44505, Youngstown, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44505, Youngstown, Ohio is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.77 percent of residents in 44505 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is St Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital with a distance of 1.98 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Youngstown's 44505

The prospect of a breast cancer diagnosis casts a long shadow. For residents of Youngstown, Ohio, particularly those residing in ZIP code 44505, the journey from diagnosis to treatment is often interwoven with the complexities of transportation. Understanding the accessibility of healthcare, specifically for breast cancer services, is crucial. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the transportation landscape, assessing the ease with which individuals can access vital medical care.

The 44505 ZIP code encompasses a significant portion of Youngstown, a city grappling with its own unique challenges and opportunities. The availability of efficient transportation directly impacts healthcare access, influencing the timeliness and quality of care for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Factors like drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing services all contribute to the overall "Breast Cancer Score" for this area.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating Youngstown's Roads**

For many, the most immediate option is driving. From the heart of 44505, access to breast cancer specialists and treatment centers hinges on navigating Youngstown's road network. The primary arteries, like the **Youngstown-Poland Road**, **Market Street**, and the **Mahoning Avenue**, are critical for reaching various healthcare providers.

The drive time to major healthcare facilities, such as Mercy Health-St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, a primary hub for breast cancer care, can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions. Typically, the drive from 44505 to St. Elizabeth's via the **Youngstown-Poland Road** takes approximately 10-15 minutes, assuming moderate traffic. The journey via **Market Street** might be slightly longer, especially during peak hours.

Further afield, the potential need for specialized care or second opinions could necessitate travel to Cleveland Clinic or the University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland. This longer journey involves navigating the **I-680** and connecting to the **I-80** or the **Ohio Turnpike**, a trip that can take anywhere from 1 hour to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route.

**Public Transit: A Balancing Act**

The Western Reserve Transit Authority (WRTA) provides public transportation within Youngstown. For those without personal vehicles, or for those seeking an alternative, the WRTA offers several routes that serve the 44505 ZIP code.

The specific routes serving this area, such as the **Route 10**, **Route 11**, and **Route 22**, are crucial for understanding healthcare access. These routes connect to major transfer points and healthcare facilities. However, frequency and route coverage are critical considerations. The WRTA operates with a limited schedule, particularly on weekends and evenings.

ADA accessibility is a key factor. The WRTA strives to provide accessible services, with buses equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall ease of using public transit for individuals undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility limitations are vital elements in the "Breast Cancer Score" assessment.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to public transit. The availability and cost of these services can vary depending on demand and time of day.

Medical transportation services also play a crucial role. Companies like MedTrans, and others, offer specialized transportation for medical appointments, including those related to cancer treatment. These services often provide door-to-door assistance and are designed to accommodate the specific needs of patients.

**Assessing the "Breast Cancer Score" in 44505**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 44505 is influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Drive times to healthcare facilities, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the availability and affordability of ride-sharing services, and the presence of medical transportation options all contribute to the overall assessment.

The score reflects the ease with which individuals can access breast cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. It considers the challenges faced by those without personal vehicles, those with mobility limitations, and those who may be financially constrained.

**Moving to Youngstown: Considering Healthcare Access**

For those considering a move to Youngstown, understanding the healthcare landscape, including transportation options, is paramount. The "Breast Cancer Score" provides valuable insights into the accessibility of breast cancer services within the 44505 ZIP code.

Factors like proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of public transit, and the presence of ride-sharing services should be carefully considered. The overall goal is to ensure that residents have timely and convenient access to the care they need, especially when facing a serious health challenge like breast cancer.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 44505 underscores the importance of accessible transportation in the context of healthcare. While Youngstown faces its own unique challenges, the city offers various options for accessing breast cancer services.

By understanding the drive times, public transit routes, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transportation services, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and expand healthcare access will ultimately contribute to a higher "Breast Cancer Score," ensuring that individuals in 44505 have the support they need on their journey. The commitment to improving transportation and healthcare access is a vital part of building a healthier and more supportive community.