43407, Burgoon, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43407, Burgoon, Ohio is 25 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

79.17 percent of residents in 43407 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 13.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 7.29 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Burgoon, Ohio (ZIP Code 43407)

The shadow of a lung cancer diagnosis can fall heavily, and the ability to access timely and effective healthcare is paramount. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape surrounding Burgoon, Ohio (ZIP Code 43407), evaluating its impact on healthcare access for individuals facing this challenging diagnosis. We'll explore the practicalities of getting to medical appointments, considering factors crucial for those with limited mobility or needing specialized care. This information is vital for residents and those considering moving to Burgoon, offering a clearer picture of the challenges and opportunities in navigating the healthcare system.

Burgoon, a small community in Sandusky County, Ohio, presents unique transportation considerations. The area is primarily rural, with limited public transportation options. This reliance on personal vehicles significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for individuals whose mobility is compromised by illness or treatment. The availability of alternative transportation methods, like ride-sharing services and medical transport, becomes critical in mitigating these challenges.

The primary roadways connecting Burgoon to healthcare facilities are US-20 and OH-19. Driving to the nearest hospitals and cancer centers requires careful planning. The drive to Firelands Regional Medical Center in Sandusky, a major regional healthcare provider, involves traveling approximately 25 miles, predominantly via US-20. This journey, in ideal conditions, can take around 30-40 minutes. However, traffic, particularly during peak hours or inclement weather, can significantly extend this travel time.

Another crucial destination is the University of Toledo Medical Center, located approximately 45 miles away, accessible via OH-19 and US-23. This drive can take around an hour, depending on traffic flow. The longer distance to Toledo necessitates careful consideration of appointment scheduling, factoring in potential delays and the patient's physical condition.

Public transportation options in the area are limited. The Sandusky County Public Transportation (SCPT) offers some services, but their routes and schedules may not directly serve Burgoon or offer frequent connections to healthcare facilities. Individuals with lung cancer often require frequent appointments for diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care, making the availability of reliable public transit a significant concern. The SCPT does provide ADA-accessible vehicles, which is essential for patients with mobility limitations. However, the need to pre-arrange rides and the potential for longer travel times can be significant drawbacks.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, offering a potential alternative to driving. However, their availability can be inconsistent, particularly in rural areas. The cost of these services can also accumulate, adding a financial burden to the already significant costs associated with cancer treatment. Moreover, patients may require assistance getting in and out of vehicles, which can pose challenges for ride-sharing drivers.

Medical transport services are specifically designed to cater to patients with medical needs. Several companies operate in the region, including ProMedica Transportation and LifeCare Ambulance. These services often provide specialized vehicles equipped to accommodate patients with mobility issues and offer trained personnel to assist with transfers and medical needs during transport. While these services offer a higher level of care and support, they can be expensive and may require pre-authorization from insurance providers.

For individuals considering moving to Burgoon, the transportation challenges associated with healthcare access should be carefully weighed. Proximity to healthcare facilities, the availability of reliable transportation options, and the financial implications of these choices are critical factors. The need for frequent medical appointments, potential side effects of treatment, and the physical limitations imposed by the disease underscore the importance of a well-defined transportation plan.

The "Lung Cancer Score" for Burgoon, Ohio, reflects a moderate level of healthcare access challenges. While the community offers a degree of accessibility through personal vehicles and ride-sharing services, the limited public transportation options and the distance to specialized care facilities create significant hurdles. The cost and availability of medical transport services are also key considerations.

Improving healthcare access in Burgoon requires a multi-faceted approach. Expanding public transportation routes to include direct connections to healthcare facilities, increasing the availability of ride-sharing services, and advocating for affordable medical transport options are all crucial steps. Furthermore, community initiatives that provide volunteer driver programs or support for patients' transportation needs can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals battling lung cancer.

In conclusion, while Burgoon offers a peaceful environment, the transportation landscape presents challenges for those navigating the complexities of lung cancer care. Careful planning, consideration of alternative transportation methods, and a proactive approach to healthcare access are essential for residents and those contemplating moving to this community. The "Lung Cancer Score" serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that all members of the community have equal access to the vital healthcare services they need. The journey to recovery is difficult enough; the burden of transportation should not compound the challenge.