44645, Marshallville, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44645, Marshallville, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

69.26 percent of residents in 44645 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Orrville Hospital with a distance of 5.51 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Marshallville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44645)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for critical needs like breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is a complex equation. It involves not just the availability of medical services but also the ease with which those services can be accessed. This write-up, a "Breast Cancer Score" analysis, examines the transportation landscape surrounding Marshallville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44645), assessing the challenges and opportunities for individuals seeking breast cancer care. We delve into drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive overview for anyone considering moving to Marshallville or already residing within its bounds.

Marshallville, a quaint village nestled in Wayne County, Ohio, presents a unique set of transportation challenges. While the area boasts a peaceful, rural charm, the proximity to specialized medical care, including breast cancer services, necessitates careful consideration of transportation options. The "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate these factors, empowering residents with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare access.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roadways**

For many Marshallville residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Accessing comprehensive breast cancer care often means traveling to larger cities like Wooster, Akron, or Canton, where specialized oncology centers and surgical facilities are located.

The most direct route to Wooster, the county seat, typically involves navigating **State Route 226** and **State Route 585**. The drive, covering approximately 10 miles, usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Wooster Community Hospital, affiliated with Cleveland Clinic, offers a range of breast cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

For more specialized care, residents might consider traveling to Akron or Canton. Reaching Akron, approximately 35 miles away, requires utilizing **State Route 226** to **U.S. Route 30 East**, then connecting to **Interstate 76 West**. The drive time can range from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Akron boasts several hospitals with comprehensive cancer centers, including Summa Health System and Akron Children's Hospital, providing advanced treatment options.

Canton, situated about 30 miles from Marshallville, can be accessed via **State Route 226** to **U.S. Route 30 East**, then merging onto **Interstate 77 North**. The journey typically takes 40 to 50 minutes. Mercy Medical Center and Aultman Hospital in Canton offer comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgical oncology.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Accessibility Concerns**

Public transportation options in the Marshallville area are limited. Wayne County Transit offers a demand-response service, meaning rides must be scheduled in advance. This service, however, may not be ideal for urgent medical appointments or those requiring frequent trips.

The lack of fixed-route public transportation presents a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. While Wayne County Transit strives to provide ADA-compliant vehicles, the scheduling process and potential wait times can be challenging for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

The availability of public transportation directly impacts healthcare access. For individuals unable to drive, the reliance on demand-response services can create logistical hurdles, potentially delaying appointments or limiting access to specialized care. This highlights the importance of exploring alternative transportation solutions.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Marshallville area, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicles or public transit. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in rural areas. Ride-sharing costs can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a specialized solution. These services often provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist patients. Companies like MedRide and First Call Medical Transportation operate in the region, offering non-emergency medical transportation.

The availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport services are crucial for enhancing healthcare access. They provide a lifeline for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to reliable transportation. However, the cost of these services can pose a financial burden, particularly for those undergoing cancer treatment, which often involves numerous appointments and procedures.

**The "Breast Cancer Score": A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Marshallville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44645) reflects a complex interplay of factors impacting healthcare access. While the proximity to Wooster offers relatively convenient access to basic services, the need for specialized care often necessitates travel to larger cities, increasing drive times and transportation costs.

The limitations of public transit and the reliance on demand-response services create significant barriers for individuals without personal vehicles. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer valuable alternatives, but their availability, affordability, and reliability can vary.

For individuals considering moving to Marshallville, understanding these transportation challenges is crucial. Prospective residents should assess their transportation needs and explore available options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing, medical transport, and the potential for assistance from family or friends.

The "Breast Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare landscape. It underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation options and ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need.

**Looking Ahead: Enhancing Healthcare Access**

Improving healthcare access in Marshallville requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes advocating for expanded public transit options, supporting the availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and promoting community-based initiatives to assist individuals with transportation needs.

Furthermore, healthcare providers can play a crucial role by offering telehealth services, providing transportation assistance programs, and partnering with community organizations to address transportation barriers. By working collaboratively, the community can strive to create a more accessible and equitable healthcare environment for all residents, ensuring that those facing breast cancer have the support they need to navigate their journey with dignity and ease. The goal is to enhance healthcare access and ensure that transportation does not become an insurmountable obstacle to receiving timely and effective care.