45150, Milford, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45150, Milford, Ohio is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

60.47 percent of residents in 45150 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.77 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bethesda North with a distance of 7.38 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Milford, Ohio (ZIP Code 45150)

The insidious nature of breast cancer demands swift and reliable access to care. For residents of Milford, Ohio (ZIP code 45150), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care is a critical component of their overall well-being. This assessment, a "Breast Cancer Score," examines the ease with which individuals in this community can access vital healthcare services, focusing on the transportation landscape.

The score considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and specialized medical transport services. It acknowledges that the ability to navigate these systems directly impacts a patient's ability to adhere to treatment plans, attend appointments, and ultimately, improve their chances of survival.

Milford, nestled in the rolling hills of Clermont County, offers a blend of suburban and rural living. While the community itself is charming, the surrounding healthcare infrastructure is dispersed. This necessitates a careful evaluation of transportation options to ensure equitable healthcare access for all residents, particularly those facing the challenges of breast cancer.

**Driving the Distance: Navigating the Roads to Recovery**

For many Milford residents, the primary mode of transportation is the automobile. The ease of navigating local roadways is paramount. The primary arteries for accessing healthcare facilities are State Route 28, connecting Milford to nearby towns and cities, and Interstate 275, the regional loop.

Driving to the University of Cincinnati Health locations, such as the Barrett Cancer Center, involves navigating I-275 and then transitioning onto various surface streets depending on the specific location. Peak traffic hours, particularly during morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend travel times. A trip that might take 30 minutes during off-peak hours could easily stretch to 45 minutes or more during rush hour.

Alternatively, accessing facilities in the eastern suburbs, like Mercy Health – Clermont Hospital, involves traveling along State Route 28. This route, while generally less congested than I-275, can still experience delays, especially near intersections and during school hours. Drive times to this facility average around 15-20 minutes, depending on the specific location within Milford.

The condition of the roads themselves is also a factor. While the state and county maintain the major thoroughfares, potholes and other road hazards can impact travel times and potentially exacerbate the stress of commuting for patients undergoing treatment. Therefore, a Breast Cancer Score must consider these factors to provide a realistic picture of healthcare access.

**Public Transit: A Limited but Valuable Option**

Public transportation options in Milford are limited but can provide a crucial lifeline for those without personal vehicles. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), operating as Metro, provides bus service in the Cincinnati metropolitan area. However, the frequency and reach of Metro routes in Milford are less extensive than in more urban areas.

The primary Metro route serving Milford is likely Route 71X, which travels along State Route 28, connecting Milford to downtown Cincinnati. This route offers a potential link to major medical centers, including the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. However, the travel time on this route can be lengthy, often exceeding an hour, due to multiple stops and traffic congestion.

Furthermore, the frequency of service on Route 71X is limited, especially during evenings and weekends. This can pose a significant challenge for patients needing to attend appointments or receive treatments outside of regular business hours. The availability of ADA-accessible buses is a crucial consideration, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize public transit.

For individuals who can access the Metro system, it offers an affordable alternative to driving or relying on other transportation options. However, the limitations in route coverage, frequency, and travel time must be carefully considered when assessing the overall Breast Cancer Score.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have become increasingly prevalent in recent years, offering a convenient option for transportation. In Milford, these services are readily available, providing a relatively easy way to access healthcare facilities. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a barrier for some individuals, particularly those undergoing lengthy treatment regimens.

The availability of ride-sharing can also fluctuate, especially during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. Patients should be aware of potential wait times and plan their transportation accordingly.

Specialized medical transport services, such as those offered by companies like CareRide or MedRide, provide a crucial service for patients who require assistance with mobility or who cannot safely travel independently. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles and navigating medical facilities.

Medical transport services are often more expensive than ride-sharing or public transit. The cost can be a significant burden for patients, especially those with limited financial resources. However, these services provide a vital lifeline for individuals who would otherwise be unable to access necessary healthcare.

**Moving to Milford: A Holistic Approach**

The Breast Cancer Score for Milford, Ohio, must take a holistic view of the transportation landscape. While the community offers a pleasant environment for living, the accessibility of healthcare is a critical factor.

The score should weigh the convenience of driving, the limitations of public transit, the cost and availability of ride-sharing, and the specialized services offered by medical transport providers. It should also consider the impact of traffic congestion, road conditions, and the overall affordability of transportation options.

For individuals considering moving to Milford, understanding the transportation challenges and opportunities is essential. A prospective resident should factor in their individual needs, financial resources, and access to support networks.

The goal is to ensure that all residents, regardless of their circumstances, have equitable access to the healthcare they need, particularly those facing the daunting challenges of breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Score, therefore, serves as a vital tool for informing decisions and promoting a healthier community.