45014, Fairfield, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45014, Fairfield, Ohio is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.47 percent of residents in 45014 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 6.00 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Fairfield Hospital with a distance of 2.06 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Fairfield, Ohio (ZIP Code 45014)**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as breast cancer, is a complex one. It’s not just about the medical expertise available, but also about the ease and accessibility of reaching that expertise. This analysis delves into the landscape of transportation options within and around Fairfield, Ohio (ZIP code 45014), to assess the ease of access to breast cancer care, ultimately contributing to a "Breast Cancer Score" reflecting the realities of healthcare access for residents.

Fairfield, a vibrant community, is situated in Butler County, Ohio, and its residents are fortunate to have access to a variety of healthcare facilities. However, the quality of healthcare access hinges on the available transportation options. This is especially true for individuals facing the challenges of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, where regular appointments, potential side effects, and the need for support systems can make transportation a significant hurdle.

**Driving the Route to Care:**

For many, the car remains the primary mode of transportation. Within Fairfield, access to major thoroughfares is generally good. The primary routes for accessing healthcare facilities include Interstate 275 (I-275), which encircles the Cincinnati metropolitan area, and State Route 4 (SR-4), a major north-south artery.

From Fairfield, a drive to the nearest major hospital with comprehensive cancer care, such as the UC Health West Chester Hospital, is typically a manageable 20-30 minute commute, depending on traffic conditions. This drive primarily utilizes I-275 and then transitions onto roads like Cincinnati-Dayton Road. The commute to TriHealth’s Bethesda North Hospital, another prominent cancer care provider, involves a slightly longer drive, closer to 40-50 minutes, navigating I-275 and Interstate 71 (I-71).

Traffic, however, can significantly impact these drive times. Rush hour, particularly during weekday mornings and evenings, can cause delays, potentially adding 15-20 minutes to the journey. Residents should factor in these considerations when planning appointments and treatments.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation in the Fairfield area, provided by the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), is available but limited. The Metro bus system serves the region, but routes within Fairfield are less frequent and may not directly connect to all healthcare facilities.

The closest Metro bus route to healthcare facilities is Route 1, which connects to downtown Cincinnati and includes stops near major hospitals. However, the travel time on this route is considerably longer, often exceeding an hour, due to multiple stops and transfers. The lack of direct routes and the potential for lengthy travel times make public transit a less viable option for many residents, especially those undergoing treatment who may experience fatigue or other side effects.

ADA accessibility is a critical consideration. SORTA buses are equipped with features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, including ramps and designated seating. However, the reliance on bus schedules and potential for long travel times can still pose challenges for those with mobility limitations.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services are readily available in the Fairfield area and can provide door-to-door service to healthcare facilities. The cost of ride-sharing can vary depending on demand and distance, but it provides a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are also available. These services often provide specialized vehicles and trained drivers to assist patients with mobility challenges. Companies like CareRide and First Transit Medical Transportation offer these services in the Cincinnati area. These services can be a valuable resource for individuals who are unable to drive or utilize other forms of transportation.

**Healthcare Access and Moving to Fairfield:**

The availability of diverse transportation options is a crucial factor for residents considering moving to Fairfield, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions or a family history of breast cancer. The ease of access to healthcare facilities, including hospitals, oncology centers, and specialized clinics, can significantly impact the quality of life and the ability to receive timely and effective care.

For individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, the ability to attend regular appointments, undergo treatments, and access support services is essential. The availability of transportation options, such as convenient driving routes, reliable ride-sharing services, and specialized medical transportation, can ease the burden of treatment and improve overall well-being.

**Breast Cancer Score: An Assessment**

Based on the analysis of transportation options in Fairfield (ZIP code 45014), the "Breast Cancer Score" reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to major highways and the availability of ride-sharing services offer convenient access to healthcare facilities, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic congestion pose challenges.

The score would be influenced by factors such as:

* **Drive Times:** The average drive time to major cancer care facilities, considering traffic conditions.
* **Public Transit Accessibility:** The availability and frequency of public transit routes to healthcare facilities, including ADA accessibility.
* **Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport Availability:** The ease of accessing ride-sharing services and medical transportation options.
* **Cost of Transportation:** The financial burden of transportation, considering the cost of driving, ride-sharing, and medical transport.

The overall "Breast Cancer Score" for Fairfield, Ohio (ZIP code 45014) would likely be in the moderate range. While the area benefits from proximity to major highways and the availability of ride-sharing, the limitations of public transit and the potential for traffic delays warrant consideration. Residents and those considering moving to Fairfield should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences when assessing the ease of healthcare access.

The score would be a valuable tool for individuals seeking to understand the realities of healthcare access in the area, enabling informed decisions about their healthcare journey. Further research, including surveys of residents and analysis of transportation data, could refine the score and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in Fairfield.