44721, Canton, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44721, Canton, Ohio is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.14 percent of residents in 44721 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.17 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Medical Center with a distance of 5.55 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 44721

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, demands more than just medical expertise. It requires accessible and reliable transportation. This write-up delves into the transportation landscape within ZIP code 44721, assessing its impact on **healthcare access** for those facing breast cancer, offering insights for individuals considering **moving to Canton**, and ultimately, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the ease or difficulty of reaching vital medical appointments.

ZIP code 44721, encompassing a significant portion of Canton, Ohio, presents a mixed bag when it comes to **transportation**. The area's layout, a blend of suburban sprawl and pockets of urban density, influences the options available for those seeking breast cancer care. The availability and efficiency of these choices directly impact the emotional and physical toll of treatment, underscoring the critical need for informed decision-making.

For those who rely on personal vehicles, the road network in 44721 offers a degree of convenience. Primary arteries like Interstate 77 (I-77) and U.S. Route 62 (US-62), along with local thoroughfares like Whipple Avenue NW and Fulton Drive NW, provide access to major healthcare facilities. The drive times, however, can fluctuate dramatically depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

The Mercy Medical Center, a prominent healthcare provider in Canton, is a central hub for breast cancer treatment. Reaching Mercy from various points within 44721 can range from a quick 10-minute drive during off-peak hours to a frustrating 25-minute commute during rush hour. The I-77 corridor often experiences congestion, particularly near the Belden Village area, which could significantly lengthen travel times.

Another significant medical facility, Aultman Hospital, is also accessible, though slightly further afield. Drive times to Aultman from 44721 average 15-30 minutes, depending on the specific location within the ZIP code and the chosen route. Navigating the city streets, including major roads like 12th Street NW and Market Avenue North, requires careful attention to traffic signals and potential delays.

Public **transportation** options in 44721 are less robust than those available in larger metropolitan areas. The Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA) provides bus services throughout the county, including routes that serve 44721. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, may be limited.

Several SARTA routes, including the 101, 102, and 103, offer connections within the 44721 area. These routes, while offering a degree of **transportation** independence, may involve multiple transfers to reach specific healthcare facilities. The journey time via public **transportation** can be significantly longer than driving, potentially adding an hour or more to the overall commute.

ADA accessibility is a crucial consideration for individuals with mobility limitations. SARTA strives to provide accessible buses, but the availability of elevators and ramps at all bus stops may be inconsistent. This can pose challenges for patients undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue, weakness, or other physical limitations.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Canton area. These services offer a more flexible and convenient alternative to public **transportation**, particularly for those who cannot drive or prefer not to. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate, especially for frequent appointments, and surge pricing during peak hours can further inflate expenses.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed to assist patients with medical appointments, offer another option. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical **transportation**, often with specialized vehicles and trained drivers. These services can be particularly beneficial for patients who require assistance with mobility or those who live outside the immediate service area of public **transportation**.

The cost of medical **transportation** services varies depending on the distance, the level of assistance required, and the specific provider. While these services can provide peace of mind and ensure timely arrival at appointments, they represent an additional financial burden for patients.

Considering all the factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for **healthcare access** in 44721 is moderately challenging. While the presence of major highways and the availability of ride-sharing services offer some convenience, the limitations of public **transportation**, the potential for traffic delays, and the cost of specialized medical **transportation** services create obstacles.

The score is tempered by the presence of Mercy Medical Center and Aultman Hospital, both providing comprehensive breast cancer care. However, the overall score is diminished by the reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public **transportation**, and the potential financial burden of alternative **transportation** options.

For individuals considering **moving to Canton** and facing a breast cancer diagnosis or treatment, careful consideration of **transportation** needs is crucial. Proximity to major roads, the availability of reliable ride-sharing services, and the potential need for medical **transportation** should all be factored into the decision-making process.

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 44721 reflects a need for improved public **transportation** options, increased accessibility for individuals with mobility limitations, and greater affordability of medical **transportation** services. Addressing these issues would significantly enhance **healthcare access** and improve the overall quality of life for breast cancer patients in the Canton area.