45011, Hamilton, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45011, Hamilton, Ohio is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

64.17 percent of residents in 45011 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Fort Hamilton Hughes Memorial Hospital with a distance of 3.98 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Hamilton, Ohio (ZIP Code 45011)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as life-altering as breast cancer, is a complex one. It's a journey that extends beyond the medical examination room, encompassing the practicalities of **transportation** and **healthcare access**. This write-up analyzes the accessibility of breast cancer care within the 45011 ZIP code, the heart of Hamilton, Ohio, providing a "Breast Cancer Score" to help residents understand their options. For those considering **moving to Hamilton**, this information is invaluable.

Our analysis focuses on the critical elements: drive times to treatment centers, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. The goal is to paint a clear picture of the logistical landscape, recognizing that ease of access is a crucial component of a patient's overall well-being. This evaluation considers the specific challenges faced by individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, including potential mobility limitations and the need for frequent appointments.

The "Breast Cancer Score" is not a single number but a composite assessment based on the accessibility of various modes of **transportation**. It acknowledges the inherent variability in individual circumstances, from the availability of a personal vehicle to the ability to utilize public transit. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview, allowing residents to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey.

**Drive Time Analysis: The Road to Recovery**

For residents of 45011, the primary routes to breast cancer treatment centers involve navigating the roadways. Proximity to treatment facilities is crucial, especially when considering the frequency of appointments for diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

The most direct route to the closest major healthcare provider, Mercy Health – Fairfield Hospital, often involves taking **High Street** west and then connecting to **I-275 West**. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, is approximately 20-25 minutes. This route offers a relatively straightforward commute, but traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, can significantly impact travel time.

Another option is to travel east on **High Street** to **Ohio 129**, which offers access to various medical facilities in the surrounding areas. This route provides access to facilities in Middletown and beyond, although travel times can vary depending on the specific destination.

For those seeking specialized cancer care, the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, located in Cincinnati, is a primary destination. The most direct route involves taking **Ohio 4** south to **I-275 West** and then connecting to **I-75 South**. This drive, typically lasting 40-50 minutes, can be considerably longer during rush hour. The distance necessitates careful planning and consideration of potential delays.

The drive time analysis highlights the importance of considering traffic patterns, especially for those with limited mobility or undergoing treatment that may exacerbate fatigue.

**Public Transit: Navigating the Route**

The Butler County Regional Transit Authority (BCRTA) provides public **transportation** services within the 45011 ZIP code. The BCRTA offers several bus routes, including the **Route 1** (Hamilton-Oxford), **Route 2** (Hamilton-Fairfield), and **Route 3** (Hamilton-Middletown), which provide access to various points within Hamilton and the surrounding areas.

While these routes offer a viable option for some residents, the accessibility of these services to breast cancer patients requires careful consideration. The BCRTA is committed to providing accessible **transportation** options, with all buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and designated seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service, particularly on weekends and evenings, can be a limiting factor.

Patients undergoing treatment may face challenges in coordinating their appointments with the bus schedules. The need to transfer between routes, the potential for delays, and the physical demands of navigating the bus system can pose significant challenges.

Furthermore, the availability of ADA-compliant features at bus stops varies. While the BCRTA strives to improve accessibility, some stops may lack ramps or other features that would facilitate easy access for individuals with mobility limitations. Careful planning and coordination are essential for those relying on public transit.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Pathways**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another **transportation** alternative for residents of 45011. These services provide on-demand rides, offering greater flexibility than public transit. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant barrier, particularly for patients with frequent appointments.

The availability of ride-sharing services in Hamilton is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can increase the cost. Patients should factor in the cost of ride-sharing when planning their healthcare journey.

Specialized medical **transportation** services, such as CareRide and First Transit, are designed to cater to the specific needs of patients with medical conditions. These services offer door-to-door **transportation**, often with trained drivers who can assist with mobility needs.

Medical **transportation** services are particularly beneficial for patients who require assistance with getting in and out of vehicles or who are unable to drive themselves. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have limited availability. The cost of medical **transportation** can vary depending on the distance and the level of care required.

**Breast Cancer Score: A Holistic View**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 45011 reflects a mixed landscape. While the proximity to Mercy Health – Fairfield Hospital provides relatively easy access for many residents, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion are significant considerations.

Public transit offers a viable option, but the frequency of service, the need for transfers, and the potential for delays can pose challenges. Ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services provide alternative pathways, but the cost and availability of these services must be carefully evaluated.

For individuals **moving to Hamilton** and considering breast cancer care, the "Breast Cancer Score" highlights the importance of assessing individual needs and circumstances. Factors such as access to a personal vehicle, the ability to utilize public transit, and the financial resources available for ride-sharing or medical **transportation** will significantly impact the ease of accessing healthcare.

The **healthcare access** within 45011 presents a complex picture, requiring a nuanced understanding of the available **transportation** options. The "Breast Cancer Score" emphasizes the need for careful planning, proactive coordination, and a willingness to explore all available resources to ensure that residents can access the vital care they need. The journey to recovery is challenging enough; navigating the logistical hurdles of **transportation** should not be an added burden.