44678, Somerdale, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44678, Somerdale, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.90 percent of residents in 44678 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.23 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Aultman Hospital with a distance of 16.12 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Access to Care in Somerdale, Ohio (ZIP Code 44678)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It necessitates reliable and accessible transportation, a crucial element in the overall patient experience. This assessment of transportation options for residents of Somerdale, Ohio (ZIP Code 44678) evaluates the accessibility of breast cancer care, considering drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. This analysis is essential for anyone considering moving to Somerdale, ensuring they understand the realities of healthcare access within their new community.

The most immediate factor influencing healthcare access is the distance to medical facilities. Somerdale, a rural community, presents a challenge in this regard. The nearest comprehensive cancer centers are located in larger cities, necessitating travel. Driving is the primary mode of transportation for most residents. The most direct route to major medical centers involves navigating the local road network.

For those seeking care at Aultman Hospital in Canton, a journey of approximately 25 miles, the primary route is via State Route 21. This drive, under normal traffic conditions, typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes. Traffic congestion can be a factor during peak commuting hours, potentially extending the travel time. Conversely, for treatment at Cleveland Clinic, a drive of approximately 70 miles is required. The primary route involves taking State Route 21 North to Interstate 77 North, then to Interstate 480 East, and finally to the Cleveland Clinic campus. This journey can take between 1 hour 15 minutes and 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

The time commitment for these drives underscores the importance of reliable personal transportation. The ability to drive oneself or have a trusted driver is a significant advantage. Those without personal vehicles face a more complex challenge.

Public transportation options in Somerdale are limited. Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides some service within Stark County, but the routes and schedules are not designed to cater to the specific needs of cancer patients. SARTA does not have any routes that directly serve Somerdale. The closest stops are several miles away and the services offered are not frequent. Therefore, public transit is not a viable option for most residents seeking breast cancer care.

ADA accessibility is a consideration for any public transportation service. SARTA does offer ADA-accessible buses. However, the lack of service directly into Somerdale, coupled with the infrequent schedules, renders this feature largely irrelevant for residents in need of cancer care.

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can be significant barriers. While these services can offer a convenient alternative to driving, the cost of frequent trips to and from medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden. The availability of drivers in a rural area can also be unpredictable, potentially leading to delays or cancellations.

Medical transport services offer specialized support for patients with mobility limitations. These services provide door-to-door transportation, often with medical personnel on board. However, medical transport services are typically expensive and may require advance booking. The availability of these services in the Somerdale area should be investigated by anyone considering moving to the area.

For residents of Somerdale, the availability of breast cancer care is heavily reliant on personal transportation. The drive times to major medical centers are significant, and the limited public transportation options exacerbate the challenge. Ride-sharing services offer a possible alternative, but the cost and reliability are concerns. Medical transport services are available but come with a high price tag.

The overall Breast Cancer Score for Somerdale, Ohio (ZIP Code 44678) reflects the challenges of transportation and healthcare access. The score is lower than that of communities with better public transportation and closer proximity to cancer centers. The score would improve with the availability of more frequent public transportation, the expansion of ride-sharing services, and the presence of more affordable medical transport options.

For individuals considering moving to Somerdale, a careful assessment of their transportation needs is essential. Those without reliable access to a car may face significant difficulties in accessing breast cancer care. The need for family support or the ability to afford ride-sharing services becomes even more critical. The importance of healthcare access should be a key consideration when making the decision to move to Somerdale.

The availability of support services within the community is another factor to consider. Cancer support groups, patient navigators, and other resources can help patients navigate the complexities of treatment and transportation. The presence of these resources can mitigate some of the challenges associated with healthcare access in a rural area.

In conclusion, the Breast Cancer Score for Somerdale highlights the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. While the community offers a peaceful environment, the distance to medical facilities and the limited transportation options pose significant challenges for individuals diagnosed with breast cancer. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and access to support services before making a move to Somerdale. The need for reliable transportation is paramount, and the lack of readily available options can significantly impact the quality of life for those seeking breast cancer care. The overall healthcare access in this area is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address the needs of the community.