46806, Fort Wayne, Indiana Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 46806, Fort Wayne, Indiana is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

75.90 percent of residents in 46806 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Orthopaedic Hospital At Parkview North with a distance of 2.65 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 46806

The journey to healthcare, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is a critical element of patient outcomes. In ZIP Code 46806, encompassing a significant portion of downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana, understanding the nuances of transportation options is paramount. This write-up provides a "Lung Cancer Score" assessment, evaluating the accessibility of lung cancer healthcare services from a transportation perspective. This is especially pertinent for those considering moving to Fort Wayne, factoring in ease of healthcare access.

The core of our analysis focuses on drive times to major healthcare facilities offering lung cancer treatment within and around 46806. Parkview Regional Medical Center, a leading institution, is accessible via several routes. Traveling east on **US-24** offers a direct and generally efficient path, though traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, can significantly impact drive times. Expect a commute of approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic flow. Alternatively, **I-69** provides a faster, though potentially longer, route, depending on your starting point within 46806. This route often bypasses local traffic bottlenecks, but construction or accidents on I-69 can cause significant delays.

Another crucial facility, Lutheran Hospital, presents a similar transportation challenge. Accessing Lutheran Hospital from 46806 often involves navigating city streets and potential congestion. The most common routes involve using **US-30** or **State Road 37**, with drive times ranging from 10-20 minutes, again subject to traffic conditions. The presence of these major roadways and the availability of multiple routes are essential for healthcare access, providing options in case of road closures or unexpected delays.

Public transportation, while available in Fort Wayne, presents a more complex scenario for patients requiring frequent medical appointments. Citilink, the city's public transit system, operates several routes that serve the 46806 area. However, direct routes to major hospitals from all points within the ZIP code are not always available. Patients might need to transfer buses, adding time and potential stress to their journey.

For example, **Route 2** and **Route 8** are key routes serving downtown Fort Wayne and connecting to various points within the city. While these routes may offer connections to hospitals, the frequency of service, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be a significant barrier. Furthermore, the ADA accessibility of Citilink buses is a crucial consideration. All Citilink buses are equipped with ramps or lifts to accommodate passengers with disabilities, ensuring compliance with federal regulations. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall journey time remain concerns.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more flexible transportation option. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for transfers and potentially reducing overall travel time. The availability of ride-share services in 46806 is generally good, but surge pricing during peak hours or periods of high demand can significantly increase costs. This financial burden can be a major factor for patients managing the expenses associated with cancer treatment.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another option. Several companies, such as MedTrans and American Medical Response, offer non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) services in the Fort Wayne area. These services typically provide transportation for patients who cannot drive themselves or use public transportation due to their medical condition. NEMT services often require advance booking and may have specific eligibility criteria, such as insurance coverage.

The Lung Cancer Score for 46806, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While major healthcare facilities are relatively accessible by car, the reliance on personal vehicles can be a challenge for patients without access to a car or those unable to drive. Public transportation, while available, presents limitations in terms of direct routes, frequency, and overall journey time. Ride-share services offer convenience but can be expensive, and medical transportation services provide specialized support but require planning and may have coverage limitations.

Considering a move to Fort Wayne and the need for easy healthcare access, potential residents of 46806 should carefully evaluate their transportation needs and preferences. Proximity to major roadways is beneficial, but reliance on personal vehicles should be weighed against the potential for traffic delays. Assessing the availability and affordability of ride-share services is also crucial.

Furthermore, individuals with mobility limitations or other specific needs should thoroughly research the accessibility of public transportation and the availability of medical transportation services. Understanding the nuances of transportation options is essential for ensuring timely and convenient access to lung cancer care, contributing significantly to the overall patient experience and the potential for positive health outcomes. The best course of action is to weigh the pros and cons of each transportation method, considering individual circumstances and healthcare needs.