drive times and limited transportation options.
* **Poor (20-39):** Limited access to care due to long drive times, lack of public transit, and unreliable or expensive transportation options.
* **Very Poor (0-19):** Severe barriers to accessing breast cancer care.

**Preliminary "Breast Cancer Score" Assessment for Corning, Ohio (43730)**

Based on the factors outlined above, a preliminary "Breast Cancer Score" for Corning, Ohio, would likely fall in the "Fair" to "Good" range. The relatively short drive to Athens for basic care is a positive factor. However, the lack of public transit, the inconsistent availability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transportation services negatively impact the score. The score would be improved with greater availability of medical transportation services and a more reliable public transit system.

**Moving to Corning: A Healthcare Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Corning, Ohio, the "Breast Cancer Score" provides valuable insight into healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful, rural environment, potential residents must be aware of the transportation challenges. Those with breast cancer or at high risk should carefully consider the drive times to healthcare facilities and the availability of transportation options. Careful planning and consideration of these factors are essential for ensuring access to timely and appropriate care.

The "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape in Corning. It highlights the importance of transportation in accessing critical medical services and underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for all residents. Further research into specific healthcare providers, insurance coverage, and support services is recommended for a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare options available in the area.