45864, Miller City, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45864, Miller City, Ohio is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

63.64 percent of residents in 45864 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy Health - Defiance Hospital with a distance of 16.42 miles from the area.

## Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Miller City (ZIP Code 45864)

For those considering a move to Miller City, Ohio (ZIP code 45864), or already residing within its embrace, understanding the accessibility of healthcare, particularly for breast cancer screening and treatment, is paramount. This "Breast Cancer Score" aims to illuminate the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access, providing a crucial perspective for informed decision-making. The score reflects the ease of reaching essential medical services, considering various transportation options and their associated challenges.

Miller City, a small village in Putnam County, presents unique considerations when evaluating healthcare access. The rural nature of the area necessitates a thorough examination of transportation options, from personal vehicles to public transit, ride-sharing, and medical transport services. The ability to navigate these options efficiently is a significant factor in the overall quality of life, particularly for individuals facing the complexities of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

The primary mode of transportation in Miller City and the surrounding areas is the personal vehicle. Therefore, understanding drive times to relevant healthcare facilities is crucial. The closest major medical centers offering comprehensive breast cancer services are located in larger cities like Lima and Findlay.

To reach Lima, a drive of approximately 30-40 minutes is typical, primarily via US-224 East and Interstate 75 North. This route is generally well-maintained, but traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can extend travel times. The journey involves navigating the rural landscape, making weather conditions a significant factor, particularly during winter months.

Findlay, another viable option, is roughly a 45-60 minute drive, primarily via US-224 East and Interstate 75 North. This route is similar to the Lima route, also subject to traffic and weather-related delays. The longer distance to Findlay necessitates a careful consideration of fuel costs and the potential for increased travel time.

Smaller clinics and primary care physicians within Putnam County offer some screening services and initial consultations. However, for specialized care, such as mammograms, biopsies, and cancer treatment, travel to Lima or Findlay is often unavoidable. This underscores the importance of reliable transportation for residents of Miller City.

**Public Transit: A Limited Option:**

Public transportation options in Putnam County are limited. There is no dedicated public bus system that directly serves Miller City with regular routes. This lack of readily available public transit significantly impacts healthcare access for individuals without personal vehicles, particularly those with mobility limitations or financial constraints.

The absence of a robust public transit system poses a considerable challenge for those needing to travel for regular appointments, chemotherapy sessions, or radiation therapy. The reliance on alternative transportation methods further complicates the process, highlighting the critical need for exploring all available options.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Lima and Findlay areas. However, their availability in Miller City itself can be sporadic, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore risky, and requires advance planning and booking.

Medical transport services, such as those offered by private companies, provide a more specialized option for individuals with mobility challenges or those requiring assistance during travel. These services often offer door-to-door transportation, including assistance with getting in and out of vehicles. However, medical transport services can be costly, and their availability may be limited depending on the specific needs and insurance coverage of the individual.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

Several medical transport brands serve the Putnam County area, including:

* **Putnam County Council on Aging:** This organization provides transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, often at a reduced cost.
* **Private Medical Transport Companies:** Several private companies offer non-emergency medical transportation, but costs can vary significantly.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** While primarily for emergencies, some local ambulance services may offer non-emergency transportation services.

It is crucial to research the specific services offered by each provider, including their coverage area, pricing, and accessibility features.

**Accessibility and ADA Considerations:**

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of accessible transportation is a critical factor. Public transit, if available, should adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards, ensuring that buses are equipped with ramps or lifts and that routes are accessible to individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

Ride-sharing services should also provide accessible vehicle options, although availability may be limited. Medical transport services often specialize in providing accessible transportation, with vehicles equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

**The Impact on Healthcare Access:**

The limited transportation options in Miller City significantly impact healthcare access, particularly for individuals facing breast cancer. The reliance on personal vehicles, the sporadic availability of ride-sharing, and the potential costs associated with medical transport services create barriers to timely diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

The distance to major medical centers, coupled with the potential for travel delays, can add to the stress and anxiety associated with a cancer diagnosis. The financial burden of transportation costs can also be a significant concern, particularly for those with limited incomes or those who are unable to work due to their illness.

**Moving to Miller City: Considerations:**

For those considering moving to Miller City, the Breast Cancer Score highlights the importance of carefully evaluating transportation options and their impact on healthcare access. Individuals with a history of breast cancer or those at high risk should proactively research available medical services, including the distance to treatment centers, the availability of transportation, and the associated costs.

It is also essential to consider the availability of support services, such as patient navigators and support groups, that can help individuals navigate the healthcare system and access the resources they need. Building a strong support network within the community is also crucial, as friends, family, and neighbors can provide valuable assistance with transportation and other needs.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for Miller City (ZIP code 45864) reveals a transportation landscape that presents both opportunities and challenges for healthcare access. While the rural setting offers a peaceful environment, the limited public transit options and the distance to major medical centers necessitate careful planning and reliance on personal vehicles, ride-sharing, or medical transport services. For individuals facing breast cancer, understanding these factors is crucial for ensuring timely access to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Making an informed decision about healthcare access is an integral component of moving to Miller City.