45162, Pleasant Plain, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45162, Pleasant Plain, Ohio is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.29 percent of residents in 45162 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Hospitalist Medicine Physicians Of Ohio, Professional Corporation with a distance of 24.61 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45162**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing the complexities of a breast cancer diagnosis, can be a daunting one. It involves not only the emotional and physical toll of treatment but also the practical considerations of transportation. This analysis focuses on the accessibility of breast cancer-related healthcare services for residents of ZIP code 45162, Pleasant Plain, Ohio, evaluating the available transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. It's a critical aspect to consider when moving to Pleasant Plain, ensuring a smooth transition into a community that supports your health needs.

Pleasant Plain, nestled in Warren County, offers a blend of rural charm and suburban convenience. However, its location can present challenges in accessing specialized medical care. The "Breast Cancer Score" considers the time and ease of travel to facilities offering breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This involves evaluating driving distances, public transit availability, ride-sharing options, and specialized medical transportation services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its influence on healthcare access.

**Driving Distances and Drive Times**

For residents of 45162, the primary mode of transportation to healthcare facilities is likely personal vehicles. The major roadways influencing healthcare access include State Route 123, State Route 73, and Interstate 71. These highways provide the most direct routes to hospitals and specialized cancer centers.

The closest hospitals offering comprehensive cancer care are in the neighboring cities of Middletown and Cincinnati. Driving to Atrium Medical Center in Middletown, via State Route 123 and then Interstate 71, typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This hospital offers a range of services, including diagnostic imaging, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Reaching the larger medical centers in Cincinnati, such as the University of Cincinnati Medical Center or The Christ Hospital, requires a longer commute. The drive, primarily on Interstate 71, can take between 45 minutes to an hour or more, especially during peak traffic hours. These facilities offer a wider array of specialized services, including advanced surgical procedures and clinical trials.

**Public Transit Options**

Public transportation options in the Pleasant Plain area are limited. The Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority (SORTA), which operates Metro in Cincinnati, does not have extensive routes serving the immediate vicinity of 45162. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for individuals who do not have personal vehicles or are unable to drive.

While there may be some local bus services, they are unlikely to provide direct routes to major hospitals and cancer centers. The lack of frequent service and the potential for multiple transfers can significantly increase travel time and make it difficult for patients undergoing treatment. Moreover, the availability of ADA-accessible features on any existing routes is crucial for individuals with mobility limitations. Information regarding accessible routes and features should be readily available.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transportation**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Pleasant Plain area, offering an alternative transportation option. However, the cost of ride-sharing can be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. The availability of drivers, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can also be a concern.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, offer another avenue. Companies like CareRide and MedRide provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services often require advance booking and may have specific geographic limitations. The cost of these services can vary depending on the distance and the level of assistance required.

**Impact on Healthcare Access**

The transportation challenges in 45162 have a direct impact on healthcare access for breast cancer patients. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the cost of ride-sharing and medical transportation can create barriers to timely and consistent care.

These barriers can affect appointment adherence, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Frequent travel, especially for chemotherapy or radiation therapy, can also add to the physical and emotional burden of the disease. The availability of convenient and affordable transportation is, therefore, a crucial factor in ensuring equitable access to breast cancer care.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in 45162 requires a multi-faceted approach. Increasing public transportation options, potentially through partnerships with regional transit authorities, could improve accessibility. This could involve extending existing bus routes or establishing new routes specifically designed to serve healthcare facilities.

Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to provide subsidized transportation for patients could also be beneficial. This could help reduce the financial burden of travel and ensure that patients can attend their appointments.

Raising awareness of medical transportation services and providing financial assistance to eligible patients can also improve healthcare access. This includes educating residents about the available options and providing support to navigate the complexities of booking and paying for these services.

**Conclusion**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for 45162 highlights the critical role of transportation in healthcare access. While the area offers a degree of convenience, the limited transportation options present challenges for breast cancer patients. Addressing these challenges through improved public transit, subsidized ride-sharing, and increased awareness of medical transportation services is essential to ensuring equitable access to care for all residents of Pleasant Plain. This assessment is crucial for individuals considering moving to Pleasant Plain, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and effective breast cancer care. The community must prioritize these improvements to support the health and well-being of its residents.