45821, Cecil, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45821, Cecil, Ohio is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

74.64 percent of residents in 45821 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.55 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ridgeview Hospital with a distance of 24.29 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Cecil, Ohio (ZIP Code 45821)

Imagine the stark reality: a breast cancer diagnosis. Now, picture the added burden of navigating transportation to treatment. For residents of Cecil, Ohio (ZIP Code 45821), the journey to healthcare, particularly for specialized services like oncology, presents a unique set of challenges. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the complexities of healthcare access, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely and effective care. We'll explore the terrain, providing a practical guide for those facing this difficult situation, or for those *moving to Cecil* and considering their healthcare needs.

The foundation of this analysis rests on the understanding that **transportation** is inextricably linked to **healthcare access**. Delays in accessing care can significantly impact treatment outcomes, especially in the fight against breast cancer. This score considers drive times, public transit, ride-sharing services, and medical transport options, offering a comprehensive view of the landscape.

**The Road Ahead: Drive Times and Highway Navigation**

Cecil, a small village in Paulding County, is surrounded by rural landscapes. The primary arteries for vehicular travel are State Route 49 and State Route 613. Driving to major medical facilities, such as hospitals and specialized cancer centers, often necessitates journeys to larger towns and cities.

The nearest major medical center is likely in Defiance, Ohio, approximately a 30-45 minute drive via State Route 49. This route, while generally well-maintained, can experience delays during inclement weather or peak traffic hours. The quality of the roads is generally good, but the rural nature of the area means limited shoulders and potential for wildlife encounters, factors that can affect travel time and safety, particularly for those undergoing treatment and experiencing side effects.

Further afield, the journey to Fort Wayne, Indiana, a regional hub for advanced medical care, requires a drive of roughly an hour and fifteen minutes, primarily utilizing US-24 East. This route offers more extensive highway infrastructure, but traffic congestion, especially during rush hour or on weekends, can add significant time to the trip. This longer travel time can be a considerable strain, especially for frequent appointments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option**

Public transit options in and around Cecil are extremely limited. Paulding County does not have a comprehensive public transportation system. This lack of readily available public transit presents a significant barrier for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their illness or treatment side effects. This reality underscores the reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport services for those seeking healthcare.

The absence of public transportation also impacts those with disabilities. There are no readily available options for individuals requiring ADA-compliant transportation. This absence of accessibility further compounds the challenges faced by breast cancer patients, many of whom may experience mobility issues or require assistance.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Bridging the Gap**

While public transit is scarce, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft may offer some respite. However, the availability of these services in rural areas like Cecil can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Surge pricing, a common practice during periods of high demand, can also make these services financially prohibitive for some patients.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies or non-profit organizations, provide a more specialized solution. These services often cater specifically to patients requiring transportation to medical appointments, including those undergoing cancer treatment. These services can offer door-to-door assistance, including wheelchair accessibility and assistance with medical equipment. However, availability and cost can vary, and advance booking is often required.

**Medical Transport Brands**

While specific medical transport brands operating in this area are difficult to pinpoint without specific local knowledge, it is important to research and explore options. Local hospitals, cancer centers, and social service agencies may have partnerships with transportation providers. Some national brands, such as LogistiCare or ModivCare, may also offer services in the area.

**The Breast Cancer Score: Assessing the Landscape**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Cecil, Ohio (45821) reflects the challenges and limitations of healthcare access related to transportation. The score considers the following factors:

* **Drive Times:** Longer drive times to medical facilities, especially for specialized care, negatively impact the score.
* **Public Transit:** The absence of reliable public transit significantly reduces the score.
* **Ride-Sharing Availability:** Inconsistent availability and potential cost barriers for ride-sharing services lower the score.
* **Medical Transport Options:** The availability and accessibility of medical transport services positively influence the score, but these services often come with a cost.
* **Accessibility:** The lack of ADA-compliant transportation options further diminishes the score.

Based on these factors, the "Breast Cancer Score" for Cecil, Ohio (45821) would likely be considered moderate to low. This score highlights the need for careful planning and resourcefulness for individuals facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

**Recommendations and Considerations**

For residents of Cecil, Ohio (45821), and those *moving to Cecil*, proactive planning is essential. Establishing a support network of family and friends to assist with transportation is crucial. Researching and pre-arranging medical transport services is highly recommended. Exploring options for telehealth appointments, when appropriate, can help reduce the need for frequent travel.

The local community can also play a vital role. Supporting initiatives to improve transportation options, advocating for increased access to medical resources, and promoting awareness of the challenges faced by breast cancer patients are all important steps.

Ultimately, understanding the transportation landscape is a critical step in ensuring equitable **healthcare access** for all residents of Cecil, Ohio. This "Breast Cancer Score" serves as a starting point for a more informed and compassionate approach to healthcare delivery in this rural community.