43606, Toledo, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43606, Toledo, Ohio is 72 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

86.30 percent of residents in 43606 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 2.31 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Promedica Toledo Hospital with a distance of 0.48 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 43606

The journey to healthcare, particularly for those facing a lung cancer diagnosis, is fraught with challenges. In ZIP Code 43606, encompassing a significant portion of central Toledo, Ohio, these challenges are amplified by geographical constraints and disparities in transportation access. This analysis, presented as a "Lung Cancer Score," aims to illuminate the intricacies of accessing vital medical services, offering a comprehensive understanding of the transportation landscape and its impact on healthcare access for residents. Considering a move to Toledo? Understanding this score is essential.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a single number but a multifaceted assessment, considering drive times, public transit availability, ride-share options, and medical transport services. Each component contributes to a holistic view of the ease or difficulty of reaching critical healthcare facilities, ultimately influencing the quality of life for those battling lung cancer. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the transportation barriers and opportunities that exist within the 43606 ZIP code.

**Drive Time Dynamics: Navigating the Roads**

For many residents, the primary mode of transportation is the personal vehicle. The drive time to healthcare facilities in and around 43606 is heavily influenced by traffic patterns and the proximity of major roadways. The University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC), a prominent healthcare provider, is accessible via several routes. Heading east on Bancroft Street, a major thoroughfare, provides a direct route, typically taking 15-20 minutes, assuming moderate traffic.

Alternatively, residents can utilize the Anthony Wayne Trail, a key artery connecting the south and central Toledo. This route offers a quicker journey, particularly during non-peak hours, potentially reducing drive time to UTMC to 10-15 minutes. However, traffic congestion during rush hour can significantly extend travel times. The use of I-75, while offering high-speed access, may require navigating on-ramps and off-ramps, adding to the overall travel duration.

Other healthcare providers, such as ProMedica Toledo Hospital, are located further north, requiring longer drive times. Reaching this facility necessitates traveling on major roads like Monroe Street or Central Avenue, with drive times ranging from 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The presence of stoplights and intersections along these routes can further impede travel efficiency.

For those residing in the westernmost parts of 43606, accessing healthcare facilities may require navigating through residential streets and utilizing smaller arterial roads, potentially increasing drive times and adding to the complexity of the journey. The availability of parking at these facilities is another crucial consideration, as limited parking can add to the overall stress and time commitment.

**Public Transit: A Network of Challenges**

The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides public transportation services within the city. Several bus routes serve the 43606 ZIP code, offering a potentially viable alternative to driving, especially for those without personal vehicles or facing mobility limitations. The routes, however, are not without their challenges.

Route 2, a crucial line, traverses through the heart of 43606, providing access to various destinations, including some healthcare facilities. Route 19 also plays a role, connecting the area to other parts of the city. However, the frequency of these routes, particularly during evenings and weekends, can be limited, leading to longer wait times and potential disruptions in access to care.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility is a critical consideration for individuals with mobility impairments. TARTA buses are equipped with ramps and other features to accommodate passengers with disabilities. However, the availability of accessible stops and the overall accessibility of the transit system within the 43606 area require careful evaluation.

The efficiency of public transit is also impacted by the location of bus stops relative to healthcare facilities. Walking distances from bus stops to medical appointments can be significant, posing a challenge for individuals with limited mobility or those undergoing treatment that may affect their physical stamina. The integration of public transit with healthcare facilities is an area that requires improvement.

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

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer another transportation option, particularly for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle or prefer not to drive. The availability of these services within 43606 is generally good, with relatively short wait times. However, the cost of ride-share services can be a significant barrier for some individuals, especially those with limited financial resources.

Medical transport services, specifically designed to cater to individuals with medical needs, provide a crucial lifeline for those who are unable to drive or utilize public transit. Several medical transport providers operate in the Toledo area, offering services such as wheelchair-accessible transportation and stretcher transport. However, the availability of these services and the associated costs can vary significantly.

The coordination between healthcare providers and medical transport services is essential to ensure that patients can seamlessly access their appointments. Clear communication and efficient scheduling are critical to minimize delays and ensure that patients arrive at their appointments on time. The integration of these services into the overall healthcare ecosystem is a crucial aspect of improving healthcare access.

**The Lung Cancer Score: A Synthesis**

The Lung Cancer Score for 43606 reflects the complex interplay of these transportation factors. Drive times, while offering the quickest access for some, are subject to traffic congestion and parking limitations. Public transit, while providing an affordable alternative, faces challenges in frequency, accessibility, and walkability. Ride-share services offer convenience but can be costly. Medical transport services provide specialized support but may have limited availability and varying costs.

The score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment, acknowledging the evolving transportation landscape. It highlights the need for ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access for residents of 43606. This includes advocating for increased public transit frequency, enhancing ADA accessibility, promoting affordable ride-share options, and ensuring the availability and affordability of medical transport services.

Furthermore, the score underscores the importance of community-based initiatives that address transportation barriers. This could include partnerships between healthcare providers and transportation providers, educational programs to inform residents about available transportation options, and advocacy efforts to improve infrastructure and funding for public transit.

Ultimately, the Lung Cancer Score serves as a call to action, urging stakeholders to prioritize the transportation needs of individuals facing lung cancer. By addressing the transportation challenges, we can improve healthcare access, enhance the quality of life, and support the well-being of residents in 43606. Considering a move to Toledo? This score is a vital piece of information.