43623, Toledo, Ohio Lung Cancer Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 43623, Toledo, Ohio is 70 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

85.20 percent of residents in 43623 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 5.11 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Promedica Toledo Hospital with a distance of 3.48 miles from the area.

## Lung Cancer Score: Navigating Healthcare in 43623

The journey to healthcare in ZIP code 43623, a community nestled within the vibrant tapestry of Toledo, Ohio, is a complex equation. Factors like transportation, healthcare access, and the availability of specialized medical care, particularly for a disease as critical as lung cancer, intertwine to form a Lung Cancer Score. This score reflects the ease or difficulty residents face in obtaining timely and effective treatment. Understanding these intricacies is crucial for residents, potential newcomers considering moving to Toledo, and policymakers striving to improve healthcare access.

The geography of 43623 dictates the primary mode of transportation: the automobile. Residents rely heavily on personal vehicles to navigate the network of highways and roads that connect them to healthcare facilities. The primary arteries are Interstate 75 (I-75) and the Anthony Wayne Trail (US-24), offering relatively swift access to major hospitals and cancer centers. However, peak traffic hours, particularly during the morning and evening commutes, can significantly extend drive times, potentially delaying critical medical appointments. The time spent on these roads directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

Beyond the major thoroughfares, local roads like Glendale Avenue, Byrne Road, and Reynolds Road serve as vital connectors. These routes, while offering more direct access to some clinics and smaller healthcare providers, are often subject to congestion and traffic lights, adding to the overall commute time. The condition of these roads, including potholes and inadequate lighting, further influences the safety and efficiency of transportation, indirectly impacting the Lung Cancer Score.

Public transit, while present, presents a less convenient option for many residents of 43623. The Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) operates several bus routes that serve the area. Route 2, for example, travels along Glendale Avenue, offering a connection to downtown Toledo and, consequently, to some major healthcare facilities. Route 19 provides service along Byrne Road, also offering access to medical offices. However, the frequency of these routes, especially during off-peak hours, may be limited.

Furthermore, the accessibility of TARTA buses is a crucial consideration. All TARTA buses are equipped with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) features, including wheelchair lifts and priority seating, ensuring that individuals with mobility limitations can utilize public transit. However, the distance from bus stops to medical facilities, and the potential need for transfers, can still pose challenges for patients undergoing treatment or experiencing mobility issues. The effectiveness of public transit directly affects the Lung Cancer Score.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer an alternative transportation option, particularly for those without personal vehicles or who find public transit challenging. The availability and cost of these services in 43623, however, can fluctuate depending on demand and time of day. During peak hours, or in areas with limited driver availability, wait times and fares may increase, potentially impacting the Lung Cancer Score, especially for patients needing frequent appointments.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, provide a specialized solution. Several companies operate in the Toledo area, offering non-emergency medical transportation. These services often cater to individuals with mobility limitations or those who require assistance getting to their appointments. The availability, cost, and reliability of these medical transportation services are crucial factors influencing the Lung Cancer Score, especially for patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Healthcare access in 43623 is further influenced by the location and specialization of healthcare providers. The University of Toledo Medical Center, located a relatively short drive from 43623, is a major healthcare provider offering comprehensive cancer care. ProMedica Toledo Hospital, also within a reasonable driving distance, is another significant healthcare resource. The availability of specialized oncologists, radiation therapists, and support services at these facilities directly impacts the Lung Cancer Score.

The proximity of specialized cancer centers, equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies, is paramount. The drive time to these facilities, often situated further away from residential areas, can significantly impact the Lung Cancer Score. Factors such as traffic, road conditions, and the availability of parking at these facilities all play a role.

The availability of support services, such as patient navigators, transportation assistance, and financial counseling, is also crucial. These services help patients navigate the complexities of cancer care, alleviating some of the burdens associated with treatment. The presence and accessibility of these support systems directly influence the Lung Cancer Score.

For individuals considering moving to Toledo, the Lung Cancer Score of a particular ZIP code is a significant factor. It's not just about the availability of healthcare facilities; it's about the ease with which residents can access those facilities. Understanding the transportation options, potential commute times, and the availability of support services is crucial for making an informed decision.

The Lung Cancer Score is not a static number. It is a dynamic reflection of the healthcare landscape in 43623. It is influenced by improvements in transportation infrastructure, the expansion of public transit services, the availability of ride-sharing options, and the presence of specialized medical transportation. It is also affected by the development of new healthcare facilities, the recruitment of specialized medical professionals, and the expansion of support services.

In conclusion, the Lung Cancer Score for 43623 is a complex metric that considers the interplay of transportation, healthcare access, and the availability of specialized cancer care. The reliance on personal vehicles, the limitations of public transit, the potential benefits of ride-sharing and medical transportation, and the location and specialization of healthcare providers all contribute to this score. For residents, potential newcomers, and policymakers, understanding these factors is essential for ensuring that individuals in 43623 have timely and effective access to the vital care they need. The continuous improvement of the transportation network and healthcare infrastructure is crucial for enhancing the Lung Cancer Score and improving the overall health and well-being of the community.