45872, North Baltimore, Ohio Breast Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 45872, North Baltimore, Ohio is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.28 percent of residents in 45872 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 20.42 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Ridgeview Hospital with a distance of 46.50 miles from the area.

Here's a write-up assessing healthcare access for breast cancer treatment in North Baltimore, Ohio (ZIP Code 45872), focusing on transportation options.

**Breast Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in North Baltimore (45872)**

The diagnosis of breast cancer casts a long shadow, a journey demanding not only expert medical care but also the ability to *transport* oneself reliably and efficiently to appointments. For residents of North Baltimore, Ohio, located in ZIP Code 45872, this critical aspect of healthcare access requires careful consideration. This analysis evaluates the available *transportation* options, assigning a "Breast Cancer Score" that reflects the ease and challenges of accessing necessary breast cancer treatment within the region.

The score considers drive times, public *transportation* availability, ride-sharing services, and medical *transport* options. The goal is to provide a clear picture for current residents and those *moving to North Baltimore*, ensuring informed decisions about healthcare accessibility.

**Drive Time: The Asphalt Arteries**

The primary mode of *transportation* for most residents of 45872 is the personal vehicle. Therefore, drive times to major healthcare facilities offering breast cancer services are paramount. The closest comprehensive cancer care is likely to be found in Findlay, Ohio, approximately 15 miles away. The most direct route involves taking Interstate 75 (I-75) north. The drive, under normal traffic conditions, should take around 20 to 25 minutes. This route offers a relatively smooth and well-maintained roadway, making it a reasonably accessible option for regular appointments.

Another potential destination is Bowling Green, Ohio, which may offer some specialized services. This journey would involve traveling north on I-75 to the US-68 exit. The drive time is roughly 35 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location of the healthcare provider within Bowling Green.

For those seeking care further afield, perhaps at larger medical centers in Toledo, Ohio, the commute becomes significantly longer. The drive to Toledo via I-75 can take up to an hour or more, especially during peak traffic hours. This extended travel time can be particularly challenging for individuals undergoing treatment, potentially increasing fatigue and impacting overall well-being.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public *transportation* options in 45872 are severely limited. Wood County, which encompasses Bowling Green, does offer some public *transportation* services, but these are primarily designed for local travel and may not directly connect with North Baltimore. The availability of public transit to Findlay is even more restricted.

The absence of a robust public *transportation* system presents a significant barrier to *healthcare access* for individuals who do not have access to a personal vehicle or who are unable to drive. This limitation is especially concerning for elderly residents, those with disabilities, or individuals facing financial constraints.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Navigating the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their reliability and affordability can vary. Availability may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in rural areas. The cost of frequent ride-sharing trips to and from medical appointments can quickly become a financial burden, further impacting *healthcare access*.

Medical *transport* services, such as those offered by private ambulance companies or specialized medical *transport* providers, represent another option. These services are designed to provide *transportation* for individuals with medical needs, including those who are unable to drive. However, these services are often expensive and may not be covered by all insurance plans.

**Medical Transport Brands**

While specific medical *transport* brands serving the area are not explicitly listed, the search for options will include local ambulance services and private *transport* companies. These services often require advance booking and may involve coordination with the patient's healthcare provider.

**ADA Considerations**

For individuals with disabilities, the availability of ADA-compliant *transportation* is crucial. Public *transportation* services, when available, are required to meet ADA standards, ensuring accessibility for individuals using wheelchairs or other mobility devices. Ride-sharing services are also expected to provide accessible vehicles upon request, although availability may be limited. Medical *transport* services typically offer ADA-compliant vehicles, but it is essential to confirm this when booking.

**Breast Cancer Score and Recommendations**

Based on the assessment of *transportation* options, the Breast Cancer Score for 45872 reflects a mixed picture. The proximity to Findlay offers relatively convenient access to cancer care via personal vehicle. However, the limited public *transportation* options, the potential unreliability and cost of ride-sharing services, and the expense of medical *transport* create significant challenges for some residents.

**Recommendations:**

* **Prioritize reliable personal *transportation*:** Individuals with breast cancer should ensure they have access to a reliable vehicle or a designated driver.
* **Explore financial assistance:** Investigate financial assistance programs to help cover the cost of *transportation*, including gas, ride-sharing, or medical *transport* services.
* **Coordinate with healthcare providers:** Work closely with healthcare providers to schedule appointments efficiently, minimizing the frequency of *transportation* needs.
* **Advocate for improved *transportation* options:** Support initiatives aimed at expanding public *transportation* services or ride-sharing availability in the region.
* **Consider proximity to healthcare:** When *moving to North Baltimore*, factor in the distance to healthcare facilities and the availability of *transportation* options.

**Conclusion:**

The Breast Cancer Score for 45872 highlights the critical link between *transportation* and *healthcare access*. While the presence of major roadways like I-75 provides a pathway to care, the limitations in public transit and the potential costs of alternative *transportation* methods create a complex landscape. By understanding these challenges and proactively addressing them, residents of North Baltimore can work towards ensuring that all individuals have the *transportation* support they need to navigate the journey of breast cancer treatment. This knowledge is paramount for those *moving to North Baltimore*, providing a realistic view of the *healthcare access* landscape.