44449, North Benton, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44449, North Benton, Ohio is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.39 percent of residents in 44449 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.25 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Salem Regional Medical Center with a distance of 11.74 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in North Benton (ZIP Code 44449)**

The quiet charm of North Benton, Ohio, nestled within ZIP code 44449, offers a peaceful existence for its residents. Yet, the serenity of this rural community is occasionally challenged by the realities of healthcare access, particularly when considering the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. This write-up aims to assess the accessibility of breast cancer care from North Benton, focusing on the crucial element of transportation. Understanding the available options, from personal vehicles to public transit and ride-sharing services, is paramount for anyone considering moving to North Benton or already residing there.

The very fabric of healthcare access is interwoven with transportation. A swift and reliable journey to a specialist, diagnostic center, or treatment facility can significantly impact the patient's experience and outcome. This is especially true for breast cancer patients, who often face frequent appointments, potentially including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. The Breast Cancer Score for North Benton considers the various transportation modalities, providing a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities.

**The Road to Care: Driving Times and Routes**

For many residents of North Benton, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The most direct route to major healthcare facilities typically involves navigating the local roadways. Access to the nearest comprehensive cancer centers will largely dictate the drive times and routes.

Heading south, a journey to the Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital, a recognized cancer treatment center, involves a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes. The route typically utilizes State Route 183 South, transitioning onto U.S. Route 224 West. The final leg of the journey involves navigating local roads to reach the hospital. The drive itself can be affected by traffic, especially during peak hours.

Alternatively, heading north offers access to the University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland. This journey, which can take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes, generally utilizes State Route 183 North, connecting to Interstate 76 East, then transitioning to Interstate 77 North. This route, while longer, offers a more direct path to a nationally recognized cancer center.

The drive times are estimations and depend on traffic conditions, time of day, and weather. The condition of the roads is also a factor, with potential delays due to construction or seasonal hazards. Residents of North Benton should always factor in extra travel time, particularly when attending appointments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in North Benton are limited. The area is primarily served by the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA), which offers bus services within Stark County. However, SARTA's routes do not directly serve North Benton. Residents needing public transit must consider alternative options.

The nearest SARTA route, which may require a drive to a designated stop, is the Route 102, which connects Canton and Alliance. This route does not directly service any major cancer centers. The limited availability of public transit poses a significant challenge for those who do not own a vehicle or are unable to drive.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for public transit. SARTA ensures its buses are ADA-compliant, with features such as wheelchair lifts and priority seating. However, the lack of direct routes from North Benton limits the usefulness of public transit for those with mobility challenges.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services in North Benton may be limited, especially during off-peak hours. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, particularly for frequent appointments.

Medical transport services, such as CareRide and First Transit, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services can be a valuable option for individuals who cannot drive or do not have access to other transportation. The cost of medical transport is often covered by insurance, but it is essential to confirm coverage and make arrangements in advance.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic Assessment**

The Breast Cancer Score for North Benton considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** The time required to reach the nearest cancer centers.
* **Public Transit Availability:** The accessibility and ADA compliance of public transportation options.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** The availability, cost, and reliability of these services.
* **Overall Accessibility:** A holistic assessment of the ease with which residents can access breast cancer care.

The score will reflect the challenges of rural healthcare access. The limited public transit options and potential reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services will influence the overall score. This score will provide a clear picture of the transportation landscape for breast cancer patients in North Benton.

**Implications for Moving to North Benton**

For individuals considering moving to North Benton, the Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options. The distance to healthcare facilities and the availability of reliable transportation are critical factors to consider.

Potential residents should research the availability of ride-sharing services, the cost of medical transport, and the feasibility of driving to appointments. They should also consider the potential need for support from family, friends, or community resources.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The Breast Cancer Score for North Benton underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare landscape. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the challenges of transportation to healthcare facilities must be acknowledged.

By understanding the available options, from personal vehicles to ride-sharing and medical transport, residents of North Benton can take steps to ensure they have access to the care they need. The journey through breast cancer treatment can be challenging, but with careful planning and a strong support system, residents of North Benton can navigate this journey with confidence. The score serves as a reminder of the importance of accessible transportation in ensuring timely and effective healthcare access.