43569, Weston, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43569, Weston, Ohio is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

68.06 percent of residents in 43569 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 14.13 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Wood County Hospital with a distance of 8.57 miles from the area.

**Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in Weston, Ohio (ZIP Code 43569)**

Weston, Ohio, a charming village nestled in Wood County, presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for its residents, particularly concerning healthcare access. This analysis, focusing on ZIP code 43569, aims to provide a comprehensive "Lung Cancer Score" – a nuanced assessment of transportation options and their impact on timely access to lung cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment. This is vital information for anyone considering moving to Weston or for current residents navigating their healthcare needs. The score will consider drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transportation services, all crucial elements in the fight against this devastating disease.

The foundation of this score rests on the premise that early detection and treatment are paramount in improving lung cancer outcomes. Therefore, the ease and speed with which a patient can reach a healthcare facility specializing in lung cancer care are critical factors. The score will reflect the efficiency of the available transportation infrastructure, ultimately influencing a resident’s ability to receive prompt and appropriate medical attention.

**Driving the Distance: Highways and Byways**

For residents of Weston, the automobile remains the primary mode of transportation for accessing healthcare. The most direct route to specialized lung cancer care often involves traveling to larger medical centers in Bowling Green, Toledo, or even farther afield.

The primary artery connecting Weston to the wider region is **US-6**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving east on US-6, residents can reach Bowling Green in approximately 15 to 20 minutes. This route provides access to Wood County Hospital, which may offer initial screening services and primary care physicians.

Further travel to Toledo, a city boasting comprehensive cancer centers, requires a journey of about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic. This typically involves connecting to **I-75 North** from US-6. While this highway offers a relatively smooth ride, rush hour congestion, especially around Toledo, can significantly impact travel times. The **Ohio Turnpike (I-80/I-90)**, though a toll road, provides a faster alternative for accessing hospitals in the Toledo area, potentially shaving off precious minutes.

Navigating the local roads is also a consideration. Residents may need to utilize smaller county roads like **OH-235** or **OH-65** to reach local doctor’s offices or pharmacies. These roads, while offering scenic views, can be subject to weather-related delays, particularly during winter months. The condition of these roads and their impact on the overall travel time is a factor in the final score.

**Public Transit: A Limited Network**

Public transportation options in Weston and the surrounding area are limited, presenting a significant challenge for those without personal vehicles. The Wood County Committee on Aging (WCCOA) provides transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This service, while valuable, requires advance booking and may not be readily available for urgent medical appointments.

The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) offers some limited routes that extend into the broader region, but these routes are infrequent and do not directly serve Weston. The absence of a robust public transit system necessitates a reliance on personal vehicles or alternative transportation options for most residents. The lack of readily accessible public transit, especially for those needing frequent medical appointments, significantly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

TARTA does offer ADA-accessible buses, which is a crucial consideration for those with mobility challenges. However, the limited route coverage and infrequent service make it difficult to rely on this option for regular healthcare appointments.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in the Weston area, offering a potentially convenient alternative to driving, especially for those unable to drive themselves. However, the availability of these services can be unpredictable, particularly during off-peak hours or in inclement weather. The cost of ride-sharing can also be a barrier for some residents, especially when frequent trips to medical facilities are required.

Specialized medical transportation services are available, primarily for patients requiring assistance with mobility or those who are unable to drive. These services, often provided by private companies, can transport patients to and from medical appointments. However, these services often come with a higher price tag and require advance booking, making them less suitable for urgent situations.

Several medical transport brands serve the area, including but not limited to, LifeCare Ambulance, and many private companies. These services are crucial for patients who cannot drive themselves or lack access to other transportation options. However, the cost and availability of these services must be factored into the overall healthcare access picture.

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

The Lung Cancer Score for Weston, Ohio (43569) reflects the interplay of these transportation factors. The score will be influenced by the relatively short drive times to Bowling Green, but it will be negatively impacted by the limited public transit options and the potential challenges associated with ride-sharing and medical transport.

The score will also consider the proximity of specialized cancer centers in Toledo and the ease of access to those facilities via **I-75** and the **Ohio Turnpike**. The presence of Wood County Hospital and its screening capabilities will also be a positive factor. The score will reflect the importance of early detection and the need for timely access to specialized care.

The final score will be a dynamic measure, reflecting the evolving transportation landscape and the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access in the region. It is a tool designed to inform residents, potential newcomers, and healthcare providers about the challenges and opportunities associated with navigating the healthcare system in Weston, Ohio. This score is intended to be a valuable resource for individuals considering moving to Weston, allowing them to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. The goal is to provide a realistic assessment of the transportation barriers and facilitators that impact the ability to receive timely and effective lung cancer care.