45808, Beaverdam, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45808, Beaverdam, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.57 percent of residents in 45808 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 8.14 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Bluffton Hospital with a distance of 5.38 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 45808

The journey to healthcare, especially for something as critical as breast cancer screening and treatment, can be fraught with challenges. This analysis provides a 'Breast Cancer Score' for residents of ZIP code 45808, Beaverdam, Ohio, evaluating the accessibility of crucial healthcare services. We'll delve into transportation options, healthcare access, and considerations for those moving to Beaverdam, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the resources available.

Beaverdam, a small village nestled in Allen County, presents unique transportation dynamics. The availability of reliable transportation is paramount for timely diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. This analysis considers drive times, public transit, ride-share options, and medical transport services, painting a picture of healthcare access within and beyond the 45808 ZIP code.

**Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

For many residents, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Understanding drive times to healthcare facilities is crucial. The closest major hospital with comprehensive cancer services is Mercy Health-St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima, approximately 15 miles away.

Traveling from Beaverdam to St. Rita's often involves navigating the rural roads and highways. The most direct route typically utilizes Ohio Route 309 East, a relatively well-maintained two-lane highway. Expect a drive time of around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Alternative routes might involve using Ohio Route 116, connecting to Ohio Route 309, or utilizing local roads like Napoleon Road and Main Street. These routes might offer slightly different perspectives but could also add to the travel time, particularly during peak hours.

Other healthcare providers specializing in breast cancer screening and treatment might be located further afield. For example, The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute in Columbus is about a 90-minute drive, primarily via Interstate 75 South.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transportation in Beaverdam and the surrounding areas is limited. The Allen County Regional Transit Authority (ACRTA) provides some bus service within the county, but its routes and schedules may not directly serve Beaverdam or offer frequent service to medical facilities.

The ACRTA operates fixed-route buses, but the frequency and coverage are not designed for convenient access to healthcare appointments. For individuals reliant on public transit, careful planning and potentially lengthy travel times are necessary.

ADA accessibility is a crucial factor. ACRTA buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible routes and the need to coordinate schedules can still present challenges.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport**

Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Lima area, offering an alternative to personal vehicles. However, the availability of drivers in Beaverdam might be less consistent, and the cost of rides could be a significant factor.

Medical transport services cater specifically to patients needing assistance getting to appointments. Several companies operate in the region, including those specializing in non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

Companies like First Call Medical Transportation and Liberty Medical Transportation offer services in the area. These options are particularly valuable for individuals who cannot drive or lack access to other transportation. Booking in advance is usually necessary.

**Healthcare Access and the Breast Cancer Score**

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 45808 reflects the combined impact of transportation options on healthcare access. While St. Rita's Medical Center offers comprehensive services, the reliance on personal vehicles or potentially limited public transit raises concerns.

The availability of ride-share services and medical transport provides alternatives, but their cost and reliability must be considered. For individuals moving to Beaverdam, understanding these factors is crucial when evaluating healthcare access.

The score considers factors like drive times, the frequency and accessibility of public transit, the availability and cost of ride-share services, and the presence of medical transport options. It also takes into account the distance to specialized cancer centers and the overall healthcare infrastructure in the region.

**Considerations for Moving to Beaverdam**

For those contemplating a move to Beaverdam, a thorough assessment of healthcare access is essential. Researching the availability of primary care physicians, specialists, and cancer screening services is crucial.

Understanding the transportation options available, including drive times, public transit routes, and the availability of ride-share and medical transport services, is vital. This information is particularly relevant for individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at higher risk.

Planning for potential transportation challenges and exploring alternative solutions is also recommended. This might involve establishing relationships with local medical transport providers or identifying friends and family members who can provide transportation assistance.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Journey**

The 'Breast Cancer Score' for 45808 highlights the complexities of healthcare access in a rural setting. While St. Rita's Medical Center provides essential services, transportation remains a significant factor.

By understanding the drive times, the limitations of public transit, the availability of ride-share and medical transport, and the overall healthcare infrastructure, residents of Beaverdam can navigate the healthcare system effectively.

For those considering a move to the area, careful planning and a proactive approach to healthcare access are essential. The journey to healthcare, especially in the context of breast cancer, demands careful consideration of all available options.