45850, Harrod, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45850, Harrod, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.56 percent of residents in 45850 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 10.40 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Lima Memorial Health System with a distance of 8.56 miles from the area.

**Breast Cancer Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 45850**

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as critical as breast cancer, is a multifaceted challenge. It involves not only the quality of medical care but also the accessibility of that care. This write-up analyzes the breast cancer healthcare access landscape for residents of ZIP code 45850, focusing on transportation options and their impact on timely diagnosis and treatment. We will explore the realities of navigating the healthcare system from this rural Ohio location, considering the crucial role of transportation in a patient's overall well-being.

ZIP code 45850 encompasses the village of Harrod, Ohio, a small community where the availability of specialized medical services is limited. The nearest comprehensive breast cancer care centers are located in larger cities, making transportation a significant factor in healthcare access. This assessment aims to provide a "Breast Cancer Score," a qualitative evaluation of the ease and efficiency with which residents can reach essential breast cancer services, considering various transportation modalities.

**Drive Times and Roadways: The Primary Transportation Mode**

For most residents of Harrod, the automobile is the primary mode of transportation to healthcare appointments. The drive times to the nearest breast cancer care centers are a critical component of our "Breast Cancer Score." The primary arteries connecting Harrod to these centers are the major highways and secondary roads.

To Lima, approximately 15 miles east, residents typically utilize State Route 309. The drive, usually taking around 20-30 minutes, offers relatively smooth passage, though traffic can be a factor during peak hours. Lima hosts several medical facilities, including Mercy Health-St. Rita's Medical Center, which offers comprehensive cancer care services.

Venturing further, a trip to Findlay, approximately 40 miles north, involves navigating State Route 68 and Interstate 75. This journey, typically taking 45 minutes to an hour, presents a longer commute, potentially impacting a patient's energy levels and overall treatment experience. Findlay, too, provides cancer care, including Blanchard Valley Health System.

The drive to larger cities like Dayton or Columbus, while offering a wider range of specialized services, becomes significantly more time-consuming. A trip to Dayton, roughly 80 miles south, would require utilizing Interstate 75. This drive could take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Columbus, around 90 miles east, would involve a similar travel time, using Interstate 70. These longer commutes can create significant logistical challenges, especially for patients undergoing frequent treatments.

**Public Transit: Limited Options, Limited Access**

Public transportation options in Harrod and the surrounding areas are severely limited. There is no dedicated public bus service directly serving Harrod. This lack of public transit significantly impacts individuals without personal vehicles, including the elderly, those with disabilities, and those who cannot afford a car. This limitation contributes negatively to the "Breast Cancer Score" for a substantial segment of the population.

While some regional transportation services might operate, they often require advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent appointments. Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is also a concern. The availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles and other ADA-compliant features is crucial for ensuring equitable access to healthcare. The absence of robust public transit options underscores the reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods.

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

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Lima and Findlay areas, but their presence in Harrod is less certain. Availability can vary, and the cost of these services, especially for frequent trips, can be prohibitive for many patients. The reliability of ride-sharing, particularly during inclement weather or for early morning appointments, also presents a challenge.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, offer a more specialized solution. Companies such as LogistiCare and ModivCare often contract with healthcare providers and insurance companies to provide non-emergency medical transportation. These services may offer door-to-door transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Harrod and the extent of their coverage can vary depending on insurance plans and the patient's specific needs.

**Impact on the "Breast Cancer Score": A Complex Equation**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for ZIP code 45850 is significantly influenced by the transportation challenges. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential cost and availability issues of ride-sharing and medical transport all contribute to a lower score.

The longer drive times to specialized cancer centers, particularly for those in need of frequent treatments, can lead to increased fatigue, stress, and financial burdens. The lack of readily available transportation can delay appointments, hinder timely diagnosis, and negatively impact treatment adherence.

**Moving to Harrod: Considerations for Healthcare Access**

For individuals considering moving to Harrod, the accessibility of healthcare, specifically for breast cancer care, should be a significant factor in their decision-making process. Prospective residents should research the availability of transportation options, the proximity of cancer care centers, and the potential costs associated with transportation.

Understanding the limitations of public transit, the potential reliance on personal vehicles, and the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services is crucial. Contacting local healthcare providers and insurance companies to inquire about transportation assistance programs can provide valuable insights.

**Conclusion: A Call for Improved Transportation Solutions**

The "Breast Cancer Score" for Harrod, Ohio (45850), highlights the critical link between transportation and healthcare access. The limited transportation options create significant challenges for residents seeking breast cancer care. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach.

Advocating for improved public transit, exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services, and expanding access to medical transportation programs are essential steps. Furthermore, promoting telehealth options and providing financial assistance for transportation costs can help bridge the gap. By prioritizing transportation solutions, the community can enhance the "Breast Cancer Score" and improve the lives of those affected by this devastating disease. The goal is to ensure that all residents of Harrod have timely and equitable access to the care they need, regardless of their transportation limitations.