43112, Carroll, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43112, Carroll, Ohio is 68 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

40.32 percent of residents in 43112 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 9.83 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Diley Ridge Medical Center with a distance of 6.21 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare Access in Carroll, Ohio (ZIP Code 43112)**

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis looms large, demanding swift and comprehensive care. For residents of Carroll, Ohio (ZIP Code 43112), accessing this vital healthcare hinges significantly on transportation options. This analysis, a "Lung Cancer Score," assesses the accessibility of lung cancer treatment facilities, considering drive times, public transit, and alternative transportation modalities. This information is crucial for current residents and those considering moving to Carroll, as it directly impacts their ability to receive timely and appropriate medical attention.

The primary determinant of healthcare access in Carroll is the time it takes to reach specialized treatment centers. Driving remains the most common mode of transportation. The closest major hospital with comprehensive oncology services is Mount Carmel Grove City, approximately 20 miles away. The journey typically involves navigating the rural roads of Fairfield County, then utilizing the I-270 Outerbelt. During off-peak hours, the drive averages around 30 minutes. However, rush hour, particularly weekday mornings and evenings, can significantly extend this time, potentially stretching the commute to 45 minutes or longer. This extended travel time can be a significant barrier for patients experiencing symptoms or undergoing treatment.

Another critical option is the OhioHealth Pickerington Medical Campus, which is about 15 miles away. The route primarily utilizes US-33 East, a well-maintained highway. Drive times to Pickerington are generally shorter, averaging around 20 minutes, even during moderate traffic. This proximity offers a potentially quicker route to care. However, the services offered at Pickerington may not be as comprehensive as those available at larger hospitals like Mount Carmel.

Columbus, the state capital, offers the greatest concentration of specialized lung cancer treatment centers. The drive to Columbus from Carroll involves using I-270, I-70, or US-33, depending on the destination. Drive times to Columbus hospitals, such as The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, can range from 35 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific location within the city. These longer commutes necessitate careful planning and consideration of potential delays, especially for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Public transportation options within Carroll and the surrounding areas are limited. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) does not provide direct service to Carroll. Residents relying on public transit must first travel to a COTA hub, usually in Columbus, to access healthcare facilities. This typically involves a combination of local transportation, such as a taxi or ride-share service, to reach a COTA bus stop. The journey then continues with a COTA bus, which can take an hour or more, depending on the destination and transfer points.

The COTA system has ADA-accessible features, including ramps, lifts, and designated seating. However, the lack of direct service to Carroll and the extended travel times make public transit a less viable option for many patients, particularly those with mobility issues or undergoing treatment that requires frequent appointments. The reliance on multiple modes of transportation and the potential for delays can significantly impact the quality of life for patients navigating the healthcare system.

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option. However, the availability of these services in Carroll may be limited, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-share services can also be a significant factor, especially for frequent appointments. While convenient, ride-sharing is not a guaranteed solution and should be considered alongside other options.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed for patients with medical needs, offer a specialized solution. Companies like MedTrans and First Transit provide non-emergency medical transportation, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements. While offering door-to-door service, medical transportation can be expensive, and availability may be limited.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Carroll, Ohio, reflects a mixed picture. While the proximity to hospitals in Pickerington offers a quicker route to care, the reliance on driving and the limited public transportation options create challenges. The longer commute times to Columbus hospitals, coupled with the potential for traffic delays, require careful planning and consideration. The lack of robust public transit and the potential limitations of ride-share services further complicate healthcare access.

For individuals considering moving to Carroll, it is essential to factor in these transportation challenges. Assessing the availability of reliable transportation, understanding potential drive times, and considering the financial implications of ride-sharing or medical transportation are crucial steps in making an informed decision. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer in Carroll must proactively plan their transportation needs, considering all available options to ensure they can access the timely and comprehensive care they require. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the importance of transportation as a critical determinant of healthcare access and underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and services in rural communities.