44670, Robertsville, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44670, Robertsville, Ohio is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

0.00 percent of residents in 44670 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Medical Center with a distance of 11.39 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Robertsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44670)**

The journey to effective breast cancer care is often fraught with challenges, and geographical barriers can exacerbate these difficulties. This report assesses healthcare access for residents of Robertsville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44670), focusing on transportation options to key medical facilities offering diagnostic, treatment, and support services. This analysis aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a comprehensive evaluation of accessibility, considering drive times, public transit, ride-share availability, and medical transport services. Our goal is to empower potential residents and current community members by offering an informed perspective on the realities of healthcare access in this area.

Robertsville, a small community nestled in the heart of Ohio, presents a unique set of circumstances when it comes to healthcare access. The availability of transportation options significantly influences the ability of individuals to receive timely and appropriate care, particularly for a disease as time-sensitive as breast cancer. This analysis considers the practical aspects of reaching essential healthcare providers, including hospitals, imaging centers, oncologists, and support groups.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Route**

For many Robertsville residents, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation. Assessing drive times to nearby healthcare facilities is crucial. The primary route for accessing healthcare from Robertsville involves navigating the local roadways. To reach the closest comprehensive medical center, Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, residents typically utilize State Route 183, which connects to US Route 62. This route offers a relatively direct path, but traffic conditions, particularly during peak hours, can impact travel times.

The drive to Aultman Hospital, a facility with a dedicated breast care center, is approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. This drive time represents a reasonable level of accessibility for residents. However, the reliability of this travel time can be affected by weather conditions, particularly during the winter months when snow and ice can significantly slow down travel.

Alternative routes, such as utilizing local roads to connect to Interstate 77, may offer alternative options, but these routes often add additional travel time and complexity. The availability of healthcare access is a pivotal factor when considering moving to Robertsville.

**Public Transportation: Limited Options**

Public transportation options in and around Robertsville are limited. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus service throughout Stark County, but service to Robertsville itself is infrequent. Currently, SARTA does not have a dedicated route that directly serves Robertsville. Residents would need to travel to a nearby town, such as Alliance or Canton, to access SARTA services.

This lack of direct public transportation poses a significant challenge for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to physical limitations or other circumstances. The absence of regular bus service necessitates reliance on other modes of transportation, potentially increasing the time and cost associated with accessing healthcare.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility on SARTA buses is generally good, with features such as ramps or lifts and designated seating areas. However, the limited route options make it difficult for individuals with disabilities to reach healthcare facilities from Robertsville.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Canton area and can offer a viable transportation alternative. However, the availability of these services in Robertsville may be less reliable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, potentially adding to the financial burden of healthcare access.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by local ambulance companies or specialized medical transportation providers, are another option for individuals who require assistance getting to appointments. These services can provide door-to-door transportation, often with trained personnel to assist with mobility and medical needs. However, these services can be expensive and may require advance booking.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **Aultman Ambulance:** Provides emergency and non-emergency medical transportation services in the Stark County area.
* **LifeCare Ambulance:** Offers ambulance and medical transport services, including wheelchair transport and stretcher services.
* **FirstCall Medical Transportation:** Specializes in non-emergency medical transportation, including transportation to doctor's appointments, dialysis, and other medical facilities.

**Healthcare Access: A Multifaceted Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Robertsville, Ohio, must consider all these factors. While the drive time to Aultman Hospital is relatively reasonable, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services create challenges. The cost and availability of medical transport services further influence the overall accessibility picture.

The availability of support services, such as support groups and counseling, is also a critical component of comprehensive breast cancer care. Access to these resources can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment and recovery.

**Key Considerations for the Breast Cancer Score:**

* **Drive Time Reliability:** The consistency of travel times, considering traffic and weather conditions.
* **Public Transportation Availability:** The frequency and accessibility of bus routes and services.
* **Ride-Share Availability:** The reliability and cost of ride-sharing services.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability, cost, and accessibility of medical transport services.
* **Support Services:** The availability of support groups, counseling, and other resources.

**The "Breast Cancer Score" for Robertsville (44670):**

Based on this analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Robertsville is moderate. The primary challenge is the limited public transportation options and the potential unreliability of ride-sharing services. While drive times to key medical facilities are generally reasonable, the lack of alternative transportation options can create barriers for individuals without personal vehicles or those with mobility limitations.

**Recommendations for Improving Healthcare Access:**

* **Advocate for Increased Public Transportation:** Residents should advocate for expanded SARTA service to include a route that directly serves Robertsville or a nearby connection point.
* **Promote Ride-Sharing Awareness:** Encourage the use of ride-sharing services and explore options for subsidized transportation for those in need.
* **Support Medical Transport Services:** Ensure that medical transport services are readily available and affordable for residents.
* **Enhance Community Awareness:** Raise awareness about available resources, including support groups, counseling services, and financial assistance programs.
* **Explore Community Partnerships:** Collaborate with local organizations and healthcare providers to develop transportation solutions and improve healthcare access.

**Conclusion: A Call to Action**

Improving healthcare access in Robertsville requires a multi-pronged approach. By addressing the transportation challenges, promoting awareness of available resources, and advocating for expanded services, the community can work to ensure that all residents have access to the timely and appropriate care they need. This analysis provides a starting point for a more in-depth assessment and a call to action for improving healthcare access for all residents, especially those facing the challenges of breast cancer. The ability to easily access healthcare is a significant consideration for anyone moving to Robertsville.