43437, Jerry City, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43437, Jerry City, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

65.13 percent of residents in 43437 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 17.64 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 8.85 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Jerry City, OH (ZIP Code 43437)

The air hangs heavy with the anxieties of health, especially when considering the specter of lung cancer. For residents of Jerry City, Ohio (ZIP Code 43437), the journey to quality healthcare, a crucial factor in early detection and treatment, is intrinsically linked to the vagaries of transportation. This Lung Cancer Score delves into the specifics of **transportation** options, quantifying the ease or difficulty of **healthcare access** for those living in this small, rural community. Considering a **move to Jerry City**? This assessment provides vital context.

The primary healthcare facility serving the area is Wood County Hospital in Bowling Green, approximately 10 miles from Jerry City. This relatively short distance belies the complexities of reaching it, particularly for individuals facing mobility challenges or without reliable personal vehicles. The primary mode of **transportation** for most residents is the private automobile.

Driving to Wood County Hospital from Jerry City typically involves navigating a combination of local roads and state highways. The most direct route utilizes OH-235 North. This stretch of road, while generally well-maintained, can experience congestion during peak hours, potentially adding to travel time and exacerbating the stress of a medical appointment. Alternatively, one could utilize Poe Road and then merge onto OH-235, a slightly longer but potentially less congested route. Drive times, under ideal conditions, average around 15-20 minutes. However, adverse weather, such as snow or heavy rain, common in Northwest Ohio, can significantly increase these times, potentially hindering timely **healthcare access**.

Public **transportation** options are limited in Jerry City. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) offers a demand-response service, primarily for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while providing a crucial lifeline, requires advance booking and may not always align perfectly with appointment schedules. ADA accessibility is a key feature of WCCOA vehicles, ensuring that individuals with mobility impairments can travel comfortably and safely. The service area extends to Bowling Green and other surrounding communities, making it a viable option for reaching the hospital. However, the lack of a fixed-route bus system presents a significant barrier for those without access to a car or the ability to utilize the demand-response service.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Bowling Green area. Their presence offers a degree of flexibility, particularly for those who may not be able to drive themselves or utilize public **transportation**. However, the availability of these services in Jerry City itself can be inconsistent, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent appointments or those with limited financial resources. This cost can compound the existing financial burden of **healthcare access**, making it a less viable option for some.

Medical **transportation** services, specifically designed for patients needing assistance, are another consideration. These services often provide door-to-door transportation, including assistance with mobility and medical equipment. Several regional providers operate in the area, but their availability and cost can vary. This option is especially important for patients with advanced lung cancer who may require frequent trips for treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

The Lung Cancer Score for Jerry City, therefore, reflects a mixed bag. While the proximity to Wood County Hospital is a positive factor, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limitations of public **transportation** create potential challenges. The availability of ride-sharing and medical **transportation** services offers some mitigation, but their cost and reliability are significant considerations.

For individuals considering a **move to Jerry City**, this analysis underscores the importance of assessing their **transportation** needs and capabilities. Those who rely on public **transportation** or have mobility limitations may face significant difficulties in accessing timely **healthcare access**. The availability of family support or the ability to afford ride-sharing or medical **transportation** services can significantly impact the quality of life and the ability to effectively manage a lung cancer diagnosis.

The presence of OH-235 and Poe Road facilitates relatively easy access to healthcare, but the reliance on these roads also introduces vulnerabilities to weather and traffic. The lack of a robust public **transportation** system and the variable availability of ride-sharing services present significant hurdles.

Furthermore, the emotional toll of a lung cancer diagnosis can be compounded by the stress of navigating complex **transportation** challenges. The ability to easily and reliably reach medical appointments is crucial for maintaining a sense of control and well-being. This is especially true for individuals undergoing treatment, who may experience fatigue, nausea, and other side effects that make driving difficult or impossible.

The Lung Cancer Score for Jerry City is not merely a numerical value; it is a reflection of the lived experiences of its residents. It highlights the critical link between **transportation** and **healthcare access**, emphasizing the need for community-based solutions that ensure all residents, regardless of their mobility or financial resources, can receive the timely and effective care they deserve. The journey to health should not be hampered by the challenges of getting there.