43611, Toledo, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43611, Toledo, Ohio is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

76.69 percent of residents in 43611 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.28 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Mercy St Vincent Medical Center with a distance of 3.86 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 43611

The journey to healthcare, especially for a diagnosis as serious as lung cancer, is a complex one. It's a journey marked by anxiety, appointments, and the critical need for timely and accessible medical care. This write-up analyzes the transportation landscape in ZIP Code 43611, assessing its impact on healthcare access for individuals facing the challenges of lung cancer. This analysis considers drive times, public transit options, and alternative transportation methods, providing a "Lung Cancer Score" to help residents understand the ease or difficulty of accessing crucial medical services. The goal is to illuminate the realities of transportation in 43611, allowing residents to make informed decisions regarding their health and well-being.

The 43611 ZIP Code, encompassing portions of Toledo, Ohio, presents a unique transportation profile. Its proximity to major roadways and a developing public transit system shapes its healthcare accessibility. For those considering moving to Toledo, understanding these transportation dynamics is paramount, especially when considering healthcare access. The ability to get to appointments, treatments, and follow-up care is a fundamental aspect of managing lung cancer, and the availability of reliable transportation directly impacts patient outcomes.

**Drive Time Dynamics: The Asphalt Arteries**

Driving remains a primary mode of transportation for many residents of 43611. The efficiency of this mode hinges on the proximity to major roadways and the prevalence of traffic congestion. Several major highways and roads are essential for accessing healthcare facilities. Interstate 75 (I-75) serves as a crucial north-south artery, providing direct access to major hospitals and medical centers in the Toledo area. The drive time to the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC), a significant healthcare provider, can vary depending on traffic conditions, but typically ranges from 15 to 25 minutes, depending on the specific location within 43611.

Another important route is the Anthony Wayne Trail, a key thoroughfare that provides access to downtown Toledo and several medical offices. Traffic on the Anthony Wayne Trail can be heavy during peak hours, potentially extending travel times. The drive to ProMedica Toledo Hospital, another major healthcare provider, via the Anthony Wayne Trail can take approximately 20 to 30 minutes, again subject to traffic. Local roads like Reynolds Road and Secor Road also play a crucial role, connecting residents to various clinics and specialist offices. The drive times on these roads are generally shorter, typically under 15 minutes, but can be affected by local traffic patterns.

The overall drive time assessment in 43611 reveals a mixed bag. While the presence of major highways offers relatively quick access to larger medical facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the potential for traffic congestion can present challenges. For individuals with mobility limitations or those unable to drive, this reliance on personal vehicles can be a significant barrier to healthcare access.

**Public Transit Pathways: Navigating the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA)**

Public transportation, specifically the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA), offers an alternative for residents of 43611. TARTA provides bus service throughout the Toledo area, including routes that serve the 43611 ZIP Code. Several bus routes are particularly relevant for accessing healthcare facilities. Route 2, for example, connects various points within 43611 to downtown Toledo, where several medical offices and the TARTA Transit Hub are located. Route 20 provides access to UTMC.

TARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and designated seating areas, making them accessible for individuals with disabilities. However, the frequency of service and the overall coverage of TARTA routes can be a limiting factor. Some areas within 43611 may have limited access to bus stops, requiring residents to walk a considerable distance to reach a bus stop. Furthermore, the travel time on public transit is often longer than driving, potentially adding to the burden of accessing healthcare.

The TARTA website and mobile app provide real-time information on bus schedules and route maps, allowing users to plan their trips effectively. The cost of a TARTA ride is relatively affordable, making it a viable option for those on a limited budget. However, the reliability of public transit, particularly during inclement weather, can be a concern.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Alternative Avenues**

Ride-share services, such as Uber and Lyft, have emerged as viable transportation options in 43611. These services offer on-demand transportation, providing a convenient alternative to driving or relying on public transit. The availability of ride-share services in 43611 is generally good, with relatively short wait times. The cost of ride-share services can vary depending on demand and distance, but it often falls between the cost of public transit and a taxi.

Medical transportation services also play a vital role in providing healthcare access for individuals with mobility limitations or those requiring specialized assistance. Several medical transport providers operate in the Toledo area, offering services such as non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), which includes wheelchair-accessible vehicles and stretcher services. These services are often covered by Medicaid or other insurance plans, making them accessible to a wider range of individuals.

Some medical transport providers operating in the Toledo area include, but are not limited to, CareRide and First Transit. These services are specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. The availability and cost of medical transport services can vary depending on the individual's needs and insurance coverage.

**Lung Cancer Score Considerations: A Holistic Assessment**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 43611 takes into account the various transportation factors discussed above. It considers drive times to major healthcare facilities, the availability and accessibility of public transit, and the presence of ride-share and medical transport options. The score also weighs the impact of traffic congestion, the frequency of public transit service, and the cost of transportation.

The score is not a single numerical value, but rather a comprehensive assessment that reflects the overall ease or difficulty of accessing healthcare in 43611. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the transportation system and provides insights into the challenges faced by individuals with lung cancer. The score serves as a tool for residents to understand the transportation landscape and make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

For individuals with lung cancer, the ability to access timely and consistent medical care is critical. The "Lung Cancer Score" emphasizes the importance of considering transportation as an integral part of the healthcare journey. It underscores the need for accessible, reliable, and affordable transportation options to ensure that all residents of 43611 can receive the care they need. The score is a reminder that healthcare access is not just about the availability of medical facilities, but also about the ability to get there.