44608, Beach City, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44608, Beach City, Ohio is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

57.30 percent of residents in 44608 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.36 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 11.66 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Beach City (44608)

The decision to move to a new community, especially when considering healthcare access, is a weighty one. For those residing in or contemplating a move to Beach City, Ohio (ZIP code 44608), understanding the landscape of breast cancer care is paramount. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score," a comprehensive assessment of transportation options and their impact on healthcare access, specifically focusing on breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. This score will help you evaluate the ease and convenience of accessing vital healthcare services, a crucial factor in making an informed decision about your new home.

The "Breast Cancer Score" considers several critical factors: the proximity of healthcare facilities offering breast cancer services, the availability and efficiency of transportation options, and the overall accessibility of these services for residents of 44608. We will delve into drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport to provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape.

Beach City, nestled in the heart of Ohio, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities regarding healthcare access. While the town itself may be small, the surrounding areas offer a range of medical facilities. The ability to navigate these distances efficiently is a key determinant of the "Breast Cancer Score."

**Drive Times: The Asphalt Arteries**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the road network. From Beach City, the primary routes to access breast cancer care are via the well-maintained highways and local roads.

Heading east, patients can utilize **State Route 212**, a crucial artery connecting Beach City to Dover and New Philadelphia. This route provides access to Union Hospital in Dover, a potential hub for breast cancer screening and treatment. The drive time to Union Hospital averages approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Traveling south, residents can use **State Route 93**, which leads to Massillon and the Aultman Hospital. This journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes. Aultman Hospital offers a comprehensive breast cancer program, including diagnostic imaging, surgery, and chemotherapy.

The **U.S. Route 250** provides access to Canton, where residents can access Mercy Medical Center. This drive is approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Mercy Medical Center is another comprehensive cancer center, offering a wide range of services.

These drive times, while manageable, highlight the importance of considering potential delays due to traffic, weather conditions, and road closures. The "Breast Cancer Score" recognizes that longer drive times can impact the timeliness of appointments and the overall stress associated with healthcare access.

**Public Transit: The Wheels of Community**

Public transit in the 44608 area is limited, which significantly impacts the "Breast Cancer Score." There is no direct public bus service within Beach City.

The Tuscarawas County Transportation Department (TCTD) offers demand-response transportation services. These services require advance booking and are primarily designed for individuals with disabilities, seniors, and those with limited transportation options. These services are ADA compliant.

While TCTD offers a lifeline for some, the limited availability and the need for advance booking can pose challenges, particularly for urgent appointments or unexpected medical needs. The lack of readily available public transit significantly lowers the "Breast Cancer Score" for residents without access to personal vehicles.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the 44608 area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, their availability can vary depending on the time of day and the demand. These services can be valuable for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTransport and FirstLight HomeCare, provide specialized transportation for medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door assistance and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. While these services can be reliable, they often come with higher costs.

The presence of ride-sharing and medical transport options provides a boost to the "Breast Cancer Score," particularly for those with specific transportation needs. However, the cost and availability of these services remain critical considerations.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" for 44608: A Summary**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Beach City (44608) reflects a mixed bag. While the drive times to healthcare facilities offering breast cancer services are manageable, the limited public transit options and the reliance on personal vehicles or ride-sharing services present challenges.

The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services offers a safety net, but the cost and availability of these services must be carefully considered.

**Recommendations for Residents and Prospective Movers**

For those residing in or considering a move to Beach City, several recommendations can improve the "Breast Cancer Score."

* **Assess Transportation Needs:** Evaluate your transportation options and identify any potential barriers to accessing healthcare.
* **Explore Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:** Familiarize yourself with ride-sharing and medical transport services in the area.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments in advance and factor in travel time.
* **Consider Proximity:** When choosing a home, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Support initiatives that promote improved public transit options in the area.

Moving to Beach City can be a positive experience. By understanding the healthcare landscape and proactively addressing transportation challenges, residents can ensure that they have access to the vital breast cancer care they need. The "Breast Cancer Score" is a starting point for making informed decisions about healthcare access, contributing to a healthier and more fulfilling life in Beach City.