43739, Glenford, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43739, Glenford, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.33 percent of residents in 43739 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.16 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Licking Memorial Hospital with a distance of 13.20 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Glenford, Ohio (ZIP Code 43739)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a critical diagnosis like breast cancer, transcends mere geography. It becomes a complex equation of time, resources, and accessibility, impacting not only treatment outcomes but also the overall quality of life. In Glenford, Ohio (ZIP Code 43739), this equation takes on a specific character, shaped by the area's rural nature and the limitations of its **transportation** infrastructure. This assessment aims to unpack the realities of **healthcare access** for breast cancer patients in Glenford, providing a comprehensive "Breast Cancer Score" based on available **transportation** options. It’s designed to inform potential residents, particularly those considering **moving to Glenford**, about the practicalities of receiving timely and effective care.

The Breast Cancer Score considers factors such as drive times to major medical facilities, availability of public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options. We will examine these elements, offering a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by individuals navigating the healthcare system in this specific ZIP code.

### The Driving Force: Navigating the Roads

For many Glenford residents, the car remains the primary mode of **transportation**. The nearest comprehensive cancer care centers are located in Zanesville, approximately 20 miles east, and Columbus, roughly 45 miles west. The drive to Zanesville, primarily via State Route 204 and then US-22, typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific destination within the city. This drive is generally straightforward, but weather conditions, particularly during Ohio's harsh winters, can significantly impact travel times and safety.

The journey to Columbus presents a more significant challenge. The most direct route involves taking State Route 13 south to I-70 west. This drive can take anywhere from 50 minutes to over an hour, especially during peak commuting hours. The I-70 corridor is prone to congestion, and any delays can add considerable stress for individuals undergoing treatment, requiring frequent appointments, and potentially experiencing side effects from their therapies.

The availability of parking at these medical facilities is another consideration. While most hospitals and cancer centers offer parking, costs and the potential for long walks from parking areas can be a burden for patients. Valet parking may be available at some facilities, but this adds to the overall expense.

### Public Transit: A Limited Option

Public transit options in Glenford are extremely limited. The area lacks a dedicated bus system, and regional transit services are infrequent and may not directly serve the needs of cancer patients. The lack of reliable public **transportation** represents a significant barrier to **healthcare access** for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. This limitation disproportionately affects seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While some regional transit authorities may offer demand-response services, such as dial-a-ride programs, these services often require advance booking and may have limited operating hours. Furthermore, they may not be equipped to handle the specific needs of cancer patients, such as accommodating wheelchairs or providing assistance with mobility. The lack of robust public transit significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score for Glenford.

### Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, though their reliability and cost can vary. Availability is often dependent on driver density, which may be lower in rural areas like Glenford. The cost of frequent rides to and from medical appointments can quickly become a significant financial burden, especially for patients facing the financial strain of cancer treatment.

Medical **transportation** services offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services are designed to accommodate patients with mobility limitations and can offer door-to-door service. However, these services typically come at a higher cost than ride-sharing, and availability may be limited, particularly for same-day appointments.

The availability of these services adds some positive points to the Breast Cancer Score, but the cost and potential for delays remain significant concerns.

### The Score: A Holistic View

Considering the factors discussed, the Breast Cancer Score for Glenford, Ohio (ZIP Code 43739) is moderate. The availability of drive times to medical centers is reasonable, but the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic delays create challenges. The limited public transit options significantly detract from the score. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offer alternative solutions, but their cost and potential for delays need to be considered.

For individuals **moving to Glenford** or already residing there, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Evaluate your ability to drive and maintain a vehicle.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing:** Familiarize yourself with ride-sharing options and their associated costs.
* **Investigate Medical Transport:** Research medical **transportation** services and their insurance coverage.
* **Plan for Appointments:** Schedule appointments strategically, considering travel times and potential delays.
* **Advocate for Improved Access:** Support initiatives aimed at improving public transit and **healthcare access** in the area.

### Conclusion: A Call for Action

The Breast Cancer Score for Glenford highlights the complex interplay between **transportation** and **healthcare access**. While the area offers some options for accessing care, the limitations of public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles create significant challenges for breast cancer patients. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach, including advocating for improved public **transportation**, expanding access to affordable ride-sharing services, and supporting the availability of medical **transportation** options. By understanding the realities of **healthcare access** in Glenford, potential residents can make informed decisions about **moving to Glenford**, and current residents can proactively navigate the healthcare system and advocate for positive change. The journey to health should not be hampered by the journey to the hospital.