44855, North Fairfield, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44855, North Fairfield, Ohio is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

58.15 percent of residents in 44855 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.41 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Willard Hospital with a distance of 6.95 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in North Fairfield (ZIP Code 44855)

The specter of breast cancer casts a long shadow, demanding proactive screening and accessible treatment. For residents of North Fairfield, Ohio (ZIP code 44855), understanding the landscape of healthcare access is paramount. This write-up delves into the transportation options available, offering a "Breast Cancer Score" to assess the ease with which individuals can reach vital healthcare services. This score will consider drive times, public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport, ultimately painting a picture of healthcare accessibility for potential residents or those already calling North Fairfield home.

The cornerstone of this assessment lies in the ability to reach a comprehensive breast cancer center. While North Fairfield itself is a small community, the nearest facilities offering specialized care are located in larger towns and cities. The primary destinations for breast cancer treatment and screening will likely be in Norwalk, Mansfield, and potentially Ashland.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Asphalt Arteries**

The most common mode of transportation for accessing healthcare in 44855 is undoubtedly the personal vehicle. The convenience and flexibility of a car are often essential, especially when dealing with medical appointments and potential follow-up visits.

Traveling to Norwalk, the county seat of Huron County, involves navigating a network of local roads and highways. The most direct route typically utilizes **US-224** east, a major east-west artery. The drive time to Fisher-Titus Medical Center in Norwalk is generally around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This hospital offers comprehensive breast cancer services, including screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Venturing to Mansfield, a larger city with more extensive healthcare options, requires a longer journey. The most efficient route involves taking **State Route 18** east, then connecting to **US-71** south. The drive time to OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital, which provides breast cancer care, is roughly 45 minutes to an hour, again contingent on traffic.

Ashland, another potential destination, is accessible via **US-250** south. The drive time to University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland, which offers breast cancer services, is also around 45 minutes to an hour.

These drive times represent the baseline. Residents should factor in potential delays due to weather, road construction, or rush-hour traffic. The Breast Cancer Score for personal vehicle access is moderately favorable, given the distances involved.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Reach**

Public transportation in North Fairfield and the surrounding areas is extremely limited. The availability of buses and other forms of public transit is not extensive. This presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not own a car or are unable to drive.

There is no dedicated public bus service that directly connects North Fairfield to the healthcare facilities in Norwalk, Mansfield, or Ashland. This lack of public transit severely impacts the Breast Cancer Score for individuals reliant on these services.

The lack of public transportation options highlights a critical challenge for residents who may be elderly, have disabilities, or simply cannot afford a personal vehicle. The absence of accessible and reliable public transit significantly diminishes their ability to receive timely and consistent healthcare.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without access to a personal vehicle. However, the availability of these services in North Fairfield can be inconsistent, and the cost can be a significant factor.

The Breast Cancer Score is somewhat improved by the potential of ride-sharing, but it is not a guaranteed solution. The reliability of these services, especially for early morning appointments or late-night discharges, must be considered.

Medical transport services provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often cater to patients requiring assistance getting to and from appointments. Several medical transport companies serve the area, including First Call Medical Transportation, and others. These services can be invaluable for those who need assistance with mobility or require specialized equipment.

The Breast Cancer Score is further enhanced by the availability of medical transport, particularly for individuals facing physical limitations. However, the cost of these services can be substantial, and prior arrangements are often necessary.

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

Considering all factors, the Breast Cancer Score for residents of North Fairfield (44855) is moderate. The primary advantage is the accessibility of healthcare via personal vehicle, with drive times ranging from 20 minutes to an hour. However, the lack of public transportation, the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing, and the expense of medical transport create significant barriers for some individuals.

**Moving to North Fairfield: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For those considering moving to North Fairfield, understanding the healthcare landscape is crucial. Prospective residents should carefully assess their transportation needs and consider the potential challenges of accessing healthcare services.

Individuals who rely on public transit or have limited mobility should carefully evaluate the available options and consider the potential impact on their healthcare access. The absence of robust public transit and the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially expensive ride-sharing services should be a key factor in their decision-making process.

Furthermore, individuals with a history of breast cancer or a heightened risk should prioritize proximity to comprehensive breast cancer centers and ensure they have a reliable transportation plan in place.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Healthcare Access**

Healthcare access is a fundamental right, and the ability to reach essential services, including breast cancer screening and treatment, is critical. While North Fairfield offers a peaceful and close-knit community, the limitations in transportation options pose a challenge for some residents.

By understanding the available transportation resources, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they can access the vital services they require. The Breast Cancer Score serves as a guide, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare access landscape in North Fairfield, empowering residents to prioritize their health and well-being. This is especially important for women in the area.