44010, Austinburg, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44010, Austinburg, Ohio is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

44.71 percent of residents in 44010 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.46 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Uhhs Memorial Hospital Of Geneva with a distance of 5.58 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in Austinburg, Ohio (ZIP Code 44010)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for critical needs like breast cancer screening and treatment, is a significant factor when considering a move or assessing the resources of a community. In the charming village of Austinburg, Ohio, nestled within the 44010 ZIP code, the ease of access to specialized breast cancer services directly impacts the quality of life for residents. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape, evaluating the accessibility of healthcare facilities equipped to diagnose and treat breast cancer, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the community's capacity to support those facing this challenging disease.

Austinburg's location in Ashtabula County presents both opportunities and challenges regarding transportation. The rural setting necessitates reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. The primary arteries connecting Austinburg to healthcare providers are State Route 45, State Route 307, and Interstate 90. The drive times to facilities offering comprehensive breast cancer services are a crucial component of the score.

**Drive Times and Road Conditions**

The nearest hospital with a dedicated breast cancer center is University Hospitals Geneva Medical Center, approximately a 15-minute drive via State Route 45. This relatively short commute is a significant advantage for Austinburg residents. The route is generally well-maintained, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.

For more specialized care, including advanced imaging and surgical oncology, residents may need to travel to University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland, approximately an hour and 15-minute drive. This journey primarily involves Interstate 90 West, a major thoroughfare, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly extend the travel time. Road conditions on I-90 are typically good, but winter weather can present challenges.

Another option is the Cleveland Clinic, which is also approximately an hour and 15-minute drive, with similar road conditions and potential for traffic delays. This route often involves a combination of I-90 West and various local roads, depending on the specific destination within the Cleveland Clinic system. The distance and potential for delays contribute to a lower score in this category.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in Austinburg and Ashtabula County are limited. The Ashtabula County Transit (ACT) provides bus service, but routes are infrequent and primarily serve local areas. There are no direct routes connecting Austinburg to major hospitals in Cleveland. ACT buses are equipped with ADA features, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The lack of robust public transportation significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score. Relying solely on personal vehicles poses a challenge for those unable to drive, including individuals undergoing treatment or those without access to a car. This limitation highlights the need for alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability can be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some individuals, especially those requiring frequent trips for treatment.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals with medical needs. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including transportation to and from medical appointments. These services often accommodate individuals with mobility issues and offer door-to-door service. However, the cost of medical transport can be substantial, and availability may require advance booking.

**The Breast Cancer Score Calculation**

The Breast Cancer Score is calculated based on several factors: drive times to healthcare facilities, availability of public transportation, accessibility of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transport options. The score reflects the overall ease with which residents of Austinburg can access breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

The score is weighted based on the importance of each factor. Drive times to facilities with comprehensive breast cancer centers receive the highest weight, as timely access to care is crucial. The availability of public transportation and ride-sharing services also significantly impacts the score, particularly for individuals without personal vehicles. Medical transport options contribute to the score, providing a vital resource for those with specific transportation needs.

**Analysis and Recommendations**

Austinburg's Breast Cancer Score is moderately positive. The proximity to University Hospitals Geneva Medical Center provides a significant advantage. However, the longer drive times to specialized facilities in Cleveland, coupled with the limitations of public transportation, pose challenges.

To improve the score, several recommendations are proposed. Enhancing public transportation options by expanding ACT routes and increasing service frequency would significantly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also improve access.

Furthermore, promoting awareness of medical transport services and providing financial assistance to those in need could alleviate transportation barriers. Investing in community outreach programs to educate residents about breast cancer screening and treatment options is also vital.

**Conclusion: Accessing Healthcare in Austinburg**

The Breast Cancer Score for Austinburg, Ohio, reflects the community's commitment to healthcare access. While the village benefits from its proximity to University Hospitals Geneva Medical Center, the limitations of public transportation and the distance to specialized facilities in Cleveland present challenges. By addressing these transportation gaps and promoting awareness of available resources, Austinburg can improve its Breast Cancer Score and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need. This analysis offers insights for those considering moving to Austinburg, highlighting the importance of transportation in accessing vital healthcare services. The ability to navigate the transportation landscape is a key factor in supporting the health and well-being of the community, particularly for those facing the challenges of breast cancer.