44427, Kensington, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44427, Kensington, Ohio is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.31 percent of residents in 44427 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 13.43 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Kensington, Ohio (ZIP Code 44427)

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as significant as breast cancer, is a complex one. It's not merely about the medical expertise available; it's also about the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. This analysis delves into the accessibility of breast cancer care for residents of Kensington, Ohio (ZIP Code 44427), considering the available *transportation* options and their potential impact on a patient’s well-being. This is particularly relevant for individuals *moving to Kensington* who need to understand the landscape of healthcare services.

Kensington, nestled in the rolling hills of Columbiana County, offers a tranquil setting. However, its rural location presents unique challenges when it comes to accessing specialized medical care. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. The "Breast Cancer Score" for this ZIP code considers these factors, evaluating the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential medical services.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For many Kensington residents, driving is the primary mode of *transportation*. The most direct route to larger medical centers involves navigating the local road network. Traveling east, patients would likely utilize State Route 11 (SR-11), a major north-south artery, to access facilities in the Youngstown area. This highway offers a relatively swift commute, although traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can be a factor.

Heading west, patients might utilize U.S. Route 30 (US-30) to reach Canton and its associated medical institutions. This route is generally well-maintained but can experience heavy truck traffic, potentially extending travel times. The condition of these roads, particularly during inclement weather, is a critical consideration, as it can significantly impact travel safety and reliability.

Smaller roads, such as State Route 164 and local county roads, provide alternative routes. However, these roads are often winding and less direct, potentially increasing travel time and adding to the stress of a patient already facing a difficult diagnosis. The availability of reliable personal *transportation* is therefore a significant factor in the overall Breast Cancer Score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in Kensington are limited. There is no established bus route directly serving Kensington. Residents needing to rely on public transit would likely need to travel to a larger city, such as Salem or Lisbon, and connect with a regional transit system. This could involve multiple transfers and significantly extended travel times.

The availability of accessible *transportation* is a crucial aspect of *healthcare access*. While specific route numbers and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features are difficult to ascertain without a specific bus route to Kensington, the lack of direct public transit presents a considerable barrier for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive. The absence of readily available public *transportation* significantly lowers the Breast Cancer Score for this ZIP code.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are becoming increasingly prevalent. However, their availability in rural areas like Kensington can be inconsistent. While these services might be available, wait times and pricing can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. This makes them less reliable for scheduled medical appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, designed specifically for patients needing assistance, offer a more specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and CareRide provide non-emergency medical *transportation*, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services can be pre-booked and offer a more structured and reliable option for patients. However, they often come with a higher cost, which can be a significant burden for individuals managing the financial challenges of cancer treatment.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services are crucial factors in determining the Breast Cancer Score. While these services can bridge the gap in *transportation* options, their cost and availability can still pose challenges for many residents.

**Healthcare Access: Proximity to Care**

The proximity of Kensington to comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers is a critical element of the Breast Cancer Score. The closest facilities offering specialized care are located in Youngstown and Canton. These centers typically provide a full range of services, including mammography, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, and medical oncology.

The drive times to these centers vary depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. A typical drive to Youngstown could take between 45 minutes and an hour, while a drive to Canton could take between an hour and an hour and a half. These travel times can be particularly challenging for patients undergoing frequent treatments or experiencing fatigue.

The Breast Cancer Score considers the drive times, the availability of *transportation* options, and the overall ease with which residents can access the necessary medical services. The longer travel times and limited *transportation* options in Kensington contribute to a lower Breast Cancer Score compared to areas with more readily available healthcare.

**Considerations for Moving to Kensington**

For individuals *moving to Kensington*, understanding the *healthcare access* landscape is essential. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the distance to specialized medical care is a significant consideration, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of breast cancer.

Prospective residents should carefully assess their *transportation* needs and explore the availability of medical *transportation* services. They should also factor in the potential costs associated with travel and the impact of long commutes on their overall well-being.

**Conclusion: A Score Reflecting the Realities**

The Breast Cancer Score for Kensington, Ohio (ZIP Code 44427) reflects the realities of accessing healthcare in a rural setting. While the community offers a desirable lifestyle, the limited *transportation* options and the distance to specialized medical care present significant challenges for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer.

The score emphasizes the importance of careful planning, utilizing available resources, and considering the impact of *transportation* on a patient's overall well-being. It underscores the need for continued efforts to improve *healthcare access* in rural communities, including exploring options for expanding public transit, promoting ride-sharing services, and ensuring the affordability of medical *transportation*. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents, regardless of their location, have equitable access to the care they need.