43019, Fredericktown, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43019, Fredericktown, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

56.46 percent of residents in 43019 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Knox Community Hospital with a distance of 9.50 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 43019

The air hangs heavy with the promise of change, a breath of fresh air for those contemplating a move to Fredericktown, Ohio, ZIP code 43019. But beneath the bucolic charm, the reality of healthcare access, particularly for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, demands careful consideration. This analysis delves into the intricate web of **transportation** options available to residents of 43019, evaluating their impact on timely **healthcare access** and ultimately contributing to a “Lung Cancer Score.” This score, while not a formal medical assessment, provides a critical lens through which to view the practical challenges and opportunities for those needing specialized care.

The cornerstone of healthcare access in 43019 is the automobile. The freedom to drive, however, is not universally available. For those who can, the journey to comprehensive lung cancer treatment often begins with a drive. The closest major medical centers equipped for advanced oncology services are located in Columbus, approximately 40 to 60 miles away. This distance translates to a drive time of roughly one to one and a half hours, depending on traffic conditions.

Navigating this commute relies heavily on the efficiency of the highway system. Interstate 71 (I-71) provides the primary artery, a swift but sometimes congested route. Heading south, residents will likely utilize Ohio State Route 95 (SR-95) to connect to I-71. The journey then continues on I-71 South, leading directly into the heart of Columbus. The alternative, and potentially less congested, route involves taking SR-95 East to US-62 South, then merging onto I-71 South.

The condition of these highways, particularly during inclement weather, becomes a crucial factor. Snow, ice, and heavy rain can significantly extend drive times, potentially impacting the timely delivery of care. The availability of reliable personal vehicles, coupled with the ability to navigate these roads safely, becomes paramount. For those without personal vehicles, the options become considerably more limited, impacting **healthcare access**.

Public **transportation** options in 43019 are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those relying on alternatives to personal vehicles. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) primarily serves the Columbus metropolitan area, with limited reach into the more rural communities surrounding it. While COTA does offer some routes that extend into the outer suburbs, service to Fredericktown is virtually non-existent.

The absence of robust public **transportation** necessitates reliance on other means, primarily ride-sharing services and medical transport providers. Services like Uber and Lyft operate in the region, offering on-demand **transportation**. However, the availability and cost of these services can vary significantly, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited driver availability. For patients needing frequent appointments, the cumulative cost of ride-sharing can quickly become a financial burden, further impacting **healthcare access**.

Medical transport services offer a more specialized solution, catering specifically to the needs of patients requiring assistance with mobility or medical support during **transportation**. These services typically offer door-to-door **transportation**, often with trained personnel to assist with medical needs. While providing a crucial service, medical transport can be expensive, and availability may be limited, especially for those residing outside of major metropolitan areas. Companies like MedStar and First Response Medical Transportation operate in the Columbus area, but their service radius and pricing must be carefully considered.

The journey to comprehensive lung cancer care extends beyond the physical **transportation**. The emotional toll of the diagnosis, coupled with the stress of navigating the healthcare system, can be overwhelming. The lack of readily available **transportation** options can exacerbate these challenges, adding an extra layer of complexity to an already difficult situation. The ability to access timely appointments, diagnostic tests, and treatments is critical for positive outcomes.

For those considering **moving to Fredericktown**, understanding the realities of **healthcare access** is paramount. The decision to relocate should involve a thorough assessment of individual needs and circumstances. Factors to consider include the availability of a personal vehicle, the financial capacity to utilize ride-sharing or medical transport services, and the support network available to assist with **transportation** and care coordination.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 43019 reflects the challenges posed by the limited **transportation** options. The reliance on personal vehicles, coupled with the absence of robust public **transportation**, creates a potential barrier to timely **healthcare access**. The availability of ride-sharing and medical transport services provides alternative solutions, but the cost and availability of these services must be carefully considered.

The score is influenced by several factors: the distance to specialized cancer centers, the reliability of the highway system, the availability and cost of ride-sharing and medical transport services, and the presence of any community support programs. The more limited the **transportation** options, the higher the potential for delays in accessing care, ultimately impacting the score.

This analysis serves as a starting point for a more in-depth evaluation. Prospective residents should contact local healthcare providers, explore available community resources, and assess their individual needs to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey in 43019. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all residents have equitable access to the care they need, regardless of their **transportation** limitations. This is especially crucial for individuals facing the challenges of a lung cancer diagnosis, where time and access to specialized care can be life-altering.