44640, Limaville, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44640, Limaville, Ohio is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

41.82 percent of residents in 44640 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.59 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Alliance Community Hospital with a distance of 6.03 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Limaville (ZIP Code 44640)

The journey to healthcare, particularly when facing a breast cancer diagnosis, is a multifaceted challenge. It extends beyond the medical complexities to encompass the practicalities of *transportation* and *healthcare access*. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of breast cancer care for residents of Limaville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44640), providing a "Breast Cancer Score" based on the available *transportation* options. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, aiming to provide a realistic assessment for those *moving to Limaville* or already residing there.

Limaville, a small village nestled in Stark County, presents a unique set of circumstances. While offering a tranquil lifestyle, its rural location necessitates a keen understanding of *transportation* options to access specialized medical care. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer treatment centers are concentrated in Canton and Alliance, requiring residents to navigate the local road network.

**Drive Time Analysis:**

The primary artery connecting Limaville to the broader region is State Route 183. Traveling south on SR-183, you'll quickly intersect with US Route 62, a major east-west thoroughfare. Heading west on US-62 leads to Canton, the primary hub for advanced medical facilities. The drive to Aultman Hospital in Canton, a well-regarded cancer center, typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. This journey involves approximately 20 miles of driving, primarily on US-62.

Alternatively, heading east on US-62 offers access to Alliance, home to Alliance Community Hospital. The drive to Alliance is shorter, averaging 15-20 minutes and covering approximately 10 miles. This route is generally less congested than the Canton route, offering a quicker option for appointments or treatments.

For those residing on the outskirts of Limaville, access to these hospitals might be extended, potentially adding another 10-15 minutes to the drive time. This is especially relevant for residents located further east, requiring them to navigate local roads like Georgetown Road and Alliance-Limaville Road before reaching US-62. The condition of these secondary roads, particularly during inclement weather, can also impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit Considerations:**

Public *transportation* options in Limaville are limited. Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus service throughout Stark County, but service to Limaville is minimal. The availability of fixed-route buses in the immediate vicinity is practically nonexistent. This significantly impacts *healthcare access* for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

SARTA does offer a demand-response service, known as SARTA Connect. This service requires advance booking and operates within a defined service area. While SARTA Connect could potentially transport residents to medical appointments, it's essential to consider the booking lead time and potential delays. ADA-accessible vehicles are available, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize the service. However, the reliance on a demand-response system adds complexity to scheduling and requires careful planning.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate in the Canton and Alliance areas, offering another *transportation* alternative. However, availability in Limaville might be inconsistent, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, such as MedRide or American Medical Response (AMR), provide specialized transport for patients requiring assistance. These services are often equipped with trained medical personnel and can accommodate individuals with mobility issues or medical needs. While offering a reliable option, medical transport is typically the most expensive alternative and often requires pre-authorization from insurance providers.

**Breast Cancer Score and Recommendations:**

Considering the factors above, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Limaville (44640) is moderately challenging. The relatively short drive times to Canton and Alliance are a positive aspect, but the limited public *transportation* options and potential inconsistencies of ride-sharing services pose significant hurdles to *healthcare access*.

For individuals *moving to Limaville* or already residing there and facing a breast cancer diagnosis, the following recommendations are crucial:

* **Personal Vehicle is Paramount:** Owning a reliable vehicle is the most practical and efficient way to access medical care.
* **Explore SARTA Connect:** Investigate the feasibility of using SARTA Connect for appointments. Book appointments well in advance and confirm the pick-up and drop-off times.
* **Ride-Sharing Contingency:** Familiarize yourself with ride-sharing options in the area and have a backup plan in case of unavailability.
* **Medical Transport as a Last Resort:** Consider medical *transportation* services for appointments when other options are unavailable or when medical needs require specialized assistance.
* **Proactive Planning:** Develop a detailed *transportation* plan before treatment begins. This should include scheduling appointments strategically, considering traffic patterns, and allowing ample time for travel.
* **Support Network:** Enlist the help of family, friends, or community organizations to provide *transportation* support.
* **Advocate for Improved Public Transit:** Encourage local authorities to explore expanding public *transportation* services to better serve the needs of Limaville residents.

The Breast Cancer Score reflects the realities of *healthcare access* in a rural setting. While the drive times are manageable, the lack of robust public *transportation* and the potential for ride-sharing limitations require proactive planning and a reliance on personal vehicles. Understanding these challenges is crucial for ensuring timely and convenient access to breast cancer care for residents of Limaville.