43771, Philo, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43771, Philo, Ohio is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

46.61 percent of residents in 43771 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 21.37 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Genesis Hospital with a distance of 10.61 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Philo, OH (ZIP Code 43771)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis, extends far beyond the doctor's office. It encompasses the often-overlooked, yet critical, aspect of transportation. In Philo, Ohio (ZIP code 43771), understanding the available transportation options is crucial for assessing healthcare access, especially for individuals considering moving to this community. This analysis, framed as a "Breast Cancer Score," considers drive times, public transit, and ride-sharing/medical transport, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation landscape.

Philo, a small village nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. The community's relative isolation, coupled with the limited public transit infrastructure, significantly impacts healthcare access. The "Breast Cancer Score" for Philo will be determined by evaluating the ease of reaching essential healthcare services, specifically those related to breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For residents of Philo, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. The drive times to key healthcare facilities are a critical factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." The nearest major medical center, Genesis Hospital in Zanesville, is approximately a 15-20 minute drive, primarily via State Route 77. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage for Philo residents. The smooth, well-maintained roads generally provide a reliable and efficient route.

However, the reliance on personal vehicles presents potential obstacles. Weather conditions, particularly during Ohio's harsh winters, can significantly impact travel times and safety. Snow and ice can transform a 20-minute drive into a treacherous and time-consuming journey. The availability of reliable transportation, including vehicle maintenance and insurance, becomes paramount.

Specialized breast cancer centers, such as those offering advanced imaging and surgical services, might necessitate longer commutes. The OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus, a center of excellence for cancer care, is approximately a 1 hour and 45-minute drive, primarily via I-70 West. This longer commute introduces considerations of fatigue, cost of fuel, and the need for support from family or friends.

**Public Transit: A Limited Reach**

Public transit options in Philo are extremely limited, significantly impacting the "Breast Cancer Score." The Muskingum Area Transit System (MATS) provides some service to the area, but its routes and schedules are not designed to accommodate frequent trips to medical appointments. The limited service frequency and potential for long wait times can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue and mobility limitations.

MATS offers some ADA-accessible vehicles, which is a crucial consideration for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. However, the availability of these accessible vehicles and the overall route coverage remain a concern. The lack of readily available public transportation severely limits healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or the ability to drive. The “Breast Cancer Score” suffers due to this deficiency.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Zanesville area, but their reliability and availability in Philo can be inconsistent. The limited driver pool and the potential for surge pricing during peak hours or inclement weather can create financial and logistical burdens. The “Breast Cancer Score” is affected by this uncertainty.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. These services often provide door-to-door transportation and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, representing a significant financial barrier for some patients. Researching the availability and cost of these services is a crucial component of the "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Moving to Philo**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Philo, Ohio, reflects a mixed bag of transportation realities. The relatively short drive to Genesis Hospital provides a baseline level of healthcare access. However, the limitations of public transit, the potential unreliability of ride-sharing, and the cost of medical transport significantly detract from the overall score.

For individuals considering moving to Philo, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or at high risk, a thorough assessment of transportation options is essential. This includes evaluating the availability of family or friends to provide transportation, the feasibility of maintaining a personal vehicle, and the financial implications of utilizing ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not simply a number; it is a reflection of the lived experience of navigating healthcare access in a rural community. The availability of reliable transportation is not just a convenience; it is a fundamental aspect of healthcare equity. Understanding the transportation landscape is critical for making informed decisions about healthcare and the quality of life in Philo, Ohio.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Enhancing the "Breast Cancer Score" for Philo and similar communities requires a multi-pronged approach. Increased investment in public transit, including expanded routes, increased frequency, and improved accessibility, is paramount. Partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation services can help streamline patient transportation. Community-based programs that offer volunteer driver services or subsidized transportation assistance can also play a vital role.

Ultimately, improving healthcare access in Philo requires a commitment to addressing the transportation challenges that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. By focusing on these crucial aspects of transportation, the community can significantly improve the "Breast Cancer Score" and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need.