44625, East Rochester, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44625, East Rochester, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

36.70 percent of residents in 44625 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alliance Community Hospital with a distance of 11.27 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in East Rochester (ZIP Code 44625)

East Rochester, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Carroll County, presents a unique landscape for healthcare access. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," explores the transportation infrastructure available to residents of ZIP code 44625 seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. It considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services, painting a picture of the challenges and opportunities faced by those navigating this crucial aspect of healthcare. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of transportation's impact on healthcare access for residents, especially those considering moving to East Rochester.

The foundation of this score rests on the understanding that timely access to healthcare is paramount in the fight against breast cancer. Early detection through regular screenings dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. The ease with which residents can reach medical facilities, therefore, directly influences their health outcomes.

**The Road to Healthcare: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

For many East Rochester residents, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The ability to drive to healthcare appointments is a critical factor. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are located in surrounding cities, necessitating travel on a network of roads and highways.

The most direct route to Canton, Ohio, home to Aultman Hospital, a major healthcare provider, involves traveling approximately 30 miles. This journey typically takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The primary route involves taking State Route 180, which connects to U.S. Route 30, a major east-west artery. From there, drivers can navigate to the hospital using local roads.

Another option is to travel to Alliance, Ohio, approximately 20 miles away, which houses Alliance Community Hospital. This journey, primarily via State Route 180 and U.S. Route 62, takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes. This shorter drive time can be advantageous for those seeking quicker access to medical care, although the scope of services might differ compared to larger hospitals in Canton.

For those seeking more specialized cancer care, the Cleveland Clinic, a nationally recognized cancer center, is a significant option. However, this journey is considerably longer, approximately 80 miles, taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This route involves navigating U.S. Route 30, connecting to Interstate 77 North.

These drive times are crucial considerations. They represent not just the physical distance, but also the time commitment, the cost of fuel, and the potential for stress associated with travel. The longer the drive, the more challenging it becomes for individuals to adhere to regular screening schedules and treatment plans.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in East Rochester and the surrounding areas are limited. This presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for those who do not own a vehicle, cannot drive, or are unable to afford the costs associated with car ownership.

There is no direct public bus route that services East Rochester. Residents would need to rely on regional transportation options that might involve multiple transfers and extended travel times. This can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects.

The availability of public transit with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is also a critical factor. While some regional bus services may offer accessible vehicles, the lack of readily available public transit in East Rochester significantly limits healthcare access for individuals with disabilities.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as an alternative transportation option. However, their availability in East Rochester is not guaranteed. Ride-sharing services are often less prevalent in rural areas, and wait times can be significantly longer compared to urban centers. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier, especially for individuals with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized option for patients who require assistance getting to and from medical appointments. These services typically provide transportation in wheelchair-accessible vehicles and may offer assistance with mobility and other needs. However, medical transport services can be expensive, and their availability may be limited.

Several medical transport companies serve the broader region, including those that transport patients to and from medical facilities. The cost of these services varies depending on the distance, the level of care required, and the specific provider.

**Impact on the Breast Cancer Score**

The Breast Cancer Score for East Rochester is significantly impacted by the limited transportation options. The reliance on personal vehicles and the lack of robust public transit create challenges for residents seeking healthcare. The longer drive times to major medical centers can deter individuals from adhering to screening schedules and treatment plans.

The absence of readily available ride-sharing and medical transport services further exacerbates these challenges, particularly for those who cannot drive or lack access to a personal vehicle. The cost of these services can also be a significant barrier for many residents.

**Considerations for Moving to East Rochester**

For individuals considering moving to East Rochester, the availability of healthcare access should be a key consideration. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and evaluate the feasibility of accessing medical facilities.

Individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk should be particularly mindful of the transportation challenges. They should research the availability of ride-sharing services, medical transport options, and the costs associated with these services.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

To improve the Breast Cancer Score for East Rochester, several initiatives are recommended. First, efforts should be made to expand public transportation options, including the potential for a shuttle service connecting East Rochester to nearby cities with healthcare facilities.

Second, partnerships with ride-sharing companies could be explored to ensure the availability of transportation services for residents. Subsidized ride-sharing programs could also be implemented to make these services more affordable.

Third, increased awareness of medical transport services and their availability is crucial. Community outreach programs can educate residents about these services and provide information on financial assistance programs.

Finally, healthcare providers should consider offering telehealth services to reduce the need for in-person appointments. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Conclusion**

The Breast Cancer Score for East Rochester, Ohio, reflects the challenges and opportunities associated with healthcare access. The limited transportation options pose significant hurdles for residents seeking breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. By understanding these challenges and implementing targeted solutions, the community can improve healthcare access and ensure that all residents have the opportunity to receive timely and effective care. This is a critical consideration for those contemplating moving to East Rochester, highlighting the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare landscape.