44709, Canton, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44709, Canton, Ohio is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

78.88 percent of residents in 44709 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.78 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Medical Center with a distance of 1.88 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Canton's 44709

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires accessible, reliable transportation, a critical component in the overall well-being of patients. This analysis delves into the transportation landscape surrounding breast cancer care within Canton, Ohio's 44709 ZIP code, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment to illuminate the ease (or difficulty) of reaching vital medical services. This information is particularly valuable for individuals considering moving to Canton, ensuring they can readily access the care they need.

The 44709 ZIP code, encompassing a significant portion of Canton, presents a mixed bag of transportation options. While the area benefits from a network of roadways, public transit presents limitations. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer supplementary support, yet their availability and affordability can vary. Evaluating these factors, we begin to paint a picture of healthcare access within this community.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Roads**

For many residents, personal vehicles remain the primary mode of transportation. The 44709 area is strategically positioned with access to major thoroughfares. Interstate 77 (I-77) serves as the primary north-south artery, offering relatively quick access to healthcare facilities located both north and south of the ZIP code. The drive to Aultman Hospital, a prominent healthcare provider, typically takes around 10-15 minutes via I-77 South and 12th Street NW.

US Route 62, another critical roadway, intersects with I-77, providing east-west connectivity. This route is particularly relevant for accessing facilities located further east, such as Mercy Medical Center, though traffic congestion during peak hours can extend travel times. Navigating US Route 30, which runs parallel to the southern border of 44709, presents another option. However, depending on the specific origin point within the ZIP code, this route might involve navigating local roads, such as Whipple Avenue NW or Cleveland Avenue NW, to reach the interstate or the hospital.

The condition of these roadways, particularly during inclement weather, can significantly impact drive times. Snow and ice, common during Ohio winters, can create hazardous conditions, potentially delaying or even preventing access to essential medical appointments. This factor underscores the importance of considering weather patterns when assessing transportation reliability.

**Public Transit Challenges: Navigating the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA)**

Public transportation, while offering a potentially affordable alternative, presents significant limitations within the 44709 area. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus services, but route frequency and coverage are not as extensive as in larger metropolitan areas. This can create challenges for individuals needing to reach healthcare facilities.

Several SARTA routes serve the 44709 ZIP code. Route 101, for instance, travels along Cleveland Avenue NW, offering access to various points within the city. Route 103 operates along Tuscarawas Street West, providing another option for east-west travel. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, may not align with the scheduling needs of medical appointments.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair accessibility, are available on all SARTA buses, a crucial consideration for patients with mobility limitations. However, the reliance on fixed routes and schedules can be a significant barrier. The time required to travel by bus, including waiting times and potential transfers, can be substantially longer than driving, adding to the stress and fatigue of patients undergoing treatment.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services are generally available within the 44709 area, providing on-demand transportation to and from healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, particularly for frequent appointments. Furthermore, the availability of drivers can fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with lower demand.

Medical transport services, specializing in transporting patients to and from medical appointments, offer a valuable alternative. Companies like First Transit or local providers may offer services tailored to the specific needs of patients, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles and assistance with boarding and disembarking. These services often require advance booking, and costs can vary depending on the distance and level of care required.

**The Breast Cancer Score: A Composite Assessment**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 44709 considers the interplay of these transportation options. It weighs the accessibility of major healthcare providers, the reliability of driving times, the limitations of public transit, and the availability and affordability of ride-sharing and medical transport.

Given the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public transit, the score reflects a moderate level of healthcare access. While major hospitals are within reasonable driving distance, the dependence on personal vehicles can be a challenge for individuals without access to a car or those unable to drive. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides supplemental support, but their cost and availability remain factors.

**Moving to Canton: Considerations for Breast Cancer Patients**

For individuals considering moving to Canton and specifically residing within the 44709 ZIP code, the transportation landscape should be a primary consideration. Assessing the proximity of healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the potential costs associated with accessing medical care is crucial.

Individuals should investigate the specific routes to their preferred healthcare providers, considering both driving times and public transit options. They should also research the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services. Furthermore, evaluating the accessibility of these services for individuals with disabilities is essential.

Ultimately, the "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for a more comprehensive assessment. It highlights the importance of transportation in ensuring access to timely and effective breast cancer care. By understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities within the 44709 ZIP code, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the support they need.