43843, Walhonding, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 43843, Walhonding, Ohio is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.85 percent of residents in 43843 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Knox Community Hospital with a distance of 15.23 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Walhonding, Ohio (ZIP Code 43843)**

The journey to healthcare, especially for critical screenings like mammograms, is a significant factor in a community's overall well-being. For residents of Walhonding, Ohio (ZIP Code 43843), understanding the available transportation options and their associated challenges is paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, focusing on transportation accessibility to healthcare facilities offering breast cancer screening and treatment within a reasonable radius. This score considers drive times, public transit availability, ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transport options, providing a comprehensive view of healthcare access for those living in or considering moving to this rural community.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Screening**

The primary mode of transportation for most Walhonding residents is undoubtedly personal vehicles. The availability of a car is crucial for accessing healthcare, as public transit options are limited. Considering the geography, the major roadways influencing healthcare access are State Route 715, State Route 541, and State Route 20. These roads, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays due to weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.

The nearest hospitals and medical centers equipped for breast cancer screening and treatment are located in surrounding towns and cities. The drive time to Coshocton Regional Hospital, a primary healthcare provider, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the specific location within ZIP Code 43843 and traffic conditions. This journey typically involves navigating State Route 715 and then connecting to State Route 541.

Traveling further afield, residents might consider facilities in Zanesville, Ohio, which could offer a wider range of specialized services. This drive, predominantly via State Route 541 and then US-22, could take approximately 45-60 minutes, significantly increasing the time commitment and potential for transportation challenges.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Walhonding and the surrounding areas are severely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive. This lack of public transportation severely impacts the "Breast Cancer Score" for the area, particularly for elderly residents, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

While specific bus routes may exist, they are typically infrequent and may not directly serve healthcare facilities. Residents would likely need to rely on a combination of routes and transfers, significantly extending travel times and adding complexity to the journey. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is also a critical consideration, as it directly impacts healthcare access for individuals with mobility impairments. The absence of detailed information on bus routes and ADA accessibility further diminishes the "Breast Cancer Score."

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, may operate in the area, but their availability is often limited, especially in rural communities. The reliability of these services can vary depending on the time of day, demand, and driver availability. Relying solely on ride-sharing for healthcare appointments can be risky, as delays or cancellations could result in missed screenings or treatments.

Specialized medical transport services offer a more reliable option for individuals needing assistance with transportation. These services, which may include non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), are designed to provide door-to-door service for medical appointments. However, the availability of NEMT services in Walhonding and the associated costs need to be carefully considered. The "Breast Cancer Score" benefits from the existence of medical transport, but it is diminished if these services are expensive or difficult to access.

**Medical Transport Brands and Options**

Several brands may provide medical transport services in the region. Companies like CareRide, American Medical Response (AMR), and local ambulance services are likely providers. However, the specific services offered and their coverage area vary. It is essential for residents to research and identify the available options, including their costs, insurance coverage, and accessibility features.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" and Considerations for Moving**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Walhonding, Ohio, reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access due to limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles and the scarcity of public transit create significant barriers for many residents. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services can mitigate these challenges, but their reliability and cost must be carefully considered.

For individuals considering moving to Walhonding, healthcare access should be a primary concern. Before relocating, prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and identify the available healthcare facilities in the area. They should also research the availability of ride-sharing, medical transport services, and any potential public transit options.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not simply a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experience of accessing healthcare. It underscores the importance of transportation in ensuring timely screenings, diagnoses, and treatments. The score highlights the need for community initiatives to improve healthcare access, such as advocating for expanded public transit, supporting ride-sharing programs, and promoting the availability of affordable medical transport services. These efforts are crucial for improving the health and well-being of Walhonding residents and for making the community a more accessible and welcoming place for everyone. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a valuable framework for understanding and addressing the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access in this rural Ohio community.