44234, Hiram, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44234, Hiram, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

55.16 percent of residents in 44234 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is University Hospitals Portage Medical Center with a distance of 11.23 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in 44234

The decision to relocate, especially when considering healthcare needs, is deeply personal. For those contemplating a move to Hiram, Ohio, ZIP code 44234, understanding access to breast cancer screening and treatment is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and healthcare facilities within and around this community, aiming to illuminate the realities of healthcare access. This score reflects the ease with which residents can reach essential medical services, impacting their overall well-being.

The Breast Cancer Score considers several key factors: drive times to hospitals and clinics offering breast cancer services, the availability and accessibility of public transportation, the presence of ride-sharing and medical transport options, and the overall density of healthcare resources. This is not a definitive medical assessment, but rather a guide to understanding the transportation landscape that shapes healthcare access.

Hiram, a charming village nestled in Portage County, presents a unique challenge. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its relative remoteness requires careful consideration of transportation logistics. The nearest major medical centers are located in surrounding cities, necessitating reliance on personal vehicles, public transit, or alternative transportation methods. This is especially critical for individuals requiring frequent appointments or treatments.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The most direct route to healthcare facilities typically involves personal vehicles. Driving times, however, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, time of day, and the specific destination. For breast cancer services, the primary destinations are likely to be hospitals and specialized clinics in nearby cities.

To University Hospitals (UH) Portage Medical Center in Ravenna, a drive via State Route 700 and State Route 14 typically takes approximately 20-25 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. UH Portage offers a comprehensive breast health center.

Cleveland Clinic Akron General, located in Akron, requires a drive of about 45-60 minutes, primarily via State Route 700, Interstate 76, and Interstate 77. This facility provides advanced cancer care, including specialized breast cancer treatment.

For those seeking specialized care, the drive to the Cleveland Clinic main campus, located in Cleveland, can take upwards of 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This route generally involves Interstate 480 and Interstate 77. The Cleveland Clinic is a nationally recognized cancer center.

These drive times highlight the importance of considering the burden of travel, particularly for patients undergoing treatment. The time spent commuting can significantly impact the patient's physical and emotional well-being.

**Public Transportation: Navigating the System**

Public transportation options in and around Hiram are limited. The Portage Area Regional Transportation AuthorityRegional Transportation Authority (PARTA) provides bus service in Portage County. However, the routes and schedules may not directly connect Hiram with major medical centers.

PARTA Route 100, which serves the Ravenna area, might be an option, requiring transfers and potentially extended travel times. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical consideration. PARTA buses are equipped with ADA-compliant features, including ramps and designated seating. However, the frequency of service and the complexity of transfers may pose challenges for patients.

The lack of direct public transportation to major healthcare facilities underscores the need for alternative transportation solutions for those without personal vehicles.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area and can offer a convenient alternative to driving, especially for those who cannot drive themselves. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and other specialized companies, provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services are designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. They often offer door-to-door service and may be covered by insurance, depending on the policy.

The availability and cost of these services should be carefully evaluated when assessing healthcare access. The convenience of these options can significantly improve the patient's experience, reducing the stress associated with travel.

**Healthcare Density and Resources: A Holistic View**

The density of healthcare resources in and around Hiram is a crucial factor. While Hiram itself may not have a dedicated breast cancer center, the proximity to hospitals and clinics in Ravenna, Akron, and Cleveland provides access to a range of services.

The presence of specialized breast cancer centers, diagnostic imaging facilities, and oncology practices within a reasonable driving distance is a positive indicator of healthcare access. The availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, also contributes to the overall quality of care.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

Based on the analysis of transportation options and healthcare resources, the Breast Cancer Score for ZIP code 44234 reflects a mixed picture. While the availability of healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance is a positive factor, the limited public transportation options and the potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services pose challenges.

The score is influenced by the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Moderate drive times to major medical centers.
* **Public Transportation:** Limited public transportation options, with potential for extended travel times and transfers.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Availability of ride-sharing services and medical transport options, but with potential cost considerations.
* **Healthcare Density:** Proximity to hospitals and clinics offering breast cancer services.

**Moving to Hiram: Informed Decisions**

For individuals considering moving to Hiram, a thorough understanding of healthcare access is essential. This analysis provides a framework for evaluating the transportation landscape and the availability of healthcare resources.

Potential residents should:

* Assess their transportation needs and preferences.
* Research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services.
* Explore the potential for utilizing PARTA services, considering the limitations.
* Consider the impact of travel time on their overall well-being.
* Contact healthcare providers to inquire about appointment scheduling, transportation assistance, and support services.

By carefully considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare access and ensure they can receive the care they need. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a starting point for a more in-depth exploration of the healthcare landscape in 44234, empowering individuals to make informed choices and navigate the complexities of healthcare access.