43143, Mount Sterling, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43143, Mount Sterling, Ohio is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

42.19 percent of residents in 43143 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 15.74 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Adena Fayette Medical Center with a distance of 14.33 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 43143

Considering a move to Mount Sterling, Ohio (ZIP code 43143)? This assessment provides a "Lung Cancer Score" focused on healthcare access, specifically concerning lung cancer diagnosis and treatment. This score evaluates the ease of transportation to medical facilities offering these services, a crucial factor in successful patient outcomes. The availability of transportation options significantly impacts a patient's ability to receive timely care, manage appointments, and adhere to treatment plans. This is especially critical for individuals facing a serious illness like lung cancer.

The "Lung Cancer Score" is not a numerical value but a comprehensive analysis of transportation options. It considers drive times, public transit availability, and ride-share services. This information will help you understand the practical challenges and opportunities related to healthcare access in Mount Sterling. It’s a practical guide for anyone contemplating a move, providing a realistic picture of the landscape.

**Drive Times and Roadways:**

Mount Sterling, a charming village in Madison County, presents a unique challenge: its relative distance from major medical centers. Driving is the primary mode of transportation. The most direct route to Columbus, the nearest metropolitan hub, involves navigating several roadways.

To reach the OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, a comprehensive cancer treatment facility, the primary route utilizes US-62 East. Expect a drive of approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route is generally straightforward, but morning and evening commutes can experience congestion, especially around the I-270 interchange. This could impact the timely arrival for appointments or treatment sessions.

Another option is the Mount Sterling-Williamsport Road, connecting to US-62. This route may offer a slightly shorter distance, but it can be less direct, particularly when navigating through the smaller towns.

For the James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University, the journey is similar. The initial leg involves US-62 East. However, the final approach will likely involve navigating the I-70 East or I-270 North, depending on the specific destination within the hospital complex. Drive times are comparable to Grant Medical Center, usually between 45 minutes to an hour, subject to traffic.

Finally, for the Mount Carmel Cancer Center, the route primarily utilizes US-62 East, followed by the I-270 South. The drive time is again similar, around 45 minutes to an hour. All these routes require careful planning, considering potential delays.

**Public Transit: Limited Options:**

Public transit in Mount Sterling and the surrounding areas is limited. This significantly impacts healthcare access for those without personal vehicles or unable to drive. The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) provides bus services in Columbus. However, COTA does not directly service Mount Sterling.

Therefore, relying on public transit for healthcare appointments requires a multi-modal approach. This typically involves a combination of local transportation, potentially a taxi or ride-share to reach a COTA bus stop, and then a bus ride into Columbus. This adds significant travel time and complexity, potentially making it challenging for patients undergoing treatment.

Furthermore, the COTA system, while striving for accessibility, may not always meet the specific needs of patients with mobility limitations. ADA-compliant features are available on COTA buses, but the transfer process and the overall travel time could be a barrier for some individuals.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transportation:**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Mount Sterling. They offer a convenient, albeit potentially expensive, transportation option. The cost of a ride-share to Columbus can vary significantly depending on the time of day, demand, and distance. Patients should factor this into their budget and plan accordingly.

Medical transportation services are also available. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments. Companies like MedRide and CareRide offer non-emergency medical transportation. These services often provide door-to-door assistance, which can be invaluable for patients with mobility issues or those undergoing treatment that affects their ability to drive.

However, medical transportation services typically require advance booking and may have limited availability. It’s crucial to research these services and understand their coverage area and pricing before relocating to Mount Sterling.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Holistic View:**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Mount Sterling, 43143, reveals a mixed picture. While drive times to major cancer centers in Columbus are manageable, the reliance on personal vehicles is a significant factor. The limited public transit options and the potential expense of ride-share services create barriers to healthcare access, particularly for individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a car.

Medical transportation services offer a viable alternative, but their availability and cost must be considered. The overall score suggests that while healthcare access is possible, it requires careful planning and consideration of transportation logistics.

**Implications for Moving to Mount Sterling:**

For individuals considering a move to Mount Sterling, this assessment highlights the importance of evaluating transportation options. If you are facing or at risk of lung cancer, or if you have mobility issues, the availability of reliable transportation is critical.

Before moving, research the availability and cost of medical transportation services. Explore the potential use of ride-sharing services and factor these expenses into your budget. Consider the impact of travel time on your ability to attend appointments and manage treatment.

The "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes that while Mount Sterling offers a desirable quality of life, healthcare access requires careful planning and a proactive approach. Understanding the transportation landscape is essential for ensuring timely and effective medical care. This is especially true for individuals managing a serious illness like lung cancer, where every minute counts.