44136, Strongsville, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44136, Strongsville, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

54.81 percent of residents in 44136 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Southwest General Health Center with a distance of 3.62 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44136**

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare access, is significant. This assessment focuses on transportation options for individuals residing in or considering a move to Strongsville, Ohio, ZIP code 44136, and their impact on accessing breast cancer screening and treatment. We will evaluate drive times, public transit routes, ride-share availability, and medical transport services, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to help assess the accessibility of healthcare resources. This score is designed to be a starting point for understanding the complexities of healthcare transportation in this area.

The journey to healthcare begins with understanding the geography. Strongsville, a suburb of Cleveland, offers a blend of residential areas and commercial hubs. The major thoroughfare is Interstate 71 (I-71), which dissects the city and provides access to Cleveland and surrounding areas. Ohio Route 82 (Royalton Road) and Ohio Route 42 (Pearl Road) are vital east-west arteries, connecting Strongsville to neighboring communities. These roads, along with smaller residential streets, form the network that dictates transportation choices.

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains the primary mode of transportation for many residents of 44136. The drive time to healthcare facilities is a critical factor, particularly for those facing breast cancer diagnoses and treatment. The Cleveland Clinic Breast Center at Fairview Hospital, a prominent facility, is approximately a 20- to 30-minute drive via I-71 North, depending on traffic. University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center, located in downtown Cleveland, could take 30 to 45 minutes, also via I-71, but potentially longer during rush hour.

Local hospitals like Southwest General Health Center in Middleburg Heights, accessible via I-71 South and Pearl Road, may offer shorter drive times, around 15 to 20 minutes. The travel time to these facilities can vary significantly based on traffic conditions, time of day, and the specific location within Strongsville. Residents living closer to major roads like Royalton Road may experience quicker access than those residing in more remote areas.

**Public Transit: A Network of Routes**

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) provides public transportation options for residents of 44136. While the area is not as densely served as the city center, several bus routes offer access to healthcare facilities. Route 83, the Strongsville-Shaker Rapid route, connects Strongsville to downtown Cleveland, providing access to major hospitals. This route, however, can be time-consuming, with a travel time of approximately one hour or more, depending on traffic and transfers.

Route 86, the Pearl Road route, offers access to healthcare facilities along Pearl Road, including Southwest General Health Center. This route provides a more direct connection to local healthcare options. GCRTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility features, including ramps and designated seating areas, making them accessible to individuals with mobility challenges. However, waiting times, transfer requirements, and the potential for longer travel times compared to driving are factors to consider.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: On-Demand Solutions**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Strongsville. These services offer on-demand transportation to healthcare appointments, providing a convenient alternative to driving or public transit. The cost of ride-shares can vary depending on demand, distance, and time of day. For those with mobility limitations or who cannot drive, ride-share services offer a valuable option.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide and MedTrans, specialize in providing transportation for medical appointments. These services offer door-to-door transportation, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff. Medical transport services may be covered by insurance, making them an affordable option for those needing assistance. The availability and cost of these services should be investigated based on individual needs and insurance coverage.

**Breast Cancer Score: Assessing Accessibility**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a qualitative assessment of healthcare accessibility based on the transportation options available in 44136. The score considers drive times, public transit convenience, ride-share availability, and medical transport options.

* **Drive Time:** Shorter drive times to healthcare facilities, particularly those under 20 minutes, contribute to a higher score. Longer drive times, especially those exceeding 45 minutes, negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The availability of direct and frequent bus routes to major healthcare facilities enhances the score. Long travel times, multiple transfers, and limited service hours detract from the score.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport:** The availability and affordability of ride-share services and medical transport options positively influence the score, providing alternative transportation solutions for those unable to drive or use public transit.

**Factors Affecting the Score:**

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Residents closer to healthcare facilities, such as Southwest General Health Center, will likely have a higher score due to shorter drive times and easier access.
* **Mobility Limitations:** Individuals with mobility limitations will benefit from the availability of accessible public transit, ride-share services, and medical transport.
* **Financial Constraints:** The cost of transportation, including gas, ride-share fares, and medical transport fees, can impact healthcare access, especially for those with limited financial resources.
* **Traffic Conditions:** Peak traffic times can significantly increase drive times, affecting the score.

**Moving to Strongsville: Healthcare Considerations**

For individuals considering a move to Strongsville, understanding healthcare access is crucial. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides a framework for evaluating transportation options and their impact on accessing breast cancer screening and treatment. Consider these factors when making your decision:

* **Proximity to Healthcare Facilities:** Prioritize locations with shorter drive times to hospitals and clinics.
* **Public Transit Access:** Evaluate the availability and convenience of public transit routes to healthcare facilities.
* **Ride-Share and Medical Transport Availability:** Assess the availability and cost of ride-share services and medical transport options.
* **Personal Mobility:** Consider your mobility needs and the availability of accessible transportation options.
* **Financial Resources:** Factor in the cost of transportation when budgeting for healthcare expenses.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a dynamic assessment, and the specific score will vary depending on individual circumstances and priorities. However, it provides a valuable starting point for understanding healthcare access in 44136 and making informed decisions about your health and well-being. The goal is to ensure that individuals have the resources and support they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively. Remember, healthcare access is a critical component of a healthy and fulfilling life, and careful planning is essential.