44629, Gnadenhutten, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44629, Gnadenhutten, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

59.14 percent of residents in 44629 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.10 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Twin City Medical Center with a distance of 5.90 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Gnadenhutten, Ohio (ZIP Code 44629)

The gentle hum of rural Ohio often masks the complexities of healthcare access, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. In Gnadenhutten (ZIP Code 44629), a community steeped in history, the journey to treatment and support requires careful consideration of **transportation** options. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment, explores the landscape of **healthcare access** for residents, especially those considering **moving to Gnadenhutten**, focusing on travel times, modes of transit, and available resources.

Understanding the challenges is the first step. Breast cancer care demands consistent appointments: mammograms, biopsies, chemotherapy, radiation, and follow-up visits. Each trip, a potential hurdle, demands careful planning. This score evaluates the availability of **transportation** to key medical facilities, including hospitals, cancer centers, and specialized clinics. The score considers drive times, public transit options, and the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services.

The primary healthcare hub for Gnadenhutten residents is likely to be Aultman Hospital in Canton, approximately 35 miles northeast. Driving via US-36 East, then merging onto I-77 North, offers the most direct route. Expect a drive time of around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, traveling south on US-36 West to SR-21 North provides access to Mercy Medical Center in Canton, a similar distance with comparable travel times. The condition of US-36 and SR-21 is generally good, but winter weather can significantly impact travel times.

For those without personal vehicles, public transit presents a different challenge. The Tuscarawas County Transportation (TCT) provides demand-response services, but fixed routes are limited. TCT operates on a reservation basis, requiring advance booking, and the service area may not extend directly to all cancer care facilities. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a critical factor, and TCT vehicles are equipped with ADA-compliant features. However, the inherent flexibility of demand-response services can be less convenient for scheduled medical appointments.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Canton area, providing another option for **transportation**. However, their presence in Gnadenhutten itself may be limited. Availability and pricing can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in inclement weather. This reliance on ride-sharing necessitates careful planning and budgeting, as costs can accumulate quickly with frequent appointments.

Medical transport services offer a specialized solution for individuals needing assistance. Companies like MedStar and Liberty Medical Transportation provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, often including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services require pre-arrangement and can offer door-to-door assistance, alleviating some of the burden of travel. However, these services come at a cost, which may or may not be covered by insurance.

Beyond Canton, specialized cancer centers in larger cities like Cleveland (University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center) and Columbus (The James Cancer Hospital) offer advanced treatment options. Reaching these facilities, however, significantly increases travel time and complexity. The drive to Cleveland, primarily via I-77 North, can take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Columbus, accessible via US-36 West and I-71 South, presents a similar travel time.

These longer distances highlight the importance of considering the impact of travel on a patient's well-being. Fatigue, pain, and the side effects of treatment can make long journeys particularly challenging. The availability of lodging near treatment centers becomes a crucial consideration for those facing extended treatment regimens.

The Breast Cancer Score for Gnadenhutten (ZIP Code 44629) is influenced by several factors. The primary challenge is the distance to comprehensive cancer care. While Canton offers accessible options, the reliance on personal vehicles or pre-arranged **transportation** services creates potential barriers. Public transit, though available, has limitations in terms of frequency and direct access to healthcare facilities. Ride-sharing services offer a supplemental option, but their availability and cost are variables. Medical transport services provide specialized support, but their cost must be factored in.

For individuals considering **moving to Gnadenhutten** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, a thorough evaluation of these factors is crucial. Assessing the availability of support networks, including family, friends, and community resources, is equally important. Exploring financial assistance programs that may help cover **transportation** costs is also recommended.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a definitive rating but a framework for understanding the complexities of **healthcare access**. It emphasizes the need for proactive planning, exploring all available options, and building a support system to navigate the challenges of breast cancer treatment. The quality of life is deeply connected to the ability to access the care needed.