43747, Jerusalem, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43747, Jerusalem, Ohio is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.83 percent of residents in 43747 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.38 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 10.45 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jerusalem, OH (ZIP Code 43747)

The diagnosis of breast cancer is a life-altering event, demanding not only immediate medical attention but also a complex navigation of healthcare resources. For residents of Jerusalem, Ohio (ZIP Code 43747), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and recovery is often intertwined with the challenges of transportation. This write-up explores the accessibility of breast cancer care within and beyond this rural community, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment based on transportation options.

Jerusalem, nestled in Monroe County, presents a unique landscape. The community's relative isolation necessitates a careful consideration of transportation limitations. The nearest comprehensive healthcare facilities equipped for breast cancer diagnosis and treatment are primarily located in larger cities, creating a significant transportation hurdle for residents. This is especially crucial for those facing physical limitations or financial constraints.

The primary mode of transportation for most residents is personal vehicles. Driving is often the most direct route, but the distances involved can be substantial. To reach Wheeling Hospital in Wheeling, West Virginia, a common destination for specialized medical care, the journey typically involves navigating **Ohio Route 7** and **I-70 West**. The drive, approximately 30 miles, usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. This time can be significantly impacted by inclement weather, common in the region.

For those seeking care at OhioHealth hospitals in Zanesville, a journey of roughly 70 miles, the route involves **Ohio Route 7**, **Ohio Route 145**, and eventually **I-70 West**. This drive can easily consume one and a half to two hours, making multiple appointments in a single day a logistical challenge. The time commitment alone can be a significant source of stress for patients already grappling with the emotional and physical toll of breast cancer.

Public transportation options are limited in this rural area. The lack of a robust public transit system presents a considerable barrier to healthcare access. There are no dedicated bus routes directly serving Jerusalem, making it difficult for those without personal vehicles to reach medical appointments. This lack of public transit disproportionately affects elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While specific route numbers are unavailable for public transit directly serving Jerusalem, it is important to note that the nearest public transportation hubs are located in larger towns like Wheeling or Zanesville. These services might offer some accessibility features, such as ADA-compliant buses, but the initial journey to the hub and the potential for multiple transfers can be daunting for patients.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not as consistent as in urban areas. The availability of drivers, especially during off-peak hours or for long-distance trips, can be unpredictable. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent medical appointments. This factor adds another layer of complexity to healthcare access.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Several companies operate in the region, including some that may serve Jerusalem. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. However, these services can be costly, and their availability may be limited depending on insurance coverage and the patient's specific needs.

The Breast Cancer Score for Jerusalem, Ohio (ZIP Code 43747) is therefore significantly impacted by the challenges of transportation. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential for unreliable or expensive ride-sharing services create barriers to healthcare access.

The impact of these transportation limitations extends beyond the simple inconvenience of travel. It can affect the timeliness of diagnosis, the regularity of treatment, and the overall quality of life for breast cancer patients. Delays in accessing care can lead to poorer outcomes, emphasizing the critical importance of addressing these transportation challenges.

The emotional and physical toll of breast cancer can be exacerbated by the stress of navigating transportation. Patients may experience increased anxiety, fatigue, and isolation due to the difficulties of reaching medical appointments. This can hinder their ability to focus on their treatment and recovery.

The financial implications of transportation are also significant. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, and medical transportation can add up quickly, placing a strain on patients' budgets. This can create additional stress and potentially lead to difficult choices regarding healthcare.

For those considering moving to Jerusalem, Ohio, or for existing residents seeking healthcare, a careful evaluation of transportation options is essential. Prospective residents should assess their ability to drive, the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, and the affordability of alternative transportation services.

The community can also take steps to improve healthcare access for breast cancer patients. This might include advocating for expanded public transit options, partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation, and supporting medical transportation providers. Community-based initiatives, such as volunteer driver programs, can also provide crucial assistance.

The Breast Cancer Score for Jerusalem, Ohio, is a reflection of the community's overall health and well-being. Addressing the transportation challenges is crucial for ensuring that all residents have equal access to the life-saving care they need.

In conclusion, the transportation landscape in Jerusalem, Ohio, presents significant hurdles for breast cancer patients. The long drive times, limited public transit, and potential for unreliable or costly ride-sharing services contribute to a lower Breast Cancer Score. Improving transportation access is essential for ensuring that residents of Jerusalem, Ohio, have the opportunity to receive timely and effective breast cancer care. The journey to healthcare, especially when facing a diagnosis like breast cancer, should not be further complicated by transportation barriers. It is a journey that requires support, compassion, and a commitment to ensuring that all residents can access the care they need, regardless of their location or circumstances.