43840, Stone Creek, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43840, Stone Creek, Ohio is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

53.39 percent of residents in 43840 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.48 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 10.73 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Stone Creek, Ohio (ZIP Code 43840)

The quaint village of Stone Creek, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Tuscarawas County (ZIP code 43840), presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities when considering healthcare access, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis. Understanding the landscape of transportation options is paramount, as the journey to quality care can significantly impact a patient's well-being. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate these factors, providing a comprehensive overview of the transportation infrastructure and its implications for healthcare access in Stone Creek.

The cornerstone of transportation in and around Stone Creek is the reliance on personal vehicles. The primary arteries connecting the village to larger medical centers are State Route 256 and State Route 39. These roads, while offering relatively straightforward access, can be subject to traffic, especially during peak hours and inclement weather. The drive to the nearest comprehensive cancer center, Aultman Hospital in Canton, can take approximately one hour, depending on traffic conditions, which is a considerable commitment for regular appointments, treatments, and follow-up care.

The availability of public transit in Stone Creek is limited, posing a significant barrier for those without personal vehicles. The Tuscarawas County Transportation System (TCTS) provides some services, but its routes and schedules are not specifically designed to cater to the needs of cancer patients. Services are often demand-response, requiring advance booking and potentially involving multiple transfers, which can be physically and emotionally draining for individuals undergoing treatment. The TCTS vehicles are generally ADA-accessible, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can access the service, though the overall reach and frequency of the service may not be sufficient for consistent healthcare needs.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of drivers can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in more rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also accumulate quickly, becoming a significant financial burden for patients facing ongoing medical expenses. While these services offer a degree of flexibility, they are not always a reliable or affordable solution for consistent transportation to and from medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients requiring assistance, are another option. Companies specializing in non-emergency medical transport (NEMT) offer door-to-door service, often with trained personnel and specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate patients with mobility challenges. However, the availability of these services in Stone Creek and the surrounding areas needs to be thoroughly investigated. The cost of NEMT can vary depending on the distance and level of care required, and it is essential to determine whether insurance coverage is available to offset these expenses.

The Breast Cancer Score for Stone Creek, therefore, reflects the intricate interplay of these transportation factors. The reliance on personal vehicles presents a challenge for those without access to a car or those who are unable to drive due to their illness or treatment side effects. The limited public transit options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services further compound these difficulties. While medical transportation services offer a more specialized solution, their availability and cost must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering a move to Stone Creek, or for current residents facing a breast cancer diagnosis, a proactive approach to transportation planning is crucial. Before making any decisions, it is important to thoroughly research the availability and accessibility of all transportation options. This includes contacting the TCTS to inquire about specific routes and schedules, investigating the availability of ride-sharing services, and researching medical transportation providers in the area. It is also important to discuss transportation needs with the healthcare providers at the chosen cancer center, as they may be able to provide recommendations or assistance with accessing transportation resources.

The distance to comprehensive cancer centers, like Aultman Hospital, is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score. The travel time, which can be up to an hour, can add considerable stress and fatigue to the patient's journey. The journey itself, navigating State Route 256 and State Route 39, requires careful planning, especially during inclement weather or peak traffic hours. The patient's ability to drive, or have a reliable driver, is paramount.

The financial implications of transportation must also be carefully considered. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, and parking fees can quickly accumulate. Ride-sharing and medical transportation services can also add to the financial burden. Exploring all available financial assistance programs, such as those offered by cancer support organizations or insurance providers, is essential to mitigate these costs.

Healthcare access is not merely about the availability of medical services; it is also about the ability to reach those services. In Stone Creek, the transportation landscape presents a unique set of challenges for breast cancer patients. While the village offers a tranquil setting, the distance to comprehensive cancer centers and the limitations of public transportation require careful consideration.

The Breast Cancer Score for Stone Creek highlights the importance of proactive planning, resourcefulness, and community support. By understanding the transportation challenges and exploring all available options, patients can navigate the complexities of healthcare access with greater confidence and ease. For those considering moving to Stone Creek, a thorough assessment of transportation needs is a critical step in ensuring access to the necessary care. The journey to recovery is challenging enough; ensuring access to the necessary transportation should not be another obstacle.