44613, Brewster, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44613, Brewster, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

71.98 percent of residents in 44613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.02 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Union Hospital with a distance of 15.68 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Brewster, Ohio (ZIP Code 44613)

Considering a move to Brewster, Ohio (ZIP Code 44613)? This analysis, a “Breast Cancer Score,” assesses the accessibility of breast cancer healthcare within your new community. We will explore the intricacies of transportation, a crucial factor in healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing the challenges of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a nuanced understanding of the journey to potentially life-saving care.

Brewster, a small village nestled in Stark County, presents a unique set of transportation challenges and opportunities. Its rural setting necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles for many residents. However, understanding the available options is paramount for informed decision-making, especially for those with a history of breast cancer or at increased risk. This analysis aims to illuminate the path to care, empowering you to make informed choices about your healthcare journey.

**Drive Times: The Road to Care**

The primary artery connecting Brewster to the broader region is **State Route 21 (SR-21)**. This north-south thoroughfare provides relatively quick access to larger cities like Massillon and Canton, where more comprehensive medical facilities are located. Driving times are, of course, subject to traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours.

To reach Aultman Hospital in Canton, a major healthcare provider with a comprehensive cancer center, the drive typically takes around 25-35 minutes, covering approximately 18 miles. The route primarily involves taking SR-21 south. The journey, while generally straightforward, can be impacted by traffic congestion, especially near the city limits.

For those seeking care at Mercy Medical Center, also in Canton, the drive time is similar, approximately 25-35 minutes via SR-21 south. This hospital also offers specialized cancer services, and the route is generally well-maintained.

Traveling west on **State Route 250 (SR-250)**, residents can access facilities in Dover, Ohio. The drive to Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital in Dover is around 35-45 minutes, covering approximately 25 miles. This route offers an alternative to the Canton-based hospitals, providing another option for healthcare access.

Finally, for those who prefer a more direct route, consider **County Road 99 (CR-99)**. This road offers a more scenic, albeit slower, route to Canton, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to your journey. It is important to note that weather conditions, particularly during winter months, can significantly impact drive times and road safety in this region.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Critical Considerations**

Public transportation options in Brewster are limited. Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus service within Stark County, but the frequency and routes serving Brewster are minimal. This presents a significant challenge for individuals without access to a personal vehicle.

SARTA's Route 102, which runs between Massillon and Canton, does offer service to the general area of Brewster. However, the specific stops and schedules are limited, and the bus frequency is often hourly or less frequent. This makes relying solely on public transit for regular appointments and treatments extremely difficult.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration. SARTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other accommodations to ensure accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service remain significant barriers to healthcare access for many residents.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Brewster area, but their availability and reliability can vary. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. It is crucial to assess the cost and availability of these services before relying on them for healthcare transportation.

Medical transportation services, such as MedTransport and First Call Medical Transport, offer specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often provide door-to-door service and can accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices. However, these services can be expensive, and pre-booking is often required.

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

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Brewster (ZIP Code 44613) is moderate. While drive times to major hospitals in Canton and Dover are relatively reasonable, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of ride-sharing and medical transport services present significant challenges.

**Factors Influencing the Score:**

* **Drive Times:** Moderate, with access to multiple hospitals within a reasonable driving distance.
* **Public Transit:** Limited, with infrequent service and limited route coverage.
* **Ride-Sharing:** Availability varies, and costs can be a significant factor.
* **Medical Transport:** Available but can be expensive.
* **Accessibility:** SARTA buses are ADA-compliant, but service frequency is a barrier.

**Recommendations for Residents:**

* **Assess Personal Transportation:** Prioritize access to a reliable personal vehicle or the ability to secure regular transportation.
* **Explore Transportation Assistance Programs:** Investigate local programs that offer transportation assistance to individuals with medical needs.
* **Plan Ahead:** Schedule appointments and treatments with ample time to account for potential transportation delays.
* **Consider Proximity to Healthcare:** When choosing a home, consider the proximity to major hospitals and healthcare providers.
* **Advocate for Enhanced Public Transit:** Support efforts to improve public transportation services in the area.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Moving to Brewster, Ohio, requires careful consideration of healthcare access, particularly for individuals with breast cancer or at increased risk. While the drive times to major hospitals are manageable, the limitations of public transit and the potential costs of alternative transportation options require careful planning and resourcefulness. By understanding the available options and proactively addressing transportation challenges, residents can navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure access to the care they need. This Breast Cancer Score provides a starting point for understanding the complexities of healthcare access in Brewster, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health and well-being. The journey to healthcare in Brewster requires careful planning, but with awareness and proactive measures, residents can successfully navigate the path to care.