45154, Mount Orab, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45154, Mount Orab, Ohio is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

47.22 percent of residents in 45154 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.81 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Clermont Hospital with a distance of 12.55 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Mount Orab (45154)

The journey to healthcare, especially for something as critical as breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, is a complex one. This write-up provides a "Breast Cancer Score" assessment for residents of Mount Orab, Ohio (ZIP code 45154), focusing on the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services. We'll delve into the intricacies of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, to paint a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this community. This information is particularly valuable for those considering moving to Mount Orab, offering a realistic view of the resources available.

The Breast Cancer Score isn't a numerical grade, but a qualitative assessment. It reflects the ease with which residents can reach vital services: mammography screenings, diagnostic imaging, surgical oncology, radiation therapy, medical oncology, and supportive care. This accessibility is significantly influenced by transportation options, the distance to healthcare facilities, and the availability of specialized services.

**The Road to Recovery: Driving and Ride-Sharing**

For many, the personal vehicle remains the primary mode of transportation. Mount Orab's location, nestled in Brown County, necessitates understanding the road network. The primary arteries are State Route 32 (the "Eastgate Connector"), State Route 68, and State Route 125. Traveling east on State Route 32 provides access to Cincinnati, while State Route 68 heads north and south, and State Route 125 leads west.

Drive times to major healthcare hubs are crucial. Mercy Health – Clermont Hospital in Batavia, offering comprehensive breast care, is approximately a 30-45 minute drive via State Route 32, depending on traffic. UC Health West Chester Hospital, another option, is further, about a 50-60 minute drive, also primarily via State Route 32. The drive time is dependent on traffic and the starting point within the ZIP code.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in Mount Orab. However, their reliability and cost can fluctuate, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Residents should factor in potential wait times and the overall expense, which can be considerable for regular appointments. These services can be invaluable for those unable to drive or without access to a personal vehicle.

**Public Transit's Role: Limited but Present**

Public transportation options in this rural area are limited. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), which operates Metro in Cincinnati, doesn't directly serve Mount Orab. However, the Brown County Senior Citizens Center may offer limited transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, potentially connecting residents to healthcare appointments. This service is typically demand-response, requiring advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for public transit. While the Senior Center may offer accessible vehicles, the overall availability and frequency of public transit are significant limitations for those needing regular healthcare access. This lack of robust public transportation is a significant factor in the Breast Cancer Score assessment.

**Medical Transportation: Specialized Assistance**

Medical transportation services cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to and from appointments. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility devices and medical equipment. Several companies operate in the Cincinnati area and may serve Mount Orab.

Medicaid and Medicare recipients may have access to non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) benefits, which can cover the cost of transportation to and from medical appointments. These programs typically involve pre-authorization and require the use of approved transportation providers. Researching these options is essential for those who qualify.

**Healthcare Facilities and Services: A Closer Look**

The availability of breast cancer-related services within a reasonable distance is a crucial factor. Mercy Health – Clermont Hospital offers a range of services, including mammography, breast biopsies, and surgical oncology. UC Health West Chester Hospital provides comprehensive cancer care, including medical oncology, radiation therapy, and surgical oncology.

The availability of specialized breast cancer centers, with multidisciplinary teams of specialists, is a significant advantage. These centers often offer comprehensive care, including support services like counseling, physical therapy, and survivorship programs. The distance to these centers and the ease of access are essential considerations.

**Factors Influencing the Score: A Summary**

The Breast Cancer Score for Mount Orab (45154) reflects a mixed picture. The primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle, offering the most flexibility. Drive times to healthcare facilities are moderate, but traffic can impact travel times. Ride-sharing provides an alternative, but cost and availability are concerns. Public transit is limited, posing a significant challenge for those without access to a car. Medical transportation services offer specialized assistance but require research and pre-planning.

The availability of comprehensive breast cancer services at nearby hospitals, such as Mercy Health – Clermont Hospital and UC Health West Chester Hospital, is a positive factor. However, the overall accessibility is somewhat limited by the transportation challenges.

**Improving Healthcare Access: Considerations for the Future**

Several initiatives could improve healthcare access for residents of Mount Orab. Expanding public transportation options, particularly those serving healthcare facilities, would be beneficial. Partnering with ride-sharing services to offer subsidized transportation for medical appointments could also be considered.

Increasing awareness of medical transportation benefits and resources is crucial. Supporting the development of telehealth services, allowing patients to receive consultations and follow-up care remotely, could reduce the need for travel.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The journey through breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is challenging. Understanding the transportation landscape in Mount Orab is essential for navigating this journey. While the availability of healthcare services is relatively good, the limitations in transportation options necessitate careful planning. Residents should proactively research their transportation options, including personal vehicles, ride-sharing services, medical transportation, and public transit. Those considering moving to Mount Orab should carefully weigh these factors when assessing their healthcare access needs. The goal is to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the vital care they deserve.