43733, Derwent, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43733, Derwent, Ohio is 14 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 43733 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southeastern Ohio Regional Medical Center with a distance of 8.11 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Derwent, Ohio (ZIP Code 43733)

The shadow of a breast cancer diagnosis looms large, casting a long shadow over life. Beyond the medical complexities, a crucial factor often overlooked is the accessibility of healthcare. For residents of Derwent, Ohio (ZIP Code 43733), the journey to quality breast cancer care involves navigating the intricacies of transportation. This write-up assesses the "Breast Cancer Score" for Derwent, considering the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, especially for those facing this challenging diagnosis.

Derwent, a small community nestled in Guernsey County, presents unique transportation challenges. The rural landscape and limited public transit options necessitate a deep understanding of available resources. For someone newly diagnosed, or undergoing treatment, the ability to get to appointments, treatments, and support services becomes paramount. This score considers the ease and reliability of these options.

**Driving the Distance: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of transportation in Derwent is, undoubtedly, the personal vehicle. The drive to specialized breast cancer care often involves traversing state routes and county roads. The closest major medical centers, equipped with comprehensive oncology services, are located in Cambridge and Zanesville.

Reaching Cambridge, the county seat, typically involves navigating **State Route 22** or **State Route 149**. The drive, depending on the specific location within 43733, can range from 15 to 30 minutes, assuming favorable traffic conditions. **State Route 22** offers a more direct route, while **State Route 149** provides a scenic alternative, but may involve more winding roads.

Zanesville, the county seat of Muskingum County, presents a longer journey. The most common route involves **Interstate 70 East**, requiring a drive of approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This route, though a major highway, can be susceptible to traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. Delays can be significant, adding stress and potential complications for individuals undergoing treatment.

For residents of Derwent, the reliability of a personal vehicle is crucial. Regular maintenance, fuel costs, and the physical demands of driving become significant considerations, especially for those experiencing treatment side effects.

**Public Transit: A Limited Lifeline**

Public transportation in Derwent is limited. The Guernsey County Transit System provides bus services within the county. However, the frequency and coverage of these routes are restricted, especially in the more rural areas of the ZIP code.

The availability of ADA-compliant buses is a critical factor. Individuals with mobility limitations, a common consequence of breast cancer treatment, require accessible transportation. The Guernsey County Transit System strives to provide accessible services, but riders should confirm the availability of these features when scheduling their trips.

The bus routes, while offering a potential solution, may involve multiple transfers and extended travel times. This can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, who may experience fatigue, nausea, or other debilitating side effects. Therefore, the reliance on public transit alone for breast cancer care is often impractical.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Cambridge and Zanesville areas. However, their availability in Derwent itself can be sporadic, especially during off-peak hours or in remote locations. Relying on ride-sharing requires advance planning and may incur higher costs due to surge pricing or longer travel distances.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance with appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedRide and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services typically offer door-to-door service, including assistance with boarding and disembarking. They often employ drivers trained to assist patients with mobility challenges.

While medical transportation provides a valuable resource, it often comes with a higher price tag. The cost can be a significant barrier for some patients, particularly those with limited financial resources.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and the Derwent Context**

Considering the available transportation options, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Derwent, Ohio (43733) reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit, and the variable availability of ride-sharing services create challenges for individuals seeking breast cancer care.

The drive times to medical centers in Cambridge and Zanesville are manageable, but the potential for traffic delays and the physical demands of driving can impact patients. The limited public transit options, while offering a potential solution, may not be feasible for all patients. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer alternative avenues, but their availability and cost can be significant barriers.

**Moving to Derwent: A Consideration for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering a move to Derwent, understanding the transportation landscape is crucial, especially if they have a history of breast cancer or are at high risk. The availability of reliable transportation is a significant factor in ensuring access to timely and comprehensive care.

Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and explore the available resources. This includes evaluating the accessibility of medical facilities, the reliability of personal vehicles, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transportation services.

**Improving the Score: Recommendations for Derwent**

To enhance the "Breast Cancer Score" for Derwent, several improvements are recommended. Expanding the frequency and coverage of the Guernsey County Transit System would significantly improve healthcare access. Increasing the availability of ADA-compliant buses is essential.

Promoting ride-sharing services in the Derwent area would provide a more convenient and accessible transportation option. Partnering with medical transportation providers to offer subsidized services to low-income patients would help reduce financial barriers.

Educating residents about available transportation resources, including public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transportation, is essential. This can be achieved through community outreach programs, informational materials, and partnerships with local healthcare providers.

By addressing these challenges, Derwent can improve its "Breast Cancer Score" and ensure that all residents have access to the care they need. The journey through breast cancer is challenging enough. Ensuring accessible and reliable transportation is a vital step in supporting patients and improving their quality of life.