44638, Lakeville, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44638, Lakeville, Ohio is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

62.74 percent of residents in 44638 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.87 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Pomerene Hospital with a distance of 12.19 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Lakeville (44638)

The decision to relocate, especially with health considerations, demands meticulous planning. This assessment, tailored for ZIP code 44638 (Lakeville, Ohio), explores the landscape of breast cancer healthcare access, focusing on transportation options – a critical factor in timely diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. We'll examine drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, painting a comprehensive picture for those contemplating a move or currently residing in Lakeville. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a qualitative measure reflecting the ease and efficiency of accessing vital healthcare services.

Lakeville, a charming village nestled in Holmes County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges when navigating the complexities of healthcare, particularly for those facing a breast cancer diagnosis. The availability of specialized medical facilities and the ease with which they can be reached are paramount concerns. This write-up will serve as a guide, empowering individuals to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare needs within the context of Lakeville’s transportation infrastructure.

The cornerstone of any healthcare access assessment is proximity to medical facilities. For breast cancer care, this typically involves oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and support services. The primary healthcare hubs for Lakeville residents are located in nearby cities, necessitating travel. Understanding drive times is crucial.

**Driving Directions and Time Estimates:**

The most direct route to Wooster Community Hospital, a key healthcare provider, is via **State Route 226** south, connecting to **U.S. Route 250** east. This journey, spanning approximately 15 miles, typically takes 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The drive is generally straightforward, offering well-maintained roads.

Alternatively, for more specialized care, residents might need to travel to larger medical centers in Canton or Akron. Accessing Canton involves taking **State Route 226** south to **State Route 3** east, then merging onto **U.S. Route 30** east. This trip, roughly 40 miles, can take 45-60 minutes. Akron, further afield, requires navigating **State Route 226** south to **U.S. Route 250** east, then connecting to **Interstate 77** north. This route, approximately 60 miles, could consume 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes.

These drive times, while manageable, highlight the reliance on personal vehicles. Factors like inclement weather, which is common in Ohio, could significantly extend travel times, potentially impacting appointments and treatments. The Breast Cancer Score will consider this dependency on private **transportation**.

**Public Transit Limitations:**

Public transportation options in Lakeville are limited. Holmes County does not have a dedicated public bus system. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals without access to a personal vehicle, making healthcare access more challenging. The absence of accessible public transportation, including ADA-compliant features, further restricts options for those with mobility limitations. This deficiency is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score.

The closest regional transit service is the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA), which serves Canton and surrounding areas. However, SARTA’s reach does not extend to Lakeville, necessitating a private **transportation** solution to reach a SARTA route. This adds an extra layer of complexity and cost to accessing healthcare.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, although their availability may be less consistent in rural areas like Lakeville compared to larger cities. Demand and driver availability can fluctuate, particularly during off-peak hours or inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for critical medical appointments could present challenges.

Medical transport services, such as MedTrans or First Medical Transportation, offer specialized transportation for patients with medical needs. These services provide door-to-door assistance and are equipped to handle individuals with mobility issues. While these services can be a lifeline, they often come with a higher cost than ride-sharing or personal **transportation**.

**The Breast Cancer Score and Considerations for Moving to Lakeville:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Lakeville (44638) is influenced by several factors. The primary strength is the relatively short drive to Wooster Community Hospital. However, the limited public **transportation**, the reliance on personal vehicles, and the potential for extended travel times to specialized care centers in Canton or Akron present challenges.

For individuals considering a move to Lakeville with a history of breast cancer or a high risk of developing it, careful consideration of **transportation** options is essential. Evaluating the availability of family or friends to provide rides, exploring the feasibility of ride-sharing services, and researching the cost and reliability of medical transport services are crucial steps.

The Breast Cancer Score for Lakeville would be moderate, reflecting a balance between accessibility and potential limitations. While local healthcare options exist, the reliance on private **transportation** and the absence of robust public transit require proactive planning and potentially increased costs.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize proximity:** When choosing a home, consider proximity to Wooster Community Hospital and other relevant medical facilities.
* **Assess personal transportation:** Ensure reliable access to a vehicle or explore alternative **transportation** options.
* **Research ride-sharing and medical transport:** Investigate the availability, cost, and reliability of ride-sharing and medical transport services in the area.
* **Build a support network:** Establish a network of family, friends, or community members who can provide assistance with **transportation** to appointments.
* **Consider telehealth:** Explore the availability of telehealth services for follow-up appointments and consultations to minimize travel.
* **Contact local healthcare providers:** Inquire about patient **transportation** assistance programs offered by local hospitals or clinics.

Moving to Lakeville can offer a desirable lifestyle, but for those managing or at risk for breast cancer, a thorough understanding of healthcare access and **transportation** options is paramount. By proactively addressing these considerations, individuals can make informed decisions that prioritize their health and well-being. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a reminder that while Lakeville offers tranquility, careful planning is essential to ensure seamless access to the vital healthcare services needed for comprehensive breast cancer care.