44311, Akron, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44311, Akron, Ohio is 65 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.18 percent of residents in 44311 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Akron General Medical Center with a distance of 1.04 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Akron's 44311**

Considering a move to Akron, Ohio, specifically the 44311 ZIP code? Understanding healthcare access, particularly for a critical illness like breast cancer, is paramount. This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of transportation options to vital healthcare facilities, crucial for timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. The score considers drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-share availability, and medical transportation options, ensuring informed decision-making for potential residents and current inhabitants alike.

The 44311 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Akron, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. The area's layout necessitates a deep dive into transportation networks, factoring in the complexities of navigating the city's arteries to reach crucial medical centers. This assessment will paint a picture of the realities of healthcare access in this specific area, providing a clear understanding of the challenges and opportunities.

**Drive Times and Road Networks**

The cornerstone of healthcare access often revolves around personal vehicle transportation. In 44311, drive times to major hospitals and cancer treatment centers are significantly influenced by traffic patterns and the specific roads utilized. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare are Interstate 76 (I-76), Interstate 77 (I-77), and State Route 8 (SR-8). These highways, coupled with local roads like East Market Street, Waterloo Road, and Brittain Road, form the critical network for navigating to medical appointments.

For example, traveling from the central part of 44311 to Summa Health System – Akron Campus, a major healthcare provider, typically involves a drive of approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. This route often utilizes East Market Street to I-76 West, followed by a short drive to the hospital. Reaching Cleveland Clinic Akron General, another significant medical facility, might involve a slightly longer drive, around 15-20 minutes, often using I-77 North.

These drive times are estimates, and can be significantly impacted by rush hour congestion, accidents, or inclement weather. Therefore, prospective residents should factor in potential delays when assessing their healthcare access needs. The efficiency of these routes directly influences the "Breast Cancer Score," as timely access to care is critical.

**Public Transit Accessibility**

Beyond personal vehicles, public transit is a vital component of healthcare access, particularly for individuals who cannot drive or prefer alternative modes of transportation. The Akron MetroMetropolitan Area Transit Authority (Metro) provides bus services throughout the city, including routes serving the 44311 ZIP code. Several Metro routes are particularly relevant for healthcare access.

Route 1, for instance, often provides access to downtown Akron, where some healthcare facilities are located, and offers connections to other crucial routes. Route 10, another important line, serves areas near major hospitals and medical centers. The accessibility of these routes is a crucial factor in the "Breast Cancer Score."

It is important to note that Metro buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including ramps and priority seating, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, route frequency and travel times can be a concern. While Metro provides a valuable service, the time commitment for public transit can be significantly longer than driving, particularly during peak hours.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly popular, offering another layer of transportation options. In Akron, these services are readily available, providing on-demand transportation to and from healthcare facilities. The convenience of ride-share services is undeniable, offering a door-to-door service that can be particularly beneficial for individuals undergoing treatment or with mobility limitations.

However, the cost of ride-share services can be a barrier for some, and availability may fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. The reliability of these services is another factor to consider, especially for appointments that require punctuality.

Medical transportation services, such as those provided by local companies, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained staff to assist patients. While these services are often more expensive than ride-share, they can be essential for individuals requiring specialized care or assistance.

**Medical Facilities and Treatment Centers**

The availability of specialized medical facilities within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor in the "Breast Cancer Score." The 44311 ZIP code is within proximity to several key healthcare providers, including Summa Health System – Akron Campus and Cleveland Clinic Akron General. These hospitals offer comprehensive cancer care, including diagnostic services, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

The proximity to these facilities significantly improves the "Breast Cancer Score," providing residents with access to a range of treatment options. However, the specific services offered at each facility, the availability of specialists, and the wait times for appointments are all factors that prospective residents should investigate.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" Methodology**

The "Breast Cancer Score" is a composite metric, reflecting the accessibility of healthcare facilities based on the factors discussed above. The score considers:

* **Drive Times:** Weighted based on the distance and traffic conditions to major hospitals and cancer treatment centers.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** Evaluated based on the frequency, route coverage, and ADA accessibility of Metro bus routes.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** Assessed based on the presence and reliability of Uber and Lyft services.
* **Medical Transportation Options:** Considered the availability and cost of specialized medical transportation services.
* **Proximity to Medical Facilities:** Weighted based on the presence of comprehensive cancer care centers.

Each factor is assigned a weight, and the overall score is calculated to provide a comprehensive assessment of healthcare access. A higher score indicates better access.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in 44311**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 44311 reflects a mixed picture of healthcare access. While the area benefits from the proximity of major hospitals and cancer treatment centers, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion are significant considerations. Public transit provides an alternative, but travel times and route frequency can be a concern. Ride-share services offer convenience, but cost and reliability are factors to consider.

For individuals considering moving to Akron, Ohio, particularly those with a history of breast cancer or other health concerns, a thorough understanding of the transportation landscape is essential. Researching specific healthcare providers, evaluating transportation options, and considering individual needs are all crucial steps in making an informed decision. The "Breast Cancer Score" is a starting point, providing a framework for assessing healthcare access and navigating the complexities of moving to a new area.