43786, Stafford, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43786, Stafford, Ohio is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.31 percent of residents in 43786 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 19.60 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Barnesville Hospital Association, Inc with a distance of 19.79 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Stafford, Ohio (ZIP Code 43786)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for critical conditions like breast cancer, is a complex equation. It's a blend of medical expertise, emotional fortitude, and, crucially, accessible transportation. This report, a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, delves into the transportation landscape surrounding ZIP Code 43786 (Stafford, Ohio), assessing the ease with which residents can reach essential breast cancer services. This is particularly relevant for those contemplating moving to Stafford, Ohio, and seeking to understand the practicalities of healthcare access.

The score is not a numerical value, but rather a descriptive assessment, painting a picture of the realities of transportation and healthcare access. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, all vital components in a patient's ability to receive timely and appropriate care. The focus is on the practicalities of getting to appointments, treatments, and support services.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many in Stafford, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. The closest comprehensive breast cancer care centers are located in larger towns and cities, necessitating a drive. Assessing these drive times is fundamental to understanding healthcare access.

Traveling from Stafford, the most direct route to Marietta, Ohio, where some specialized care may be available, involves navigating the winding roads and State Route 7. The drive, depending on traffic and road conditions, can take approximately 45 minutes to an hour. This time frame assumes a smooth journey, but factors like weather, road closures, and the driver's physical condition can significantly impact travel.

For more advanced treatment options, including surgical oncology and radiation therapy, residents might need to travel to Zanesville, Ohio. This journey involves using State Route 26 and potentially connecting to Interstate 77. The drive time to Zanesville can range from 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Interstate 77, while a faster route, may experience congestion during peak hours.

The drive to larger cities like Columbus, Ohio, with major medical centers, is a more considerable undertaking. This trip, typically involving State Route 26 and Interstate 70, can take upwards of 2 to 2.5 hours. This extended travel time adds to the physical and emotional burden of a breast cancer diagnosis.

**Public Transit: A Limited Landscape**

Public transportation options in Stafford are limited. The area is largely rural, and comprehensive public transit systems are not readily available. This lack of public transit poses a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles, or those unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects.

While specific bus routes and their schedules are subject to change, it's unlikely that a robust public transit system exists within Stafford. Individuals relying on public transit will likely face significant challenges in accessing breast cancer services, requiring multiple transfers, lengthy travel times, and potential accessibility issues. ADA-compliant buses, if available, are essential, but their frequency and route coverage are critical factors.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may be available in the area, but their presence and reliability are not guaranteed. Availability often depends on driver density and demand. The cost of ride-sharing can also quickly accumulate, especially for frequent appointments and treatments.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option, catering to individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring medical assistance during transport. These services often involve trained personnel and vehicles equipped to accommodate medical needs. However, medical transport can be expensive, and availability may be limited, particularly in rural areas.

**The Human Element: Emotional and Physical Strain**

Beyond the practicalities of transportation, the emotional and physical toll of breast cancer must be considered. The stress of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be overwhelming. The added burden of navigating complex transportation logistics can exacerbate these challenges. The ability to easily access healthcare is essential for a patient's well-being.

**Healthcare Access: A Critical Consideration**

The "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of considering healthcare access when evaluating a move to Stafford. The distance to specialized care, the limitations of public transit, and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport all contribute to the overall picture.

For individuals with a breast cancer diagnosis or those at high risk, the availability of reliable and accessible transportation is paramount. This is particularly true for those considering moving to Stafford, Ohio. The decision to relocate should factor in the time and effort required to reach healthcare providers.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

Individuals considering a move to Stafford, Ohio, and those currently residing there, should carefully assess their transportation options and healthcare needs. Researching local medical facilities, understanding the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and exploring potential support networks are essential steps.

The "Breast Cancer Score" emphasizes the need for proactive planning. Seeking information from local healthcare providers, contacting transportation services, and connecting with support groups can help individuals navigate the complexities of healthcare access in Stafford.

This report is a starting point for understanding the transportation landscape surrounding breast cancer care in Stafford, Ohio. The realities of healthcare access are complex and ever-changing. The information provided is intended to offer a valuable perspective for individuals and families navigating the challenges of breast cancer and seeking to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.