45820, Cairo, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45820, Cairo, Ohio is 76 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.07 percent of residents in 45820 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 7.92 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health-St Rita's Medical Center with a distance of 6.65 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cairo, Ohio (ZIP Code 45820)

The journey to healthcare, particularly for something as serious as breast cancer, is a complex equation. It's not just about the quality of medical professionals, but also about the accessibility of those professionals. This analysis, the "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP Code 45820 (Cairo, Ohio), delves into the transportation landscape that dictates healthcare access for residents. We'll explore the practical realities of getting to appointments, considering drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing availability, and medical transport services. This is crucial information for anyone living in or considering moving to Cairo, a small town where healthcare access is a significant factor in quality of life.

The first hurdle in assessing healthcare access is understanding the geography. Cairo, nestled in Allen County, is a rural community. The nearest comprehensive cancer care facilities are located in larger cities, primarily Lima and Findlay. This immediately introduces the element of transportation. For residents of 45820, the primary mode of transportation will be personal vehicles. The drive times to these crucial medical centers are a critical component of our score.

To reach Lima, residents will likely utilize State Route 309, a major east-west thoroughfare. Depending on traffic and the specific location within Cairo, the drive to Lima's hospitals, like Mercy Health-St. Rita's Medical Center, could take between 20 to 30 minutes. This is a manageable commute for routine appointments, but can become challenging for frequent visits like chemotherapy or radiation treatments. The time commitment compounds the stress of a cancer diagnosis.

Alternatively, residents might choose to seek care in Findlay. This route involves navigating State Route 12 and U.S. Route 224. The drive to Findlay, home to Blanchard Valley Health System, is generally longer, ranging from 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the exact destination within the city. The additional travel time presents a greater burden, impacting the patient’s energy levels and overall well-being.

Public transportation options in Cairo and the surrounding areas are limited. The Allen County Regional Transit Authority (ACRTA) provides some services, but its routes are primarily focused on Lima and may not directly serve Cairo with regular schedules. Furthermore, the availability of ADA-accessible buses is crucial for patients with mobility limitations, and the frequency of service can be a major constraint. Researching the specific routes and schedules, including route numbers and ADA features, is essential for anyone relying on public transit. This lack of readily available public transit contributes to a lower Breast Cancer Score for residents of 45820.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Lima and Findlay areas, but their presence in Cairo itself is less certain. The availability of these services can fluctuate depending on driver availability and demand. Relying on ride-sharing can be expensive, especially for frequent appointments. The cost can be a significant barrier to healthcare access, particularly for those on fixed incomes or facing financial hardship due to their illness.

Medical transportation services offer a specialized solution for patients who cannot drive themselves or lack other transportation options. Companies like CareRide or local ambulance services may provide non-emergency medical transport. These services are generally more expensive than ride-sharing and require pre-booking, which can be difficult to arrange on short notice. The availability and cost of these services are crucial considerations, particularly for patients who require assistance with mobility or have other medical needs.

The Breast Cancer Score is also influenced by the availability of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and other resources is vital for patients and their families. These services are often located in the larger cities, requiring additional travel. The distance to these support networks can exacerbate the sense of isolation and increase the burden on patients.

The overall picture for healthcare access in Cairo, Ohio (45820) presents a mixed bag. While the drive times to Lima and Findlay are relatively manageable, the lack of robust public transportation and the potential limitations of ride-sharing and medical transport services raise concerns. The cost and availability of transportation are key factors. The Breast Cancer Score for this area would be negatively impacted by these factors.

For someone considering moving to Cairo, this transportation analysis should be a significant factor. The convenience of healthcare access can greatly influence the quality of life, especially when dealing with a serious illness. The need to rely on personal vehicles or potentially expensive transportation options creates a significant challenge.

The Breast Cancer Score for 45820 reflects the reality of rural healthcare access. While the medical expertise in nearby cities is available, the journey to reach it is a significant consideration. This score underscores the importance of planning and preparation for anyone facing a breast cancer diagnosis in Cairo, Ohio. The availability of reliable transportation is not just a logistical issue; it's a critical component of the patient's overall well-being and their ability to navigate the complexities of treatment and recovery.