44864, Perrysville, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 44864, Perrysville, Ohio is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.28 percent of residents in 44864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 16.24 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ohiohealth Mansfield Hospital with a distance of 12.88 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 44864 (Perrysville, Ohio)**

Perrysville, Ohio (ZIP Code 44864), a charming village nestled in the rolling hills of Ashland County, presents a unique tapestry of life. However, when considering healthcare access, particularly for a critical diagnosis like breast cancer, the idyllic facade gives way to a complex reality. This analysis, a "Breast Cancer Score," delves into the transportation landscape that dictates a resident's journey to potentially life-saving care. It examines drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation options, painting a picture of healthcare access for someone *moving to Perrysville*.

The Breast Cancer Score is not a numerical rating, but a descriptive assessment of the challenges and opportunities presented by the local transportation infrastructure. It considers the practical realities of navigating the region, from the convenience of a short drive to the complexities of relying on public transit or ride-sharing services. It's a crucial consideration for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis, as timely access to treatment can significantly impact outcomes.

**The Road to Treatment: Drive Times and Highways**

For residents of Perrysville, the automobile reigns supreme as the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to comprehensive breast cancer care often involves a drive to larger medical centers in surrounding cities. The journey, however, is not always straightforward.

The closest major medical center, University Hospitals Samaritan Medical Center in Ashland, is approximately a 20-minute drive, typically via **State Route 302** and **US-250**. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic can be a factor during peak hours or inclement weather. This quick trip offers a relatively good start for healthcare access.

For more specialized care, including advanced oncology services and clinical trials, patients might need to travel to Cleveland Clinic or The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital. These destinations, however, are significantly further.

Reaching Cleveland Clinic, a journey of roughly 90 miles, requires navigating **US-250** to **I-71 North**. The drive, usually taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes, can be arduous, particularly with the potential for heavy traffic, especially during rush hour. This journey requires careful planning and consideration of the patient's physical condition.

The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, located in Columbus, presents an even longer commute. The drive, approximately 110 miles, involves taking **US-250** to **I-71 South**. The journey, which can take upwards of two hours, underscores the importance of considering the time commitment when choosing a healthcare provider.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation options in and around Perrysville are severely limited, posing a significant barrier to healthcare access for those without personal vehicles. Ashland County-West Holmes Transportation is the local public transit provider, but its services are primarily demand-response, meaning riders must schedule trips in advance.

The Ashland County-West Holmes Transportation operates on a limited schedule, and the availability of ADA-accessible vehicles is crucial for patients with mobility limitations. While the service strives to accommodate individuals with disabilities, the reliance on pre-arranged trips can make it challenging to access timely care, especially for urgent appointments or unexpected complications.

The lack of robust public transit emphasizes the need for alternative transportation solutions, particularly for those who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle. This is a significant consideration for anyone *moving to Perrysville* and requiring regular medical appointments.

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

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Ashland area, offering a potential solution for transportation. However, their availability and affordability can vary. The cost of a ride-share to Cleveland or Columbus, for instance, could be prohibitive for some patients, especially those undergoing multiple treatments.

Medical transportation services, such as CareRide and FirstMed, specialize in transporting patients to and from medical appointments. These services often offer door-to-door service and can accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. However, they typically require advance booking and may have limited availability, especially for appointments outside of standard business hours.

The reliance on ride-sharing and medical transportation services highlights the critical need for community support and resourcefulness. Family, friends, and local organizations often play a vital role in providing transportation assistance, especially for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access**

The transportation challenges in Perrysville directly impact healthcare access for breast cancer patients. The extended drive times to specialized care centers, the limitations of public transit, and the potential cost of ride-sharing services can create significant barriers. These barriers can lead to delayed diagnoses, missed appointments, and reduced access to potentially life-saving treatments.

The Breast Cancer Score for Perrysville underscores the importance of proactive planning and resourcefulness. Patients must carefully consider their transportation options, explore available support networks, and advocate for improved access to healthcare services.

**Moving to Perrysville: A Call for Awareness**

For individuals *moving to Perrysville*, understanding the transportation landscape is essential. Prospective residents should research the availability of transportation options, consider the proximity to healthcare facilities, and assess their ability to navigate the region.

The Breast Cancer Score serves as a call for increased awareness and community action. It highlights the need for:

* Improved public transit options, including expanded routes and schedules.
* Increased availability of ride-sharing services and medical transportation.
* Greater community support networks to assist patients with transportation needs.
* Advocacy for policies that promote healthcare access in rural communities.

By addressing these challenges, Perrysville can strive to create a healthcare environment that is more accessible and supportive for all residents, particularly those facing the difficult journey of breast cancer treatment. The journey to healthcare shouldn't be an obstacle; it should be a pathway to hope and healing.