43736, Fairview, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43736, Fairview, Ohio is 50 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.00 percent of residents in 43736 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.22 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 5.19 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 43736**

The quest for accessible healthcare, especially in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis, demands a thorough understanding of transportation options. For residents of ZIP Code 43736, a rural area, the journey to quality care involves navigating a complex landscape of roads, public transit, and alternative transportation solutions. This analysis, our "Breast Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services, considering the practical realities of commuting from this specific location.

The primary challenge for residents of 43736 is the relative isolation. Fairview, Ohio, the main community within this ZIP code, is nestled amidst rolling hills and farmlands. The nearest significant medical facilities, equipped with comprehensive breast cancer services, are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating travel. This immediately impacts healthcare access, especially for those with limited mobility or financial resources.

The most common mode of transportation for those in 43736 is the personal vehicle. The primary arteries connecting Fairview to healthcare hubs are State Route 149 and U.S. Route 22. Heading east on SR-149 leads to Barnesville, a town with some local medical services. However, for more specialized care, such as mammograms, biopsies, or oncology consultations, patients often need to travel further. Heading west on SR-149 connects to U.S. Route 22, which leads to St. Clairsville and Wheeling, West Virginia, both offering more extensive medical facilities.

The drive times to these healthcare destinations vary significantly depending on traffic and weather conditions. A trip to Barnesville might take 15-20 minutes, a manageable commute. However, reaching St. Clairsville or Wheeling can easily extend to 30-45 minutes or even longer during peak hours. This time commitment, coupled with the potential for fatigue and discomfort, can be a significant burden for individuals undergoing treatment or frequent check-ups.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural setting. There are no established bus routes that directly serve Fairview. The closest public transit options may be found in St. Clairsville or Wheeling, but these services are not designed to connect directly with 43736. The absence of a reliable public transportation system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access, especially for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. The lack of ADA-compliant features on any available public transit further exacerbates the challenges for individuals with disabilities.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence and availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The cost of a ride-share trip to a distant medical facility could be a financial strain, especially for those with limited incomes. The reliability of ride-sharing services, particularly during inclement weather or at off-peak hours, is also a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a potential solution. Several companies provide these services in the area, but availability and cost vary. These services often require pre-booking, and the cost can be substantial, depending on the distance and the specific needs of the patient. Investigating the availability and cost of these services is crucial for residents of 43736 seeking reliable transportation to healthcare appointments.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 43736 is negatively impacted by the lack of readily available transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles, the absence of robust public transit, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transportation services create significant challenges for healthcare access. This is especially concerning for individuals undergoing treatment or facing frequent appointments.

For individuals moving to Fairview, the transportation infrastructure should be a critical consideration. Prospective residents should carefully assess their ability to travel to healthcare facilities, considering the drive times, the potential for traffic delays, and the availability of alternative transportation options.

The accessibility of healthcare is a crucial factor in the quality of life. The transportation challenges faced by residents of 43736 highlight the need for creative solutions. Community initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, could help bridge the gap in healthcare access. The expansion of public transit, even in a limited capacity, could provide a lifeline for those without access to personal vehicles.

Furthermore, telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring, can play a vital role in mitigating the transportation challenges. Telehealth can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, making healthcare more accessible for residents of 43736.

In conclusion, the "Breast Cancer Score" for 43736 reflects the complex interplay between geography, transportation, and healthcare access. While the area offers a peaceful rural setting, the lack of readily available transportation options presents a significant barrier to healthcare, especially for those battling breast cancer. Addressing these transportation challenges is essential to ensure that all residents of 43736 have equitable access to the care they need. The availability of reliable transportation is critical for timely diagnoses, effective treatment, and ultimately, improved health outcomes.