44853, New Riegel, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44853, New Riegel, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

73.03 percent of residents in 44853 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.21 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Tiffin Hospital with a distance of 6.20 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in New Riegel, Ohio (ZIP Code 44853)

Considering a move to New Riegel, Ohio, a quaint village nestled in Seneca County, and concerned about healthcare access, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment? This analysis provides a "Breast Cancer Score" – a subjective assessment of the ease and efficiency of accessing breast cancer-related healthcare services, factoring in various transportation options available from ZIP Code 44853. This score is not a definitive medical judgment, but a guide to understanding the logistical realities of accessing care.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, and ride-sharing possibilities to reach key healthcare providers. It aims to paint a picture of the ease of movement, recognizing that effective *transportation* is critical for timely and consistent healthcare. We will explore the options, weighing their strengths and weaknesses to provide a nuanced view for potential residents.

The Breast Cancer Score for New Riegel will be based on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 representing severely limited access and 5 indicating excellent access. This score reflects the combined ease of reaching screening, diagnostic, and treatment facilities. It is not a measure of the quality of care, but a snapshot of the *healthcare access* landscape.

**Drive Times: The Backbone of Access**

For many residents of New Riegel, the personal vehicle is the primary mode of *transportation*. The nearest hospitals and specialized cancer centers are accessible via a network of local roads and highways. Driving times are crucial, as they impact the ability to attend appointments, undergo treatments, and receive timely care.

The most direct route to Tiffin, Ohio, the county seat and home to Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital, involves traveling on Township Road 118, connecting to US-224. This drive typically takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital offers basic screening services, including mammograms, making it a convenient initial point of contact.

For more specialized care, including diagnostic procedures and treatment, patients often travel to larger medical centers. The drive to ProMedica Memorial Hospital in Fremont, Ohio, involves a journey of approximately 30-40 minutes. This route primarily uses OH-19 and US-20, offering a more comprehensive range of services, including surgical oncology and radiation therapy.

The drive to the University of Toledo Medical Center, a larger facility with specialized cancer care, is considerably longer, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This route involves traveling on US-224, connecting to I-75 North. While offering advanced treatment options, the longer drive time could pose a challenge for frequent appointments.

Finally, for those seeking specialized care at the Cleveland Clinic, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes is required. This involves traveling on US-224, connecting to I-71 North. This drive is the longest, but it provides access to a world-renowned cancer center.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public *transportation* options in New Riegel are extremely limited. Seneca County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The lack of public transit significantly impacts *healthcare access* for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive. This is a major drawback, particularly for individuals facing mobility challenges or those who cannot afford the costs of driving.

The availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is also a concern, as it is essential for individuals with disabilities to be able to access healthcare services. Without a robust public transit system, the reliance on other *transportation* options becomes critical.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments.

Medical *transportation* services, such as those offered by private companies, are another option. These services often provide door-to-door *transportation* specifically for medical appointments. While they can be a reliable option, they typically come with a higher cost than ride-sharing or public transit. The availability of these services and their associated costs should be carefully considered.

**Breast Cancer Score for New Riegel (44853)**

Considering the factors discussed, the Breast Cancer Score for New Riegel, Ohio (44853) is a **3 out of 5**.

This score reflects the following:

* **Strengths:** Relatively short drive times to basic screening services in Tiffin and a reasonable drive to more comprehensive care in Fremont.
* **Weaknesses:** Extremely limited public transit options, the potential for ride-sharing availability and cost challenges, and the longer drive times to specialized centers like Toledo and Cleveland.

**Conclusion: Navigating Healthcare in New Riegel**

For individuals considering *moving to New Riegel*, Ohio, it is crucial to understand the *transportation* landscape and its impact on *healthcare access*, particularly for breast cancer care. While the proximity to Tiffin offers convenient screening, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options pose challenges. Ride-sharing and medical *transportation* services offer alternative solutions, but their availability and cost should be carefully considered. The Breast Cancer Score of 3 reflects a moderate level of access, emphasizing the importance of planning and resourcefulness in navigating the healthcare system. This information is provided to help individuals assess their own needs and make informed decisions about their healthcare.