43613, Toledo, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43613, Toledo, Ohio is 74 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

84.71 percent of residents in 43613 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 3.93 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Promedica Toledo Hospital with a distance of 2.23 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in ZIP Code 43613

Considering a move to Toledo, Ohio, and specifically ZIP Code 43613? This analysis delves into the crucial aspect of healthcare access, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for individuals needing lung cancer treatment. We'll explore the complexities of transportation, a critical determinant of timely and effective care. This "Lung Cancer Score" considers drive times, public transit options, ride-sharing, and medical transport services, providing a comprehensive picture of navigating healthcare within this area.

The ability to reach medical facilities promptly is paramount for lung cancer patients. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improved outcomes. Delays due to transportation issues can significantly impact a patient's prognosis and quality of life. This assessment aims to provide a realistic understanding of the transportation landscape, empowering potential residents to make informed decisions.

**Drive Times: The Road to Treatment**

The primary healthcare providers for lung cancer in the Toledo area are concentrated in the city's core. From the heart of 43613, a drive to the University of Toledo Medical Center (UTMC) typically involves navigating **US-24** and **South Reynolds Road**. Expect a drive time of approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Morning and evening commutes can significantly extend this time, especially during peak hours.

For patients needing specialized care, the drive to ProMedica Toledo Hospital, often requiring treatment at the Hickman Cancer Center, involves using **US-24** and connecting onto **I-475/US-23**. This journey typically takes 25-35 minutes, again influenced by traffic. The distance, while manageable, necessitates careful planning, especially for those undergoing frequent treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Access to the Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center, another major healthcare provider, involves traveling on **US-24** and navigating city streets. This trip could take 20-30 minutes, contingent on traffic. These drive times underscore the importance of considering proximity to these key facilities when choosing a residence within 43613.

**Public Transit: Navigating the City**

The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) provides public transportation within the city. While offering a valuable alternative to driving, public transit accessibility in 43613 requires careful consideration. Several bus routes serve the area, including routes 2, 20, and 22. However, the frequency of these routes and the travel times to major medical centers can be a significant barrier.

Route 2, for instance, offers a direct connection to UTMC, but the travel time can exceed an hour, including potential wait times at transfer points. Route 20 and 22 provide access to downtown Toledo, requiring transfers to reach hospitals. TARTA buses are equipped with ADA-accessible features, including ramps and priority seating for individuals with disabilities. However, the overall travel time and the potential for multiple transfers can be challenging for patients undergoing cancer treatment, who may experience fatigue and other treatment-related side effects.

**Ride-Sharing and Medical Transport: Alternative Options**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer another transportation option. These services provide door-to-door transportation, eliminating the need for transfers and potentially reducing travel time. However, the cost of ride-sharing can accumulate quickly, especially for frequent appointments. Availability can also be a concern, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited ride-sharing presence.

Medical transportation services, such as First Transit, provide specialized transportation for individuals with medical needs. These services often offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers. While they can be a reliable option, they typically require advance booking and may have limitations regarding coverage and service areas. The cost of medical transport can also be a significant factor, often covered by insurance but subject to co-pays and deductibles.

**Healthcare Access: A Complex Equation**

The "Lung Cancer Score" for 43613 reflects a mixed bag of transportation options. While driving offers the most direct route to healthcare facilities, traffic and distance can pose challenges. Public transit provides an affordable alternative but is limited by travel times and route frequency. Ride-sharing and medical transport services offer convenient options but come with associated costs and availability constraints.

**Moving to Toledo: A Thoughtful Consideration**

For individuals considering moving to Toledo, and specifically 43613, the availability of reliable transportation is a critical factor. The proximity to major healthcare providers is essential, but the ability to reach those providers efficiently is equally important. The "Lung Cancer Score" highlights the need to carefully evaluate the transportation options available, considering individual needs and preferences.

The decision to move to a new location is complex, especially when dealing with a serious illness like lung cancer. This analysis emphasizes the need for a comprehensive assessment of transportation infrastructure, factoring in drive times, public transit accessibility, ride-sharing options, and medical transport services. This knowledge allows potential residents to make informed choices, ensuring they can access the necessary healthcare services with minimal disruption.

**Conclusion: Prioritizing Patient Well-being**

Ultimately, the "Lung Cancer Score" for 43613 underscores the importance of prioritizing patient well-being. The ability to reach medical appointments promptly and reliably is a fundamental aspect of healthcare access. While 43613 offers a range of transportation options, each has its limitations. Prospective residents should carefully weigh these factors, considering their individual needs and circumstances, to ensure they can navigate the healthcare landscape effectively. This detailed assessment provides a starting point for understanding the complexities of transportation and healthcare access, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare journey in Toledo.