44254, Lodi, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44254, Lodi, Ohio is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

66.36 percent of residents in 44254 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.09 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lodi Community Hospital with a distance of 0.38 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lodi, Ohio (ZIP Code 44254)

Considering a move to Lodi, Ohio (ZIP code 44254), and prioritizing healthcare access, especially for breast cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" based on transportation options to medical facilities, crucial for timely care. Understanding these access points is vital, as it impacts your overall health and well-being.

Lodi, a charming village nestled in Medina County, offers a blend of rural tranquility and proximity to larger urban centers. However, healthcare access, particularly for specialized services like breast cancer care, necessitates careful consideration of transportation logistics. This score evaluates the ease with which residents can reach essential healthcare providers.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation for residents of 44254 is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Accessing breast cancer specialists and treatment centers often involves driving. The score considers the drive times to relevant facilities from a central location within Lodi.

Heading east, the primary artery is **State Route 42**, connecting Lodi to Wadsworth and eventually Akron. Expect a drive of approximately 30-45 minutes to Summa Health System’s Akron Campus, a major healthcare provider with comprehensive cancer services. Traffic conditions, especially during peak hours, can influence this commute.

Traveling south, **U.S. Route 224** provides access to Ashland and Mansfield, where additional healthcare options exist. The drive to University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland, a facility offering cancer care, is roughly 40-50 minutes. This route traverses scenic landscapes, yet delays can occur due to construction or seasonal weather.

Northward, **State Route 83** leads to Medina, a shorter drive of about 20-30 minutes. The Medina Hospital, part of the Cleveland Clinic system, provides cancer services. This route is generally less congested, offering a potentially quicker commute.

Westward, access to facilities is more limited. The drive to facilities in Wooster, via **State Route 301** or **U.S. Route 250**, could take up to an hour. This area offers fewer specialized cancer treatment options.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options:**

Public transportation in Lodi and Medina County is limited. The Greater Akron Regional Transit Authority (G.A.R.T.A.) does not directly serve Lodi. Residents rely on county-specific transportation programs, which are often demand-response, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance.

These programs may offer transportation to medical appointments, but availability and scheduling can be challenging. This significantly impacts the Breast Cancer Score, as reliance on these services for regular appointments, such as mammograms or chemotherapy, presents significant logistical hurdles. ADA-accessible vehicles are typically available, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited frequency and potential for long wait times are important considerations.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering a more flexible transportation option than public transit. However, availability can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a factor, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are available. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel. However, they can be expensive and require advance booking. Companies such as CareRide and MedRide are available, though the cost and booking procedures must be investigated.

**Breast Cancer Score Assessment:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Lodi (44254) reflects the challenges associated with healthcare access, specifically for breast cancer care. While Lodi offers a pleasant living environment, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options significantly impact the score.

The drive times to major healthcare providers, while manageable, are subject to traffic and weather conditions. The limited public transportation options and the potential reliance on ride-sharing or medical transport services add complexity and potential financial burdens.

**Factors influencing the score:**

* **Drive Time:** The average drive time to major cancer centers is moderate, but traffic can affect this.
* **Public Transportation:** Limited availability and demand-response nature.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Dependent on time of day and demand.
* **Medical Transport:** Available, but expensive and requires pre-planning.
* **Proximity to Specialists:** While some providers are within reasonable driving distance, specialized care may require travel to larger cities.

**Recommendations for Prospective Residents:**

For individuals considering a move to Lodi and prioritizing breast cancer care, several factors should be considered.

* **Vehicle Ownership:** A personal vehicle is essential for accessing healthcare services.
* **Proximity to Care:** Consider proximity to hospitals and cancer centers when choosing a residence.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure your insurance plan covers transportation costs if you need to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport.
* **Pre-Planning:** Schedule appointments in advance and factor in travel time, especially during peak hours.
* **Explore Support Networks:** Investigate local support groups and resources that can assist with transportation and other needs.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Lodi (44254) is moderate. While the area offers a desirable lifestyle, the challenges related to transportation and healthcare access necessitate careful consideration. Prospective residents should proactively assess their transportation needs, understand the available resources, and plan accordingly to ensure timely access to essential breast cancer care. The choice to move to Lodi requires balancing the advantages of a quieter lifestyle with the potential complexities of accessing specialized healthcare. Careful planning is crucial for a smooth transition and continued well-being.