43435, Helena, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43435, Helena, Ohio is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.84 percent of residents in 43435 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.52 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Memorial Hospital with a distance of 9.26 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Helena, Ohio (ZIP Code 43435)

The specter of lung cancer casts a long shadow, demanding swift and effective healthcare access. For residents of Helena, Ohio (ZIP Code 43435), the journey to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care is a crucial factor in their well-being. This Lung Cancer Score assesses the transportation landscape, evaluating the ease with which individuals can reach vital medical services, directly impacting their ability to combat this formidable disease. Considering the unique challenges of rural settings, this analysis prioritizes practical considerations for healthcare access, especially for those potentially **moving to Helena**.

The foundation of any effective healthcare system lies in its accessibility. In Helena, this means understanding the **transportation** options available to residents. The ability to reach specialists, undergo diagnostic procedures, and receive timely treatment can significantly influence patient outcomes. This score evaluates the viability of various **transportation** modes, acknowledging the limitations of rural areas and the specific needs of lung cancer patients.

The primary mode of **transportation** for most Helena residents is the personal vehicle. The drive times to healthcare facilities are therefore paramount. The closest major medical centers are located in Bowling Green and Fremont. Traveling east on State Route 19 (SR-19) and then south on U.S. Route 6 (US-6) to Bowling Green, home to Wood County Hospital, typically takes around 25-35 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. This route is generally well-maintained, but winter weather can pose challenges.

Heading north on SR-19 and then east on US-20 to Fremont, where ProMedica Memorial Hospital is located, results in a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes. US-20 is a heavily trafficked route, especially during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. These drive times, while manageable, necessitate reliable vehicles and the ability to navigate rural roads. For individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring frequent treatments, this can become a significant burden.

Public transit options in Helena are limited. Wood County does not have a comprehensive public transit system. The nearest public transit options may be available in Bowling Green, but these are unlikely to serve the specific needs of someone in Helena. This lack of public **transportation** presents a major hurdle for individuals without personal vehicles or those unable to drive due to their condition or treatment side effects. The absence of public transit severely impacts **healthcare access**.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the area, but their reliability and cost can vary. While they offer a potential solution for those unable to drive, the availability of drivers in rural areas is often limited, particularly during off-peak hours or for appointments scheduled at unusual times. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant financial burden, especially for frequent trips to medical appointments. This is a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Helena**.

Medical **transportation** services, such as those offered by specialized companies, provide an alternative for patients requiring assistance. These services typically offer non-emergency medical **transportation**, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. However, the availability of these services in Helena and the surrounding areas needs to be investigated. Their cost can be substantial, and the booking process may require advance planning. Understanding the options for medical **transportation** is essential for individuals facing lung cancer.

The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) plays a critical role in ensuring **healthcare access** for all. Facilities like Wood County Hospital and ProMedica Memorial Hospital are required to adhere to ADA standards, providing accessible parking, entrances, and examination rooms. However, the accessibility of **transportation** to these facilities is equally important. The lack of public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services can create significant barriers for individuals with disabilities.

The Lung Cancer Score also considers the availability of support services. Access to support groups, counseling, and palliative care is vital for patients and their families. The location of these services, and the ease with which they can be reached, is a critical factor. The ability to attend support groups and access mental health services can significantly improve the quality of life for those battling lung cancer.

The overall score for **healthcare access** in Helena, Ohio (ZIP Code 43435), reflects the challenges and opportunities presented by the **transportation** landscape. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limited public transit options, and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services all contribute to a complex picture. While the drive times to major medical centers are relatively short, the lack of alternative **transportation** options creates a significant vulnerability for individuals facing lung cancer. This is a crucial consideration for anyone **moving to Helena**.

The score also considers the availability of specialized lung cancer care. Access to pulmonologists, oncologists, and radiation therapists is paramount. The distance to these specialists, and the ease with which appointments can be scheduled, are important factors. The score also assesses the availability of advanced diagnostic tools, such as CT scans and PET scans, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.

The financial burden of **transportation** is another critical factor. The cost of gasoline, vehicle maintenance, ride-sharing services, and medical **transportation** can be substantial, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment. The score considers the availability of financial assistance programs and the affordability of **transportation** options. This is a key consideration for those **moving to Helena**.

The Lung Cancer Score is not merely a numerical assessment. It is a call to action. It highlights the need for improved **transportation** options, increased access to support services, and a greater awareness of the challenges faced by individuals battling lung cancer in rural communities. The goal is to empower residents of Helena with the information they need to navigate the healthcare system effectively and receive the care they deserve.

In conclusion, while Helena offers relatively short drive times to major medical centers, the lack of comprehensive public transit and the potential limitations of ride-sharing services pose significant challenges to **healthcare access** for individuals facing lung cancer. The Lung Cancer Score for Helena, Ohio (ZIP Code 43435), underscores the need for a multifaceted approach to improving **transportation** options, ensuring that all residents have the ability to receive timely and effective care. This assessment is particularly relevant for those **moving to Helena**, emphasizing the importance of considering **healthcare access** as a key factor in their decision.